Instagram has apologized for their harmful diet search results targeted at users who struggle with eating disorders. The backlash stems from Instagram’s search recommendation algorithm – which suggests triggering keywords such as “appetite suppressant” and “fasting” to certain users.
Instagram influencer Lauren Black – who is currently recovering from her battle with anorexia – called out Instagram for their harmful search suggestions and their resulting side-effects on mental health:
“I could be triggered by this imagery and language and have a relapse. When I use the app, I’m often promoted things like calorie counting images and diet methods. People go to Instagram for support with their illness. But if you look at and research eating disorder recovery, then Instagram just throws harmful stuff at you, it can be really damaging. I know there are extremely helpful posts including what I create for others. But the triggering imagery should be stopped because I don’t want to be bombarded on how to lose weight. I try to click off it and put my phone away as soon as I see it because it upsets me”.
A Facebook spokesperson shared that the algorithm was meant to help users find relevant content, but wasn’t supposed include weight loss as a general suggested topic:
“To help people discover content they’re interested in, we recently rolled out a new way to search on Instagram beyond hashtags and usernames, where you tap on the search bar and we suggest topics you may want to search for. Those suggestions, as well as the search results themselves, are limited to general interests. Weight loss should not have been one of them and we’ve taken steps to prevent these terms from appearing here. We’re sorry for any confusion caused”.
Dr. Bryony Bamford – Clinical Director at The London Centre for Eating Disorders and Body Image – argued that this harmful diet content should have never shown up on Instagram suggestions in the first place and that Instagram had to be more vigilant moving forward:
“Many people with eating disorders, or in recovery from an eating disorder, can be immensely triggered by unhelpful messages viewed on social media. Messages about dieting or weight loss in particular can strengthen or trigger eating disorder cognitions. Recovering from an eating disorder can be an extremely vulnerable time for sufferers, and whilst they can try to limit known triggers as much as possible, exposure to unexpected triggers can present a significant risk of relapse”.
In early February, Instagram revealed that the platform was looking to eliminate posts that promote eating disorders and self-harm within their community. They also provided additional resources and NEDA’s Helpline (1-800-931-2237) to users who search for keywords related to eating disorders.