THE hashtag #WaterTok has more than 120 million views on the TikTok social network. His goal ? Encourage users to drink more liquids and therefore to stay better hydrated. If the intention is a good thing and seems harmless at first glance – unlike the challenge to drink 4.5L of water a day for a month – it poses a problem for some health professionals.
Indeed, as an alternative to classic water, recipes with syrups, ice cream or even flavored powders are offered to make your drink more attractive and to drink more water. Drinks far removed from waters flavored with fresh fruit or aromatic herbs.
@beccers_gordonn Do you guys still consider this water? #watertok#water#skinnysyrups#oceanwater#watertok2023♬ COLLIDE X HOLD YUH BY ALTÉGO – ALTÉGO
But beware, these alternatives do not only have health benefits, and can have an impact on the teeth in particular. Dyes that can stain teeth, harmful acids…”Some powders and syrups may contain high levels of sugar or citric acid which can erode tooth enamel and cause tooth decay.”alerts Dr. Abdul Matin Azizi, dentist, to The Independent.
Sweeteners and cancer risk
But beyond oral health, there are still some concerns about the general health of trend-followers. “Artificial sweeteners or flavoring ingredients such as those used in powders and syrups to be mixed with water can lead to many health problems, including cardiovascular disease or possibly early diabetes.“, says the dentist. In March 2022, a study published in the journal PLOS Medicine also pointed to the increased risk of cancer linked to the consumption of sweeteners.
Often presented and marketed as “healthier” than certain sugary or carbonated drinks (because they are lower in sugar), these drinks are in fact not really so. “Look at ingredients instead of calories“, said nutritionist Silvia Micheletti. “In fact, these artificial flavors contain high levels of maltodextrins which are highly processed carbohydrates derived from starch.“, she adds. But maltodextrins, used as food thickeners, can cause a rapid increase in blood sugar and lead to various health problems from weight gain to diabetes through fatty liver disease or autoimmune diseases .
For those consuming these drinks, Dr. Abdul Matin Azizi recommends rinsing their mouths immediately after ingesting them, but above all consuming them “in moderation” and favor classic water or fresh fruit or aromatic herbs. “If you need a little flavor in your water, try a slice of lemon or other natural ingredients, which are much healthier“, concludes the dentist.
Source :
- Health experts warn against viral hydration trend on TikTok: ‘Look at the ingredients’, The IndependentApril 17, 2023