Virtual Influences, Real Consequences: Social Media’s Role in Food Preferences and Nutrition Among Punjab’s Adolescent Girls

Abstract

This study investigates the influence of social media usage on the food choices and nutritional status of school-going adolescent girls in Punjab. A total of 520 subjects, aged 16-18 years, were selected from rural and urban schools across Punjab. The sample was divided into social media users and non-users based on daily usage duration, with further subdivision into rural and urban categories. Comprehensive data was collected on socio-economic status, dietary habits, physical activity and anthropometric parameters. Dietary intake was assessed using the 24-hour recall method and compared with the Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA). Nutrient adequacy and dietary diversity scores were calculated, while body composition was analyzed using advanced tools. Results revealed significant differences in dietary patterns, nutrient intake, and body composition between users and non-users of social media. Rural nonusers displayed healthier eating habits, including higher fruit consumption and lower fat intake, while urban users reported greater consumption of processed and junk foods.