In today’s highly digital world, social media keeps us engaged, connected and in-the-know. It permeates every corner of our lives, and weight management isn’t any different. Still, there’s a fine line between using these platforms as a tool and getting sucked into the social vortex.
Can social media really help you reach your weight and health goals, or is it like falling down a rabbit hole the moment you log on? In this blog post, we take a look at some of the pros and cons of instant online connections and how they can shape our journey with weight.
Social Media and Your Weight
Advantages — Inspiration, Support, Helpful Resources
Social media can be a wellspring of knowledge, support and inspiration. Whether you’re looking to connect with other people who have “been there, done that” or you need help with a specific challenge, various social channels can match you with people, products, services and ideas to empower you. Check-out some of these key social media advantages:
- Recipe ideas, meal-prep planning tips and fitness inspiration/how-to’s
- Health professionals who want to share their knowledge and advice
- Sharing of success stories that encourage and motivate you
- Private groups and forums to talk about challenges and concerns
- Recommendations for local health services, products and activities
Disadvantages — False Info, Comparisons, Time Management
Unfortunately, social media is far from a perfect tool and often blurs the line between reality and cyber reality. Social platforms can also make it tough to distinguish fact from fiction, and they sometimes run the risk of capturing a little too much of our time and attention. Here a few factors to be watchful of when it comes to your social media engagement:
- Weight-loss methods that are gimmicky or unproven
- Medical advice that isn’t offered by a health professional
- The “bandwagon” effect — trying something because everyone else is
- Feeling pressured to lose weight — too much or too quickly
- Harshly comparing your journey to someone else’s
- Too many hours spent online and not in the “present moment”
Social Media: The Bottom Line
In the end, social media is a valuable tool if used correctly and in moderation. It has the potential to inspire, support and guide you along a journey that you’re not alone in walking, and its ability to connect you with others on the same path is priceless. However, if you’re an avid social media user, keep tabs on your online habits and make sure you’re not buying in to any of the bullets we listed under “Disadvantages.” It’s all about striking the right balance!
