Exploring the Influence of Social Media–Driven Nutrition Misinformation on Dietary Practices: A Qualitative Study

The use of social media like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube has changed how young adults get nutrition information. But uncontrolled content usually propagates false information that can be applicable to food habits and well-being. Objectives: To study the effects of social media on the dietary beliefs and practices of young adults in Pakistan, the prevalent forms of nutrition misinformation are to be identified, and how users rate the information they find online and react to influencer recommendations. Methods: Miniature thematic analysis qualitative examination was utilized in 20 young adults (19-32 years old) enlisted into the University of the Punjab, Lahore. The university was chosen since it is a symbol of a number of students whose population is quite large, and due to its diversity, it enabled access to young adults who are active social media users. Semi-structured in-depth interviews were carried out either face to face or through the internet, tape recorded, and transcribed word for word. The thematic method of data analysis was based on the six-step method by Braun and Clarke. Results: Five major themes emerged. Participants often used the advice of influencers on nutrition, evaluated credibility with popularity but not evidence, and were in doubt after receiving conflicting information. Purchasing high-dose vitamin D supplements without a previous diagnosis of vitamin D deficiency had been reported another time. Conclusions: Social media has a tremendous influence on dietary beliefs and behaviors by transmitting nutrition misinformation amongst young adults in Pakistan.