Experts and parents alarmed by a social media movement pushing extreme diet and exercise on vulnerable youth

In a concerning development, social media platforms, notably TikTok, have become breeding grounds for a dangerous trend known as “Starvemaxxing,” targeting young men and boys with messages that promote disordered eating and unrealistic body ideals. This phenomenon, which has amassed billions of views, emphasizes an extreme focus on physical appearance, urging followers to adopt harmful dietary and exercise regimes to achieve a gaunt, chiselled look. With roots in the broader “Looksmaxxing” internet culture, “Starvemaxxing” presents a more perilous drift toward glorifying eating disorders and body dysmorphia.

The trend has not only captured the attention of millions but has also led to a distressing culture where young individuals, some as young as 14, feel pressured to undergo drastic measures such as prolonged fasting, engaging in “bone-smashing” to alter the facial structure, and even considering steroids and plastic surgery to conform to these promoted ideals. This stark obsession with achieving a certain physical appearance has propelled vulnerable viewers into a spiral of self-critique and unhealthy practices, raising alarms among experts and parents alike.

Amid this growing issue, the Mirror’s investigation uncovered numerous accounts and videos on platforms like TikTok, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram, advocating for “Starvemaxxing” practices. These findings have sparked outrage and concern, prompting calls for action against the spread of such harmful content. Despite some claims that the trend is satirical, the impact on impressionable young minds remains undeniably detrimental, potentially triggering or exacerbating eating disorders.

Eating disorder charity Beat and other experts have voiced their concerns, highlighting the grave risk such content poses to individuals, particularly those already battling or vulnerable to eating disorders. The charity stresses that, while social media does not directly cause eating disorders, it can significantly influence and aggravate conditions, making recovery more challenging.

The digital community and social media platforms face a critical responsibility to address and mitigate the spread of “Starvemaxxing” content. TikTok, in response to the Mirror’s investigation, has initiated a ban on “Starvemaxxing” related content, directing users to resources and support for eating disorders. Similarly, Meta has removed identified harmful content from its platforms, underscoring its stance against promoting or glorifying eating disorders.