Exploring the Impact of Social Media on Dietary Decision-Making and Nutritional Patterns
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.63062/trt/WR25.052Keywords:
Media Influence, Food Choices, Nutrition, Advertising, Public Health, Social MediaAbstract
The study set out to determine the extent to which the media, and its practitioners, context, diet mentalities and emotions affect an individual's food choice and nutrition through social perceptions. In this survey, which was conducted in Rawalpindi and Islamabad, Pakistan, data was collected from (n=223) respondents, both male and female, using purposive sampling. The quantitative method was applied alongside. Analysis of the data provided insight into how media strategies could be reshaped to promote healthy eating habits and inform public health policies. It was found that people's eating habits are adversely influenced by advertisements, cultural practices, and information dissemination, and such practices, in turn, adversely affect food and general nutrition. Rather, food products are marketed for ease of use and attractiveness, and in turn, the use of processed and unhealthy food becomes commonplace. Also, the media has the potential to induce healthy eating practices and educate people on nutrition. All things considered, this research advances our knowledge of the significant influence that the media has on dietary preferences and nutrition, opening the door to more successful interventions and laws that will lead to better public health outcomes.
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