A local eating disorder charity has welcomed TikTok’s decision to ban the “harmful” #SkinnyTok hashtag – which the social media platform said had become “linked to unhealthy weight loss content”.
This trend focussed on content promoting extreme thinness, weight loss, or “skinny” body ideals.
Content associated with the hashtag included videos showing people’s work-out routines, what they eat in a day, weight-loss tips, and ‘body-check’ videos.
But TikTok recently announced it had “blocked search results for #SkinnyTok since it has become linked to unhealthy weight loss content”.
People searching for the hashtag will now be redirected to mental health support resources instead.
Jersey Eating Disorder Support welcomed the move, saying that #SkinnyTok promoted “extreme thinness, disordered eating, and toxic ‘body goals’ disguised as wellness”.
In a post on social media, the local charity wrote: “These videos glorified restriction, overexercise, and calorie obsession – all of which can fuel eating disorders, especially among young people.
“At JEDS we believe every body deserves respect, nourishment, and compassion – both online and offline.”
But despite praising the #SkinnyTok ban as a “positive step”, Jersey Eating Disorder Support acknowledged that “harmful content still exists under new names”.
“Let’s stay informed, support one another, and continue creating digital spaces that celebrate body diversity, recovery, and mental health,” the charity said.
These videos glorified restriction, overexercise, and calorie obsession – all of which can fuel eating disorders, especially among young people
Jersey Eating Disorder Support
This is not the first time TikTok has been forced to take action over content which raised body image concerns.
In March, the platform blocked so-called “chubby filters” – a viral tool which made people appear overweight.
SUPPORT…
If you’re struggling with an eating disorder or supporting a loved one who is, you can reach out for free, confidential support by contacting Karen Dingle at Jersey Eating Disorder Support on hello@jeds.je.