YouTube stars pushing junk food get kids to eat more unhealthy snacks

On average, kids who saw junk food promotions consumed 448 calories, compared with 389 calories for children who saw healthy food marketing and 357 for those who didn't see any food promotions, the study found.

Children who see young social media influencers promote junk food may consume more unhealthy calories, a new study suggests. 

Advertising aimed at kids has long been linked to an increased risk that children will make unhealthy food choices and press their parents to buy them more processed, sugary, and calorie-loaded foods. Studies also suggest children can be easily swayed to try junk food endorsed by celebrities and cartoon characters. Less clear, however, is how their eating habits are impacted by social media influencers.