TikTok is the epicenter for entertainment and information today, especially in younger populations. Along with funny videos, singing, and dancing, TikTok also has a large platform of people who promote “Healthy Living” to their viewers, along with tips and products they say will help with physical and mental health. Let’s dive into some of these trends targeted toward weight loss and see what holds up to the truth!
Chlorophyll Water
Chlorophyll water has taken the app by storm with everyone adding a few drops to their water for health benefits. Does it check out? Well, yes and no. While there is little evidence to suggest that chlorophyll supplements help with weight loss, the plant pigment does have antioxidant properties that can promote health. Liquid supplementation makes it so that the pigment and its compounds can be absorbed more easily by the body than through plants. Chlorophyll has been shown to have protective qualities against cancer and can improve the appearance of skin. Don’t overdo it however, though it isn’t toxic it can cause diarrhea.
#WhatIEatInADay
What I eat in a day is a common tag among the Health side of TikTok. Each video features perfectly filtered representations of what each respective influencer eats in a day like a smoothie bowl for breakfast, paired with iced coffee, a granola bar before their workout, and a salad with boiled chicken for dinner. Or oddly enough, the complete opposite of the spectrum with very fit people promoting diets of excessive amounts of coffee, fast food, and carb-heavy dinners. Overall the general consensus is that … this is confusing. At best it can provide healthy meal ideas for the day and provide accountability for viewers, but at worst it will promote unhealthy eating habits and patterns that aren’t conducive to health. It’s best to steer clear of these and figure out what kind of nutrients and meal patterns are best for you as an individual!
Weighted Hula Hoops
As funny as it looks, weighted hula hoops have taken TikTok by storm and are being promoted by a variety of health influencers and viewers alike on the platform. Do they work or are they just a funky new accessory? Well, if you gave in to the trend, you’re in luck! Hula Hooping is an aerobic exercise that can help aid weight loss. With a properly fitted and appropriately weighted hoop, 30 minutes of hooping can help women and men burn 160 and 200 calories respectively. Hip Hip Hula!
Written by GUADS intern with contributions from webmd.com and drugs.com