A LOCAL eating disorder charity has welcomed TikTok’s decision to ban a controversial hashtag which it said promoted “restriction, overexercise, and calorie obsession” and could “fuel eating disorders” among young people.
The #SkinnyTok trend focussed on content promoting extreme thinness, weight loss, or “skinny” body ideals.
Jersey Eating Disorder Support (JEDS) praised the ban as a “positive step”, claiming that the popular hashtag glamourised disordered eating and toxic body ideals.
“These videos glorified restriction, overexercise, and calorie obsession – all of which can fuel eating disorders,” the charity wrote in a social media post.
“At JEDS we believe every body deserves respect, nourishment, and compassion – both online and offline.”
TikTok recently announced it had blocked search results for #SkinnyTok, which the platform said had become “linked to unhealthy weight loss content”.
Users who search the term are now redirected to mental health support resources.
Content associated with the hashtag often included workout routines, “what I eat in a day” videos, weight-loss tips, and body-check clips.
While JEDS welcomed the ban, it warned 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 added.
TikTok has faced previous criticism over body image-related content. In March, it removed a “chubby filter” that made users appear overweight after backlash over its potential to shame larger bodies.
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.
