The rise of WaterTok in 2023 has sparked a heated debate among TikTok users, with some embracing the trend and others expressing concerns. The trend involves creating and sharing water “recipes” on TikTok, where users modify plain water with sugar-free syrups and flavor packets, giving them fun names like Orange Mermaid Water or Unicorn Cotton Candy Water. The trend has gained immense popularity, with the #WaterTok hashtag amassing over 220 million views.
Tonya Spanglo, a popular TikToker, is credited with starting the trend by sharing her daily flavored water recipes. Many TikTokers have joined in, creating their own viral water recipes inspired by Tonya. However, not everyone is on board with WaterTok. Some TikTokers have expressed frustration with the trend, while others have raised concerns about the health implications of consuming these flavored waters regularly.
One area of contention is the connection between WaterTok and diet culture. While many creators do not explicitly promote their water recipes as weight-loss methods, hashtags and promotional content can blur the lines. Some experts have raised concerns about the use of artificial sweeteners in these recipes, highlighting potential health risks such as glucose intolerance and insulin resistance.
Despite the controversy, some TikTokers who have undergone bariatric surgery have voiced support for the trend, citing the benefits of flavored water in making hydration more enjoyable and combating water nausea. Dr. Supriya Rao, a medical expert, explains that water nausea can be a common issue for bariatric patients and others, and the use of sweeteners can help alleviate this discomfort.
While the debate over WaterTok continues to rage, some experts emphasize the importance of individual preferences and enjoyment when it comes to food and beverages. Registered dietitian Sam Previte believes that anything that brings pleasure to food and beverages is positive, and people should be allowed to enjoy their preferences without judgment.
As the #WaterTok trend shows no signs of slowing down, the discussions surrounding it are likely to persist. Whether you support or oppose the trend, one thing is clear: water recipes are here to stay, and the conversations around them are far from over. Share your thoughts on the WaterTok trend in the comments below! ?
