Analysis of Pinterest as a Tool for Dissemination of Nutrition Information for Parents of Teenagers

Abstract

This study focused on exploring the type of nutrition information disseminated on the social media site, Pinterest. The information analyzed focused specifically on nutrition information for teenagers. Data were collected by purposive sampling based upon specific inclusion criteria. Five sets of search terms were used: teen breakfast healthy, teen lunch healthy, teen dinner healthy, teen nutrition and healthy snacks for teens. From these sets of search terms, 99 pins were collected for through mixed methods by two separate researchers. Data collected from the pins were compared to the MyPlate guidelines. At least one food group from MyPlate was featured in the information shared, with the majority of pins featuring two to five of the MyPlate guidelines. The results indicated that overall, the pins were not from nutrition-related credible sources; rather, the information came primarily from parents of teenagers sharing their personal experiences. In general, the nutrition information shared was mostly accurate, albeit vague. Due to the lack of nutrition-related credible sources, this study highlights a platform that registered dietitians and other health professionals could use to share relatable, evidence-based nutrition and wellness information to parents and adolescents.