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Instagram is restricting posts that promote weight loss products

Instagram is restricting posts that promote weight loss products

Instagram has launched a new policy which will restrict posts that encourage people to buy ‘laxative’ diet teas, lollipops and shakes. Instagram announced the news on Wednesday and it will also be putting restrictions in place for cosmetic surgery to combat the negative impact on body image. According to Instagram the new policy will also apply to Facebook.

Posts that promote weight-loss products or cosmetic surgery will have age restrictions that will ban under 18s from viewing them. As well as this, posts for weight-loss products which have a “miraculous claim” and have discount codes will be banned or removed. 

Emma Collins, Instagram’s public policy manager, said: “We want Instagram to be a positive place for everyone that uses it and this policy is part of our ongoing work to reduce the pressure that people can sometimes feel as a result of social media.

“We’ve sought guidance from external experts, including Dr Ysabel Gerrard in the UK, to make sure any steps to restrict and remove this content will have a positive impact on our community of over one billion people around the world – whilst ensuring Instagram remains a platform for expression and discussion.”

Many celebrities such as Jameela Jamil have been critics of people who promote such products.“This is a huge win for our ongoing fight against the diet/detox industry,” she said. “Facebook and Instagram taking a stand to protect the physical and mental health of people online sends an important message out to the world.

“I’m thrilled to have been able to work towards this with them, alongside a host of other experts who shed light on the danger of these products.

“Instagram were supportive and helpful when I brought them my protests and petitions; they listened, they cared, they moved so efficiently, and communicated with us throughout the process.”

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