Behind every post that demeans your body is a weight loss industry — or some industry — that's making money off your insecurities. Dr. Kessel says it may be useful to remember that next time a TikTok video sends you into a spiral.
"Start thinking about who profits from these 'trends,'" Dr. Kessel says. There's a lot of money to be made from helping people achieve the ever-changing body "trends" or fixing manufactured "problems" like "hip dips" or "Ozempic butt," she says. Not wanting to be a pawn in the weight-loss industry's reinforcement of diet culture may give you extra incentive to let go of any anxiety about whether a certain body part is "normal" or not.
If you or someone you know is struggling with disordered eating, help is available. Call the Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders Hotline at 1-888-375-7767.
Kells McPhillips is a health and wellness writer living in Los Angeles. In addition to PS, her journalism has appeared in The New York Times, Well+Good, Fortune, Runner's World, Outside, Yoga Journal, and others. On the brand side, she regularly works with Peloton, Calm, and Equinox.
