EATING disorders may be associated with social media use among young adults, according to a systematic review that found consistent links between online engagement and increased eating disorder symptomatology.
Researchers conducted a comprehensive review to evaluate current evidence on the relationship between social media use and eating disorders in individuals aged 18–30 years. The review focused exclusively on studies that explicitly investigated eating disorders as diagnostic conditions in relation to social media use.
Evidence Points to Significant Association
A systematic literature search of Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed identified 630 records. Following screening and eligibility assessment, seven studies met the inclusion criteria.
Most included studies used cross sectional designs, while one adopted an experimental approach. Six of the seven studies reported a positive association between social media use and eating disorder symptoms or diagnoses. Only one study found no significant relationship between social media engagement and eating disorder outcomes.
Across the included studies, researchers identified recurring patterns linking social media use to greater symptom severity and adverse psychological outcomes. The findings suggest that social media may play a role in both the development and maintenance of eating disorders among young adults.
Appearance Focused Content Raises Concerns
The review highlighted appearance focused content as a particularly important factor. Exposure to content promoting idealised body images, including so called thinspiration and fitspiration material, was consistently associated with more severe eating disorder symptoms and related psychological difficulties.
Problematic patterns of social media use also emerged as a recurring theme across the evidence base. Individuals reporting unhealthy or excessive engagement with social media platforms appeared more likely to experience eating disorder related symptoms.
Need For Further Research
Despite the overall consistency of the findings, the authors noted important limitations. The number of eligible studies was small, and substantial variation existed in study design, participant characteristics, and methods used to assess social media use and eating disorders.
As a result, the review cannot establish causality. However, the evidence suggests that social media use may represent a relevant risk factor for eating disorders in young adults.
Reference
Fomínová V et al. The association between social media use and eating disorders in young adults: a systematic review. J Eat Disord. 2026; 2026 May 23. doi: 10.1186/s40337-026-01653-3.
Featured image: Kiattisak on Adobe Stock.
