10 Food Fads That Turned Out to Be Dangerous
Some food fads that once seemed healthy or trendy have been proven to be harmful and unsafe.
- Sophia Zapanta
- 4 min read
Certain food trends gained popularity because they were promoted as fast solutions for health or weight loss. Many of these trends were not based on science and ended up causing harm. Understanding these risks can help people make better choices about what they eat.
1. Raw Milk
Los Muertos Crew on Pexels
Raw milk is milk that has not been pasteurized to kill bacteria. Supporters claim it is more natural and contains additional nutrients. However, raw milk can carry dangerous bacteria such as E. coli, Salmonella, and Listeria. These bacteria can cause severe illness, particularly in children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
2. Juice Cleanses
Polina Tankilevitch on Pexels
Juice cleanses involve drinking only juice made from fruits or vegetables for a short period. Some people believe this helps remove toxins and improves digestion. In reality, the body already removes toxins on its own through the liver and kidneys. Juice cleanses often lack protein and fiber, which can lead to weakness, dizziness, and other problems.
3. Charcoal-Infused Foods
Lukas on Pexels
Activated charcoal has been added to drinks, smoothies, and baked goods. It is sometimes promoted as a way to absorb toxins in the body. However, charcoal can also block the absorption of vitamins and medicines. This can lead to nutrient deficiencies and reduce the effectiveness of medications.
4. Tapeworm Diet
Jonathan Borba on Pexels
This trend involves swallowing pills that contain tapeworm eggs to lose weight. It has been used in the past, but it is illegal and extremely dangerous. Tapeworms can grow inside the body and cause problems such as vomiting, malnutrition, and even organ damage. Medical professionals warn that this method should never be used.
5. Cotton Ball Diet
Teona Swift on Pexels
The cotton ball diet involves eating cotton balls soaked in liquids to feel full without eating real food. This trend became known on social media among people trying to control their weight. Cotton balls are made of synthetic fibers and are not safe to eat. They can cause choking, blockages in the digestive system, and long-term damage to the intestines.
6. Alkaline Diet
Polina Tankilevitch on Pexels
The alkaline diet promotes the consumption of foods that are purported to make the body less acidic. It primarily consists of fruits and vegetables, avoiding meat and processed foods. The idea is that this diet alters the body’s pH level, but this is not supported by scientific evidence. The body naturally controls its pH, and diet has little effect on it.
7. Baby Food Diet
Foodie Factor on Pexels
This diet became popular because baby food is low in calories and comes in small portions. People use it to replace one or more meals in a day. However, baby food is made for infants and does not provide enough nutrition for adults. Following this diet for an extended period can lead to fatigue, nutrient deficiencies, and muscle loss.
8. Breatharianism
Maurício Mascaro on Pexels
Breatharianism is the belief that people can live without eating food and sometimes without drinking water. Some followers claim they get energy from light or air. This practice is extremely unsafe and has caused deaths from starvation and dehydration. The human body requires food and water to survive, a concept supported by medical science.
9. Apple Cider Vinegar Shots
Rosana Solis on Pexels
Apple cider vinegar has been taken in small amounts to aid digestion and support weight loss. Some people began drinking it straight, in the form of daily shots. This can damage the lining of the stomach, harm tooth enamel, and cause throat burns. Vinegar should always be diluted and used with caution.
10. Liver Detox Teas
Cup of Couple on Pexels
Liver detox teas are marketed as a means to cleanse the liver or eliminate toxins. These teas often include herbs with strong effects, including laxatives. Overuse of these teas can lead to dehydration, diarrhea, and pressure on the liver instead of support. The liver already removes toxins from the body, and these teas are not necessary for that process.