Social media has become a hotbed for the latest health and fitness crazes, with TikTok leading the charge. From questionable diet challenges to risky workout hacks, these trends often promise the world but can come with unexpected pitfalls. Hypnotherapist Marygrace Anderson, who helps clients refocus and find balance in their lives, weighs in on some of the most popular TikTok health trends and why you might want to proceed with caution.
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Dry Scooping: The Quick Fix That Might Leave You Breathless
It looks dramatic: people dumping pre-workout powder straight into their mouths without water, claiming it enhances the powder’s absorption and boosts performance. While TikTok videos of coughing fits and teary eyes from failed attempts have racked up millions of views, this trend carries real dangers.
“Dry scooping isn’t just uncomfortable; it can be hazardous,” warns Marygrace. Risks include choking, breathing issues, and dangerously high caffeine levels, which could spike your heart rate. Instead of chasing shortcuts, Marygrace suggests using hypnotherapy to cultivate a deeper understanding of your fitness goals and align them with safe, sustainable practices.
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The 30-Day Gallon Water Challenge: Overhydration Isn’t Always the Answer
Staying hydrated is essential, but drinking a gallon of water daily for a month, as this TikTok trend encourages, can do more harm than good. Excessive water intake may lead to hyponatremia (a potentially dangerous drop in sodium levels), kidney strain, and uncomfortable symptoms like bloating and nausea.
“Hydration isn’t a one-size-fits-all situation,” Marygrace says. “Your body knows what it needs, and hypnotherapy can help you better connect with those internal cues, so you’re not relying on arbitrary trends to dictate your water intake.”
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Apple Cider Vinegar: Miracle Elixir or Acidic Nightmare?
TikTok has turned apple cider vinegar into a supposed health hero, claiming it aids weight loss and curbs appetite. However, the science doesn’t back up these bold claims. What’s more, its high acidity can damage your throat, stomach lining, and tooth enamel when consumed excessively.
Marygrace suggests focusing on your long-term health goals rather than chasing fad solutions: “Hypnotherapy can help you work through emotional triggers around food and weight, empowering you to make choices that truly nourish your body without resorting to harsh or ineffective trends.”
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Fasting Challenges: Timing Your Meals or Timing Trouble?
Fasting trends like intermittent fasting have garnered massive followings on TikTok, with promises of rapid weight loss and improved focus. However, jumping into a fasting regimen without professional guidance can leave you nutrient-deficient, fatigued, and even prone to disordered eating habits.
“Fasting isn’t inherently bad,” Marygrace explains, “but it needs to suit your body and lifestyle. Hypnotherapy is a powerful tool to address your relationship with food and encourage mindful eating, so you feel in control rather than restricted.”
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The 75 Hard Challenge: Discipline or Danger?
Dubbed the ultimate self-discipline programme, the 75 Hard Challenge involves sticking to a strict daily routine of workouts, reading, and clean eating for 75 consecutive days. The lack of rest days and rigid rules, however, leave little room for balance or individual needs. This can lead to injuries, burnout, and an unhealthy fixation on perfection.
Marygrace notes, “Extreme challenges like this can do more harm than good if they push you to ignore your body’s signals. Hypnotherapy can help you find a balanced approach to health and fitness, building habits that last without jeopardising your physical or mental well-being.”
Think Before You Trend
While TikTok can be a fun source of fitness inspiration, not every viral health craze is worth following. “Trends often prioritise shock value over safety,” says Marygrace. “Instead of chasing quick fixes, focus on creating sustainable routines that honour your body’s unique needs. Hypnotherapy can help you stay grounded, motivated, and balanced as you pursue your health goals.”
Remember, health isn’t about jumping on the latest bandwagon. It’s about making thoughtful, informed choices that support your overall well-being – trends or no trends.
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