The impact of social networks on the diet of female bodybuilders

Abstract

Introduction: The impact of social media on the perception of diet among female bodybuilders has become a relevant phenomenon, given the growing influence of these platforms on everyday life. Women use these platforms to seek dietary inspiration, however, along with access to useful information, there is also the risk of exposure to unrealistic body standards and extreme diets that can compromise health and well-being. Aim: To assess the impact of social networks on women's food choices and body perceptions, taking into account aesthetic pressure and social comparison. Materials and methods: The research was exploratory and quantitative in nature, using an online questionnaire applied to a sample of 28 women aged between 18 and 30. Results: The majority of participants (60%) reported following digital influencers and/or nutrition experts and/or nutritionists, 82.1% felt influenced by social networks in their food choices, 60.7% reported feeling pressure to follow dietary patterns promoted online and 53.6% compared their own meals with posts on social networks. Conclusion: Analysis of the data suggests that while social media can offer useful information on healthy eating, it also promotes unrealistic aesthetic standards that can result in harmful eating behaviors. The findings reinforce the need for a critical eye on the content consumed on social media and the importance of professional guidance to avoid the negative effects of aesthetic pressure and social comparison on women's food choices and well-being.