Liv Schmidt, a content creator known for her controversial weight management videos, was recently banned from TikTok following allegations that she promoted unhealthy eating behaviors. Despite amassing over 670,000 followers with her diet content, TikTok took action against her account after concerns were raised about the potential harm her videos could cause.
According to a recent article in The Wall Street Journal, Liv Schmidt’s approach to dieting, which emphasizes severe calorie restriction, has sparked a debate about the line between promoting a healthy lifestyle and encouraging eating disorders. The conversation has expanded to include discussions about body positivity in today’s diet-focused social media environment.
Before the ban, Schmidt was often criticized for her content, which some said echoed the dangerous “pro-ana” movement of the early 2000s, a time when anorexia was glamorized online. Critics argue that her content could influence vulnerable viewers, particularly young women, by presenting extreme diets as desirable.
Despite TikTok’s policy against content that promotes eating disorders, Schmidt has continued to maintain a presence on other platforms like Instagram, where she engages more than 68,000 followers with similar content, now through a subscription model.
Schmidt’s supporters argue that his videos simply promote personal responsibility and the freedom to pursue weight loss if you want. They say the backlash is an overreaction that misunderstands the nature of his advice.
Experts in the field of psychology and eating disorders, however, have expressed concerns. They point out that while Schmidt’s messages may seem less overt than previous pro-anorexia content, they are subtly persuasive and potentially dangerous. They point to the special influence that social media influencers have on young adults, especially those who have experienced social isolation, such as during the pandemic.
In response to the ongoing controversy and discussion, Schmidt defended his content by stating that it is up to individuals to choose who to follow and what content to engage with, emphasizing the control users have over their social media environments.
For those seeking help or more information about eating disorders, resources such as the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) offer support and guidance for individuals and families dealing with these issues.
