Here’s why Pinterest bans all forms of weight-loss ads

This move comes as the firm updated its ad policies in view of preventing content that could encourage unhealthy or disorderly habits.

Pinterest has now become the first major social media platform to ban all forms of weight loss and products associated with it. This move comes as the firm updated its ad policies in view of preventing content that could encourage unhealthy or disorderly habits.

According to a statement by the platform, the new ad policy is formulated with guidance from the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) whose research shows that there has been a rise in eating disorders and unhealthy eating habits, especially in young people during the pandemic. “…there’s been a steep rise in unhealthy eating habits and eating disorders in young people since the Covid-19 pandemic started last year. Many are now feeling added pressure as they look to rejoin their social circles in person for the first time in 15 months,” Pinterest’s blog post read.

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Joining a broader body-positivity movement, the platform also said that it will disallow or not encourage certain testimonials that include.

Here are the advertisements that are prohibited:

* Testimonials on weight loss and products associated with it

* Any language or imagery that idealises or denigrates certain body types along with before-after photos of the same

* Advertisements referencing body mass index (BMI) as well

* Weight loss or appetite suppressant pills

* Weight loss procedures like liposuction or fat burning

* Advertisements that claim unrealistic cosmetic results

However, Pinterest’s users, whom the company refers to as Pinners, will still be able to reach posts and images on healthy living, eating habits, and fitness services and products, as long as they do not focus on shedding weight.

“Pinterest is the place people come for inspiration to create a life they love,” the company said in a blog post.”It’s where everyone belongs – regardless of body shape or size. We’re empowering Pinners to plan for summer and beyond without weight loss ads, so they can focus on what matters most,” it added.

Although Pinterest claims to be the first major social media platform to take the step, in April this year, Instagram and TikTok added resources for individuals affected by eating disorders. Instagram also restricted weight loss content and certain types of cosmetic surgery from being seen by users under the age of 18.

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