The relationship between social media use and dietary choices among young adults in Southern California

Purpose This study explored how social media influences dietary choices and perceptions of nutrition information among young adults. Design/methodology/approach A cross-sectional study involving a total of 360 students aged 18–24 years from a mid-sized, minority-serving university in Southern California. Participants responded to a 23-question survey assessing demographic information, social media habits and attitudes toward nutrition-related content. Pearson correlation analyses were used to evaluate associations between social media use and dietary behaviors. Findings Most respondents identified as female (n = 314, 75.5%), of which 86.3% (n = 341) were between the ages of 18 and 24 years. Approximately 44% of respondents reported that health and fitness content on social media motivated them to adopt healthier habits, with recipe and meal preparation content cited as most influential (83.7%). Significant positive correlations were observed between following nutrition accounts and trying new diet trends (r = 0.283, p < 0.001), feeling pressured to change one’s diet or appearance (r = 0.207, p < 0.001) and confusion about healthy eating (r = 0.104, p = 0.050). A moderate correlation was found between frequent exposure to influencer content and attempts to follow new diets (r = 0.534, p < 0.001). Additionally, a negative correlation emerged between time spent viewing nutrition-related content and confidence in its accuracy (r = −0.250, p < 0.001), suggesting increased skepticism with greater exposure. Research limitations/implications One limitation of this research is the cross-sectional design. This research design does not allow cause and effect to be determined. Second, since the data were self-reported, recall bias may have altered participants’ responses. Third, the survey used was not validated, which may have affected its validity and reliability. Lastly, the study focused primarily on college students between the ages of 18–24 and was restricted to a single university, which may reduce the generalizability of these results. Practical implications These findings highlight the need for enhanced media literacy and greater visibility of qualified nutrition professionals online to promote credible, evidence-based information and support healthier decision-making. Social implications Social media serves as both a motivator and a source of confusion regarding dietary behaviors among young adults. Originality/value More nutrition professionals promoting evidence-based information online can help mitigate confusion, debunk myths, and use social media as a tool to spread nutritional awareness and promote healthier eating habits on a larger scale.