How TikTok targets teenagers to promote unhealthy food

When it comes to social media, it is not always easy to survive the jungle of content. A recent study finds that unhealthy food brands ask young social media users to promote their products.

Young consumers are becoming unhealthy food brand ambassadors

According to a study published by BMJ Global Health, TikTok is an emerging source of unhealthy food marketing, including that created by users at the instigation of brands. Remember that over a third of TikTok daily users in the United States are kids aged 14 or younger. Young consumers promote not only the company but also the unhealthy diet related to some products. The result is that kids are encouraged to consume unhealthy food rather than healthier options. Researchers say 87% of a major food brand's marketing comes from videos, with another 25% relying on celebrities and influencers. The University of Connecticut also confirms that fast food companies spent 5 billion dollars on marketing in 2019. 

Switching to a healthy diet

Let's be clear, it is not easy! Teenagers are continually targeted by these social media messages, but there is also a lot of peer pressure. That's why it is crucial to empower teens to learn how to eat better- how to nourish the body and spirit through a healthy, balanced diet. It can have an incredible effect on their health. The benefits of a healthy diet include more than just controlling body weight. It promotes healthy growth and can stabilize teens' moods, improve their mental functions, and increase their overall health.

Encouraging healthier habits

Here are some tips to encourage healthier eating routines. First, it is crucial to involve the children in explaining why it is important for them to eat healthy foods like vegetables. You should always have healthy snacks available for your children. Prepare fruit and vegetables and avoid having sugary drinks and soda at home. Do not overserve! Try to limit the size of their portions. Last but not least, it's also essential to stay active!

Try to cook more at home

If you cook your meals at home, you will have more control over the ingredients your kid will eat. Let's talk about their plate. Make most of your meal vegetables and fruits. Indeed, ½ of our plate should be vegetables and fruits; ¼ proteins, like fish, poultry, beans, and nuts (limit red meat). ¼ whole grains like whole wheat, barley, quinoa, and brown rice. Try whole wheat pasta. Magnifico, for example, has an excellent selection of whole wheat pasta and brown rice. It is a healthy choice but also very tasty. Always choose healthy extra virgin olive oil. Olive oil is truly one of the most powerful allies of your health. We recommend that you always keep an eye on quality. Italian oils, for example, are among the best in the world. Another tip is to always use raw oil. That way, its benefits remain intact. Finally, drink water or coffee and tea, but definitely avoid sodas and sugary drinks.