Social Media as a Source of Weight-Loss Information: Patterns of Use, Trust, and Self-Reported Behavioral Responses Among Adults in Palestine

Background Social media has become a dominant source of health-related information worldwide, including weight-loss guidance. However, concerns persist regarding misinformation, unverified claims, and their potential influence on health behaviors. Evidence from low- and middle-income settings, particularly Palestine, remains limited. This study aimed to assess the prevalence, behavioral patterns, trust dynamics, and perceived risks associated with social media use for weight-loss information among Palestinian adults. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted between November 2025 and February 2026 using a validated online questionnaire adapted from a previously published Saudi study. Adults aged ≥ 18 years residing in Palestine who had used at least one social media platform in the preceding three months were included. A total of 569 participants were analyzed. Descriptive statistics summarized participant characteristics. Associations were examined using chi-square, Fisher’s exact, and Mann–Whitney tests. Variables with p ≤ 0.20 were entered into a multivariable logistic regression model to identify independent predictors of using social media for weight-loss information. Results Among participants (median age 28 years; 76.3% female), 58.3% reported using social media to seek weight-loss information. Female gender (aOR = 2.78, 95% CI: 1.45–5.34) and daily social media use exceeding four hours (aOR = 2.24, 95% CI: 1.11–4.52) were independently associated with weight-loss–related use. Behavioral engagement, particularly applying weight-loss information obtained online, was strongly associated with usage patterns. Trust in available weight-loss information also independently predicted engagement. Although many participants perceived social media as accessible and helpful, a substantial proportion acknowledged the presence of misleading or scientifically inaccurate content. Conclusions Social media represents a widely used source of weight-loss information among adults in Palestine, particularly among females and high-frequency users. Trust and behavioral engagement appear to play central roles in shaping usage patterns. These findings highlight the urgent need to strengthen digital health literacy and promote evidence-based, professionally monitored weight-loss content in online environments.