15 Bizarre Health Trends From the ’70s
The 1970s featured unusual health trends that were popular despite limited scientific support.
- Sophia Zapanta
- 4 min read
The 1970s saw a variety of health fads that promised quick results or alternative cures. People tried new exercises, diets, and wellness practices, often without medical evidence. Many of these trends faded quickly, while some influenced modern fitness and nutrition.
1. Vibrating Belt Machines
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Machines that vibrated the body were promoted as a way to reduce fat without exercise. Users would stand or sit while the belt shook their waist or hips. These devices claimed to stimulate muscles and burn calories. Studies later confirmed that they had no significant effect on fat loss.
2. Indoor Sunlamps
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Sunlamps were used to achieve a tan indoors and were marketed as a healthy source of vitamin D. People sat under ultraviolet bulbs for several minutes at a time. Some ignored the risks of burns and long-term skin damage. The practice contributed to increased rates of skin cancer in frequent users.
3. Jogging Trend
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Jogging became widely popular as a cardiovascular exercise. People ran in parks, streets, and tracks to improve heart health. It was seen as both a social and fitness activity. Without proper shoes and training, some runners suffered from injuries.
4. Cabbage Soup Diet
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The cabbage soup diet involved eating mainly cabbage soup for several days to lose weight quickly. It was very low in calories and lacked essential nutrients. Many followers experienced temporary weight loss but regained weight afterward. Nutritionists warned it was not a sustainable or healthy diet.
5. Hot Pants Workouts
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Exercise programs promoted wearing tight, short shorts to increase calorie burn through heat and sweat. People believed the clothing helped lose fat faster. The trend was more about style than effective fitness. There is no scientific evidence that clothing affects weight loss.
6. Waterbeds for Back Support
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Waterbeds were marketed as providing better spinal support and comfort. Users claimed the mattress reduced back pain by distributing body weight evenly. However, many found them uncomfortable for sleeping. Medical experts did not recognize them as a treatment for back problems.
7. Breathing Exercises
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Some programs suggested deep or exaggerated breathing could improve metabolism and promote weight loss. Classes focused on controlled inhalation and exhalation techniques. These methods were believed to increase oxygen intake and burn fat. Research showed that breathing alone does not cause significant weight loss.
8. Sauna Suits
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Sauna suits made of plastic or rubber were worn during exercise to increase sweating. The idea was that extra sweat would help remove fat. In reality, this caused water loss and dehydration rather than fat reduction. The weight loss achieved was temporary and not fat loss.
9. Honey and Vinegar Drinks
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A mixture of honey and apple cider vinegar was claimed to improve digestion and promote weight loss. People drank it regularly as a health tonic. While vinegar has some minor digestive benefits, it does not burn fat. Excess consumption could irritate the stomach and teeth.
10. Hula Hooping
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Adults used hula hoops for exercise to tone abdominal muscles. Hoop classes and competitions were organized in gyms. It provided light physical activity and coordination practice. The effect on serious weight loss was minimal.
11. Roller Disco Workouts
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Roller skating combined with dance was popular for fitness in roller discos. It was a high-energy way to burn calories and socialize. Participants wore colorful outfits and skated to music. Beginners risked falls and injuries due to the activity’s difficulty.
12. Colon Cleansing
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Colon cleansing was promoted to remove toxins and improve digestive health. Clinics offered enemas and irrigation treatments. There was little medical evidence to support its benefits. Some procedures carried risks, including dehydration and infections.
13. Crystal Therapy
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Crystals were believed to balance energy and improve mental and physical health. People placed them on the body or wore them as jewelry. The practice was part of spiritual and alternative health trends. No scientific studies confirmed that crystals could heal the body.
14. Natural Food Co-ops
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Community co-ops sold organic and minimally processed foods. Members believed these foods were healthier than conventional options. Co-ops encouraged sustainable agriculture and local sourcing. They influenced the growth of the organic food movement.
15. Prune Juice Cleanse
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Prune juice was consumed in large quantities to relieve constipation and “cleanse” the digestive system. It was effective as a laxative but not as a detox method. Overconsumption could cause cramps and diarrhea. The practice was widely used as a home remedy.