In Latvia, there is a growing concern about the sources of nutritional advice being utilized by the public, particularly the reliance on social media influencers. Dietitian Lolita Neimane, who heads university programs in Nutrition and Nutritional Science, has noted an increase in the public's awareness of consulting qualified nutritionists. According to her findings, approximately 30% of individuals now consider dietitians and nutrition specialists as credible sources of information, a significant rise compared to a few years ago.

Despite this positive trend, Neimane pointed out that many people still prefer to seek advice from social media content creators or friends rather than qualified professionals. This reflects a larger issue where a lack of education and knowledge about the importance of consulting certified specialists can lead individuals to adopt potentially harmful dietary practices based on unqualified opinions. She advocates for a greater push towards professional guidance to improve public health outcomes.

Furthermore, Neimane addressed the ongoing shortage of qualified nutrition experts in Latvia, suggesting that even if the public were inclined to seek professional advice, the availability of trained specialists remains a challenge. This dual issue of public perception and resource availability reflects the complexities surrounding dietary education in the region, making it essential for educational efforts to continue in order to build a more informed public.