The high cost of chasing the perfect body in the age of social media

Veni E N

Feb 02, 2026

Health

Health

Doctors and psychologists said a pattern is becoming increasingly common — young people risking serious harm in pursuit of rapid body transformation.

Health

Psychologists said teenagers and young adults today grow up under relentless pressure to conform to narrow beauty ideals.

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These ideals are shaped and amplified through films, television, advertisements and, most intensely, social media platforms that reward appearance with validation.

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When such beliefs take root, individuals become more likely to engage in risky behaviours — from extreme dieting to consuming unverified substances — in search of quick results.

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Doctors warn that over-the-counter and unregulated weight loss products can cause severe and sometimes fatal complications.