Whom you follow on social media may play a role in whether you make or break your health and weight loss goals. Getty Images
You probably already know that how you spend your time on social media has the power to affect your mood and potentially your outlook on life. But research suggests it may influence how you choose to fill your plate, as well. A study published in June 2020 in Appetite suggested that Facebook users’ eating and drinking habits reflected what they thought their Facebook peers were consuming. Participants who completed a survey were found to be eating an extra fifth of a portion of fruits and vegetables for every portion they thought their Facebook peers ate. Researchers also observed a less-desirable effect: For every three portions of energy-dense snacks and sugary drinks they believed their Facebook peers were consuming, they enjoyed an extra portion themselves. The most current U.S. dietary guidelines recommend a diet that prioritizes fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, low- or nonfat foods, and unsweetened beverages over processed food, sweets, refined carbohydrates, saturated fat, and sweetened drinks. Following this eating approach may lower your risk of diet-related diseases such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes, says the agency. If you are a Black American, you are more likely to develop these conditions than your white peers, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). RELATED: Black Health Facts Matter Statistics This is where these nutrition experts and bloggers come in. They understand the power of social media to spread their message that healthy eating can help you look and feel great. Some focus on plant-based eating, some promote body positivity along with the recipes they share, and one is focused on eating and thriving while living with diabetes. All are of African descent and seek to inspire everyone who visits their Instagram pages or websites.