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Article
A Content Analysis of Pinterest Belly Fat Loss Exercises: Unrealistic Expectations and Misinformation
American Journal of Health Education
  • Ashley Dedrick, University of North Florida
  • Julie W. Merten, University of North Florida
  • Tammy Adams, University of North Florida
  • Meghann Wheeler, University of North Florida
  • Terrell Kassie, University of North Florida
  • Jessica L. King, The University of Utah
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
9-2-2020
Abstract

Background: Pinterest has changed the way we seek and share health information with more than 300 million active users. Nearly 40% of Americans are obese and seek fast, easy weight loss solutions online despite evidence that diet and physical activity are the only effective ways to manage weight. Purpose: This study used content analysis to examine how exercises to reduce belly fat were portrayed on Pinterest, a social media website used to bookmark online content. Methods: Using search terms belly fat exercises and belly fat workouts, researchers sampled Pinterest pins to collect 234 relevant pins. A codebook was developed, tested, and used to code pins. Results: Of the 234 pins, the majority of pins highlighted being thinner (73.1%) rather than overall health (9.4%). Pins were primarily geared toward women (70%) with nearly half of the pins depicting women in sports bras (52.9%) with swimsuit model figures (48.7%); and 18% of the pins showed signs of photo edits. Discussion: Social media is a powerful source of health information. However, there is evidence of misleading weight loss, specifically belly fat loss strategies being promoted. Translation to Health Education Practice: Health educators need to develop social media campaigns to promote positive body image with realistic weight loss strategies.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
10.1080/19325037.2020.1795754
E-ISSN
21683751
Citation Information
Ashley Dedrick, Julie Williams Merten, Tammy Adams, Meghann Wheeler, Terrell Kassie & Jessica L. King (2020) A Content Analysis of Pinterest Belly Fat Loss Exercises: Unrealistic Expectations and Misinformation, American Journal of Health Education, 51:5, 328-337, DOI: 10.1080/19325037.2020.1795754