What’s in and out: Food trends and body positivity in 2024
Have you ever scrolled through TikTok or Instagram and counted the number of accounts that glorify certain body types or eating patterns? Diet culture can be sneaky, and many people don’t even realize they are being fed negative messages about eating habits and body image. Years of internalizing these messages can lead to disordered eating habits or even eating disorders, which more than 1 million Canadians currently live with.
We spoke with Laura Davis, Registered Dietitian in St. Joe’s Eating Disorders Program to learn how social media can impact our relationships to our bodies and food, and tangible ways you can quash sneaky diet culture messages.
What’s out
Food trends like Girl Dinner and What I Eat in a Day
Although not always the intention, trends like these often promote undereating. Many Girl Dinner videos are really just snacks, and What I Eat in a Days are just a snapshot. Remember- social media shows what that person wants you to see- not necessarily what they do in real life.
Cleanses and detoxes
Research shows these are ineffective and can actually lead to more serious side effects such as digestive upset, dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Our bodies have all the equipment needed to remove any “toxins.” Trust that your body is doing all it needs to.
Following celebrities and accounts that promote diet culture
You may not even realize the accounts you follow are doing this. Look out for influencers judging themselves or others based on their bodies, villainizing specific foods or food groups, or talking openly about dieting. Start following accounts that speak to your values and interests and don’t leave you feeling worse about yourself.
What’s in
Following more body positive accounts
Look for influencers and accounts that talk about body acceptance, and display body inclusivity (think varying body sizes, shapes, ages, skin color, abilities and so on). Follow accounts that focus on improving your relationship with food and your body rather than those that promote dieting, cleanses, or food trends. Constant exposure to diet culture messaging can lead to disordered eating patterns and even eating disorders.
Comparing our eating habits and preferences to others’
Our bodies are all unique and have different needs based on a variety of factors, such as age, activity level and body size. This may mean that you require more food than the influencers or celebrities you follow, and that is perfectly normal! Ultimately, aim for balanced meals that incorporate variety from different food groups, is culturally appropriate and that will be enjoyable to YOU!
Questioning the “facts”
Much of what’s on social media is not based on scientific evidence. Be mindful of the source of the information you are consuming. Look for accounts that have experts who are certified/registered in the content they are sharing. It’s probably not the best idea to take nutrition information from a pop star!
Our key takeaway: There is no room for guilt and shame when it comes to eating in 2024!
Where to go for help if you think you may have disordered eating or an eating disorder:
See your family doctor. They can provide resources and referrals to appropriate programs in the community if necessary, including the Eating Disorders Program at St. Joe’s.
If you don’t have a family doctor, many walk-in clinics will also refer patients to programs.
Other options:
- If you are part of a family health team, many have in-house dietitians and mental health counsellors you can speak with
- Body Brave, a Hamilton organization that supports people in their eating disorder recovery, offers programs and support
- Start following body and food positive accounts on social media: