TikTok is renowned for being a place of quirky trends that often become controversial hot topics, such as the TikTok health trends. Many of these trends start as playful or innovative ideas and then spiral into something huge and unsafe, triggering worldwide concern. Medical experts have spoken out against several dangerous health trends that young people have indulged in for likes and views on the popular social media platform. Here are some of the craziest TikTok health trends.
1. Budget Ozempic: The Weight-Loss Shortcut?
A trend kicked off on TikTok for budget-friendly weight-loss medications after celebrities promoted Ozempic and Wegovy. These medications were glorified as revolutionary drugs that could solve the issue of obesity. However, they are quite pricey, prompting TikTok users to find cheaper alternatives.
This was when the “Budget Ozempic” trend started. This trend promoted laxatives like Miralax as an alternative weight-loss solution. The demand for laxatives increased, resulting in a shortage at pharmacies. This trend sparked concerns over health risks. Experts chimed in, explaining that laxatives would only remove temporary water weight and not fat.
2. Mouth Taping: A Risky Sleep Hack
TikTok users shared that taping the mouth while sleeping was an effective strategy to reduce snoring and improve breathing. It was also claimed that this strategy could alleviate depression. The trend took over the app, leading to many people taping their mouths, even while exercising.
However, experts discouraged this strategy, stating it was dangerous. Medical professionals also warned that mouth taping was even more riskier for people with conditions like sleep apnoea or nasal blockages. Nose breathing does have health benefits, but taping the mouth shut has significant risks.
3. Girl Dinner: A Playful Trend with Serious Implications
When the “Girl Dinner” trend kicked off on TikTok, it was to highlight the simple meals women enjoyed having. However, the trend brought awareness of the alarmingly small portions women ate. Many of the meals were snacks like cheese, olives, and crackers. This ignited concerns regarding body image and eating disorders, prompting experts to encourage women to prioritise balanced meals that are rich in protein.
4. Flaxseed Masks: DIY Skincare Craze
Flaxseed masks grew popular on TikTok for their so-called skincare benefits. Claiming this mask reduced wrinkles and cured acne, TikTok users praised the flaxseed mask as a natural alternative to Botox. Videos with individuals using this homemade remedy garnered millions of views. However, dermatologists chimed in, calling out these claims as misleading. These experts indicated that the remedy offered no benefits for the long-term effects of ageing skin.
5. Bed-Rotting: Self-Care or Slippery Slope?
Another TikTok health trend that garnered the attention of health experts was the “bed-rotting” trend. This trend involved individuals lying in bed for days to relax and recharge. Many people referred to it as part of the “soft living,” which focused on living more stress-free. However, the bed-rotting trend garnered criticism. Individuals were warned of the potential risks, such as worsening existing conditions like depression and anxiety. Experts discouraged excessive bed rest and urged individuals to practice moderation.
6. Bone-Smashing: A Dangerous Pursuit of Beauty
One of the worst health trends on TikTok was “bone-smashing.” According to this dangerous trend, individuals could reshape their jawlines by hitting their faces with hard objects like hammers. This is due to a misinterpretation of bone-healing science. Individuals on the social media platform attempted this scary trend, showing them violently smashing their faces and igniting major concern. Medical professionals quickly spoke out against this trend, warning the public about the dangerous consequences, such as severe injuries and disfigurement. The trend ended and was brushed off as a joke by the TikTok community, which later started advocating safer beauty practices.
