Digital Misinformation on Nutrition
How Social Media Spreads Dangerous Diet Myths
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.62596/eir.snq1m873Keywords:
Digital misinformation, Nutrition myths, Social media influenceAbstract
This essay examines the pervasive issue of digital misinformation on nutrition spreading through social media platforms among Filipinos, particularly the youth. It highlights how viral diet myths—such as extreme calorie restriction and unproven “miracle” supplements—pose significant physical and psychological health risks. The paper underscores the challenges in distinguishing credible information from falsehoods and stresses the urgent need for enhanced media literacy education, stricter regulatory measures, and proactive dissemination of evidence-based nutrition advice by trusted sources to mitigate the harmful effects of misinformation in the Philippines.
References
Balela, M. R., & Lagman, R. A. (2020). Nutritional implications of intermittent fasting: A review from a Filipino perspective. Philippine Journal of Nutrition, 75(1).
David, C. C., Perez, M. A., & Reyes, R. M. (2021). Social media influence on body image dissatisfaction among Filipino adolescents. Asia Pacific Journal of Public Health, 33(4), 474–481.
Department of Education (DepEd). (2023). Media literacy integration in the K-12 curriculum: A step towards informed learners. Manila, Philippines: DepEd.
Department of Health. (2022). Viral diet trends and health risks in the Philippines: A public health advisory. Manila, Philippines: DOH.
Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Philippines. (2023). Warning against misleading health claims on social media. Manila, Philippines: FDA.
Philippine Statistics Authority. (2021). Social media usage and health information seeking behavior among Filipino youth. Manila, Philippines: PSA.
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