From fitness fads to nutritious recipes, TikTok is the latest hub for health and wellness content. Even though plenty of the content on TikTok may be harmless entertainment, caution is needed when seeking out fitness and nutrition advice. Some videos contain misinformation, which can have a potentially dangerous influence on Gen Z—the app’s most prominent age group.
Though these health trends may seem appealing, much of what users are sharing is not backed by research and could be more harmful to your health than helpful.
Dry scooping pre-workout powder
Common among athletes and gym-goers, dry scooping pre-workout powder means swallowing a scoop of powder all at once instead of mixing and drinking it with water. Some claim that dry scooping can help your body absorb the energy-boosting powder faster, thus resulting in a better workout—but these claims are not research backed. Taking the powder this way not only creates a choking hazard, but also increases the risk of accidentally inhaling it into your lungs and nasal passages. In some cases, this can lead to inflammation or an infection.
Instead, try dissolving the powder with the intended 8 to 12 oz of water for a safer and still effective burst of energy. You can also get energized for your next activity by seeking out natural energy boosters, such as matcha, or even simply drinking more water, which energizes your muscles and helps fight fatigue.