TikTok Banned A Popular Influencer For Promoting "Eating Disorders"
"Weight is a touchy topic, but that’s what the viewers want"
TikTok recently banned Liv Schmidt, a 22-year-old fitness influencer, for violating community guidelines, labeling her content as "dangerous and harmful." Schmidt had garnered nearly 700,000 followers, predominantly teenage girls, with videos centered around extreme dieting tips.
Her content focused on promoting an ultra-thin physique, often at the expense of health, which raised concerns among health experts and viewers alike. Despite these issues, Schmidt denies causing harm, arguing that she was simply catering to her audience's desires.
"Weight is a touchy topic, but that’s what the viewers want," Schmidt stated in a recent interview. She defends her content as a reflection of personal preference.
However, it is evident that her background contradicts her authority on such matters. She is not a certified health or fitness expert, but rather a coordinator for a private family office in New York.
Critics argue that influencers like Schmidt, who lack professional qualifications, cannot discuss healthy diets because they lack the proper knowledge. They could mislead impressionable audiences, particularly young girls, into unhealthy behaviors.
As TikTok cracks down on harmful content, Schmidt’s case highlights the ethical responsibility of influencers in shaping public perceptions of body image and health.
A fitness influencer was banned from TikTok for encouraging "disordered eating"
InstagramExperts claim that her content was steering young girls toward anorexia
TikTok"Lectins are making you fat"
One of her popular series, titled "What I Eat in a Day to Stay Skinny as Someone Who Works a 9 to 5," showcased a diet consisting of a protein bar, a small piece of bread, a bowl of pasta, and a couple of bites of ice cream, totaling just 800 calories.
Despite experts warning that adult women should not consume less than 1,600 calories per day, her followers continue to defend her advice, even after she was banned from the platform.
She defended her content by claiming that maintaining a thin figure was a personal choice
TikTok
Understanding Social Media's Impact
Social media platforms, like TikTok, can significantly influence young minds, especially during formative years. Dr. Jean Twenge, a psychology professor at San Diego State University, highlights the correlation between social media usage and increased rates of anxiety and depression among teens.
Her research suggests that exposure to idealized body images can lead to unhealthy comparisons, ultimately impacting self-esteem and body image. Parents and educators should encourage open dialogues about media consumption, aiming to foster critical thinking about online content.
Navigating Mental Health Challenges
As adolescents navigate the complexities of identity and self-worth, mental health support is paramount. Experts suggest that schools implement mental health programs that encompass discussions about body image and self-esteem.
Dr. Tina Payne Bryson, a child development expert, advocates for creating safe spaces where children can express their feelings. Integrating emotional literacy into school curriculums can provide students with the tools they need to cope with societal pressures and develop a healthy self-image.
Despite her widespread popularity, TikTok chose to shut down her account
TikTok decided to shut down her account for violating their community guidelines, particularly the Mental and Behavioral Health rules, which prohibit the promotion of "disordered eating."
However, her followers switched to Instagram after her TikTok account was deleted and still describe her content as "helpful" and "inspirational." Critics argue that it encourages dangerous behaviors, especially among women and teenage girls who are particularly vulnerable to issues surrounding weight and self-esteem.
Schmidt expressed confusion and frustration over her account being banned
She says she had not received any prior warnings about violating body image policies. She insisted that her intention was to "build something authentic" and that her content was not meant to harm anyone.
According to Schmidt, her advice was geared toward professional women with sedentary jobs. "For me, it was easier to reduce 300 calories from food than to burn them through exercise, especially with a demanding job and limited free time," she explained.
Instagram
Schmidt defended her diet advice as well
She stated that it was more balanced and less restrictive compared to popular diets like the "keto" or "carnivore" diets, which remain allowed on the platform despite their limitations. "I think my success comes from not eliminating any specific foods," she explained.
"I’m not dairy-free, vegan, or gluten-free. I’m not obsessed with health." Instead of accepting her ban, Schmidt created a new account with a more provocative tagline: "Saving America from Obesity One Person at a Time."
However, this account was quickly removed as well. Experts caution that just 10 minutes of exposure to weight loss content on TikTok can negatively impact women's self-esteem, urging the platform to take stronger measures.
Instagram
Experts point out that a hallmark of pro-ana movements is the formation of exclusive "support groups," which often act as spaces for sharing extreme dieting methods, exchanging tips on inducing vomiting or using laxatives, and even advising on how to hide anorexia symptoms from family and doctors.
Schmidt ran one such group called the "Skinny Group Community Chat," a subscription-based service where her Instagram followers paid $9.99 per month to discuss their weight-loss journeys. While some celebrated her removal from social media, others were disappointed.
The followers argue that her "skinny girl" content was no more harmful than "fat acceptance" messages
Instagram
Health experts consistently warn against the dangers of promoting extreme dieting practices. According to Dr. Mark Hyman, a functional medicine expert, fad diets can lead to nutritional deficiencies and long-term health issues.
He advocates for a balanced approach to nutrition that emphasizes whole foods and sustainable habits rather than quick fixes. Parents should discuss healthy eating habits with their children, focusing on nutrition education and encouraging intuitive eating, which prioritizes listening to one's body.
"For me and my personal aesthetic, I like to be skinny and there’s nothing wrong with that"
Instagram
"I’m trying to build a genuine thing"
Instagram
"I want better for our youth"
Instagram
The Role of Influencers
Influencers hold remarkable sway over their followers, particularly among younger demographics. Dr. Alexandra Solomon, a relationship expert, notes that these figures often shape perceptions of beauty and health.
With this influence comes responsibility; influencers should prioritize the well-being of their audience. Educating influencers about the potential harm their content may cause could be a step toward more responsible social media practices. Workshops and training sessions on body positivity and mental health could empower them to share healthier messages.
Here's how TikTokers reacted to Liv's content
Useless, said one user
And something along with it
In the age of digital consumption, understanding the psychology behind body image is crucial. Dr. Carol Dweck, a motivation researcher, emphasizes the importance of fostering a growth mindset among youth.
Encouraging young people to focus on their abilities and attributes, rather than external appearances, can significantly improve self-esteem. Schools and communities should implement programs that highlight personal strengths and resilience, aiming to combat the negative effects of social media on body image.
People should be smarter
Choose a side
Appalling
Strategies for Healthier Eating
To combat the spread of harmful dieting practices among young audiences, experts recommend promoting a balanced approach to nutrition. Dr. Dean Ornish, a preventive medicine expert, advocates for plant-based diets that not only enhance physical health but also support mental well-being.
Engaging in cooking workshops and nutrition classes can empower young individuals to make healthier choices. By providing them with practical skills and knowledge, they can develop a positive relationship with food that prioritizes health over appearance.
It's not healthy to be fat either
It can be dangerous
Another user agreed
Addressing the issue of eating disorders requires a community effort. Therapists often recommend that parents monitor their children's media consumption, fostering an environment where discussions about body image and health can flourish.
Dr. Laurie Santos, a psychology professor, emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence in these conversations. By teaching children to recognize and articulate their feelings towards media influences, they can build resilience against negative body image messages.
Cancel culture going strong
Fitness influencer Liv Schmidt was banned from TikTok for promoting disordered eating through extreme dieting advice. Despite running an exclusive group encouraging harmful weight-loss practices, some followers defended her content.
Critics warn that her influence contributed to unhealthy behaviors, especially among vulnerable teenage girls, which prompted her removal from this social network.
Healing Approaches & Techniques
In conclusion, the intersection of social media, body image, and mental health is critical in today's society. Experts like Dr. Jean Twenge and Dr. Mark Hyman emphasize the importance of fostering healthy discussions around these topics. By encouraging open communication in families and schools, we can empower youth to navigate social pressures more effectively.
Moreover, influencers must recognize their impact and prioritize the well-being of their followers by promoting healthier messages. As a collective effort, we can create a more supportive environment for future generations.
