Digital Environments and Obesity: The Role of Social Media, Marketing, and Sedentary Behaviors

Abstract

The rising global prevalence of obesity coincides with the pervasive integration of digital technologies into daily life, necessitating a comprehensive review of how digital environments act as both determinants and potential solutions to this public health crisis. Current evidence reveals a complex, dualistic relationship where digital platforms can simultaneously exacerbate risk factors for obesity and serve as powerful tools for intervention and health promotion. This review highlights the existing literature to clarify these contradictory roles and inform the development of effective, evidence-based public health strategies for the digital age. This review examines the multifaceted interplay between digital environments and obesity, focusing on several key areas. It explores the structure and influence of the digital food environment, including how online marketing and food imagery shape consumer behavior and dietary choices. The analysis extends to the specific role of digital and social media marketing strategies in influencing dietary patterns, particularly among children and adolescents. Furthermore, the review covers the potential of digital tools for health promotion, including social media for goal setting and motivation, digital and family-based interventions for pediatric obesity, and exergames to reduce sedentary behavior. It also summarizes findings from key clinical trials evaluating digital support systems and cognitive behavioral therapy apps. Finally, the manuscript discusses the emerging influence of artificial intelligence on personalized food marketing and its implications for public health. Future research should prioritize longitudinal studies to assess the sustained impact of digital interventions and the long-term effects of exposure to digital food marketing. There is a critical need to investigate and develop ethical frameworks and regulatory policies to mitigate the risks of artificial intelligence driven marketing and promote digital environments that inherently support healthy choices. Finally, expanding research into tailored, equitable digital solutions that account for socioeconomic, cultural, and demographic disparities will be essential for maximizing the public health benefit of digital technologies in obesity prevention and management