She added that social media is partly to blame, as countless influencers promote unverified diets without disclosing that their posts are paid advertisements or that the methods lack scientific support.
“Too many young people think health is about extremes,” Dr. Morris continued. “In reality, true wellness is about balance — not punishment.”
The Role of Social Media in Dangerous Diet Trends
Platforms like TikTok and Instagram have become breeding grounds for viral diet challenges. From “liquid-only” cleanses to “10-day detoxes,” these trends often promise rapid transformations with little to no medical backing. They target vulnerable audiences — especially young women — who may already feel pressured to look a certain way.
Many followers are unaware that photos and videos online are often filtered or staged, creating unrealistic beauty standards. Influencers, rewarded with sponsorships and engagement, rarely mention the physical risks of their routines.
