Influencers disagree with Oxford study
Instagram users who use the platform to fight against “irresponsible” advertising disagree with the findings of an Oxford University study.
Mandy Jones, who runs the Empowered Women Project, said that in her experience social media can be very harmful, especially to young girls.
Her petition calling for action against ads that promote speedy weight-loss diets has over 8,000 signatures.
The Oxford University research asked 12,000 young people how they use social media on a normal day.
It also asked them how satisfied they were with aspects of their lives.
Diren Kartal, a personal trainer with an Instagram following of 74 thousand, re-posted an advertisement from reality TV star Jemma Lucy’s account.
He wrote: “You’re pregnant and promoting weight loss products…if you have lost 7 pounds on this while you’re pregnant maybe go see your doctor to ensure everything is all healthy.”
The NHS advise that a safe rate of weight loss is between 1 and 2lbs for one week.
Jemma Lucy’s post repeats The Skinny Caffe’s claim that their product program can help you “lose up to 7lbs in 7 days.”
Lucy fought back claiming it was ridiculous to suggest her post would cause eating disorders.
The Advertising Standards Authority issued guidelines for influencers in January and members of the public or groups can make complaints to them if they see a post that breaks the UK Advertising code.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sNw9TOqV23g&w=560&h=315]
