7 Health Hacks on TikTok: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
TikTok is known for entertaining content, trending dance moves, and, yes, health hacks. With millions of views, some health hacks promise quick and easy remedies, but are they effective? Are they safe?
With so many people trying to make a positive impact on the platform, with some even opting to buy active TikTok followers to promote their content, in doing so, they may compromise the authenticity and integrity of their message.
In this article, we’re going to take a closer look at these popular trends. Let’s dive into the world of TikTok health hacks and explore the good, the bad, and the ugly.
The Good
1. Hydrate First Thing in the Morning
One of the most popular health hacks circulating on TikTok is drinking a full glass of water first thing in the morning. This is a healthy habit everyone should adopt. Staying hydrated supports overall health helps maintain body temperature, aids in digestion, and can even enhance skin health. So, hats off to this hack—it’s simple, practical, and indeed good for you.
2. Implementing Breathing Exercises
Another popular hack is deep breathing exercises. They can help in managing stress, reducing anxiety, and improving heart health. Breathing techniques like box breathing or the 4-7-8 technique are safe to practice and can be done anywhere. These exercises can be a game-changer for your mental and physical well-being.
So far, so good, right? But let’s move on to those hacks that aren’t quite as positive.
The Bad
3. DIY Teeth Whitening
On TikTok, there are countless DIY teeth-whitening hacks, many of which involve baking soda and lemon juice. But here’s the thing: it’s not safe. Lemon juice is acidic, and when combined with abrasive baking soda, it can erode the enamel on your teeth. Over time, this can lead to sensitive teeth and other dental problems. Instead, it’s much safer to stick to dentist-approved methods or natural alternatives like oil pulling.
4. Banana Peel for Acne Treatment
Another frequently shared hack is using a banana peel to treat acne. The theory is that the antioxidants and potassium in the peel can reduce inflammation and redness. However, while it may not necessarily harm your skin, there’s little scientific evidence to support its effectiveness. It’s best to use proven acne treatments instead of banking on bananas.
As we delve deeper, we find the outright dangerous.
The Ugly
5. Sleepy Chicken
This worrying trend involves boiling chicken in Nyquil as a sleep aid. Consuming large amounts of Nyquil can lead to severe health complications, including liver damage. It’s far safer to improve sleep hygiene by establishing a regular sleep schedule, reducing screen time before bed, and practicing mindfulness techniques.
6. DIY Sunscreen
Some TikTokers have been sharing recipes for homemade sunscreens. While it might sound like a fun DIY project, it’s a risky proposition. Commercial sunscreens undergo rigorous testing to ensure they protect against harmful UV rays. A homemade version simply cannot guarantee the same level of protection. Risking sunburn and skin cancer is definitely not worth it.
7. Snorting Cinnamon
Possibly the most dangerous health hack is snorting cinnamon to clear sinuses. This is extremely harmful and can lead to severe lung damage. If you are having sinus issues, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional.
Conclusion
In the age of information, it’s easy to be misled by the myriad of health hacks out there. While some hacks like hydration and deep breathing exercises can be beneficial, others range from ineffective to downright harmful.
Remember, your health is precious, and it’s always best to consult a healthcare professional before trying new health remedies.
