This viral TikTok challenge is putting millions in danger; here’s why

A new concerning trend that has emerged on TikTok has left experts worried about the health of many struggling with eating disorders. The #fearfoodchallenge has gone viral on the social media platform, with users filming themselves consuming foods they typically avoid. 

Originally intended as an exposure therapy technique to help those recovering from such conditions, this challenge has amassed close to 500 million views so far. 

In line with this trend, those recovering from eating disorders challenge their bravery by drawing a random food item from a ‘fear food jar.’ They then consume these foods that they fear eating the most, including highly processed foods such as burgers and chocolates. 

However, experts have warned that without proper professional guidance and support, this social media phenomenon could potentially exacerbate mental health issues and even trigger harmful behaviours. 

Neha Cadabam, senior psychologist and executive director at Cadabams Hospitals and  Mindtalk, tells indianexpress.com, “For people with eating disorders like anorexia or bulimia, these challenges can be incredibly triggering. They can lead to a rollercoaster of emotions, from intense anxiety and guilt to shame and even relapse into harmful behaviours. It’s like poking a wound that’s trying to heal.”

Why is professional supervision crucial?

You might have heard of ‘exposure therapy,’ where therapists carefully and gradually expose people to their fears to help them overcome them. Cadabam asserts, “But let’s be clear, the ‘fear food challenge’ is not therapy. It’s the wild west of exposure, without any professional supervision or support.” 

Therapists are trained to guide you through the process safely, she stresses, making sure you have the tools to cope.

For people with eating disorders like anorexia or bulimia, these challenges can be incredibly triggering. (Source: Freepik)

How this challenge can impact an individual’s nutritional health and recovery from an eating disorder

According to Ipsita Chakraborty, senior nutritionist at Hungry Koala, “For people recovering from eating disorders, this challenge might be more ‘fear’ than ‘food.’  Doing it alone can mess with your eating patterns and actually make your food anxieties worse.”  

She says that professional guidance is key for recovery. “It will help you create a safe space to tackle those food fears while making sure you’re getting the nutrients your body needs.”

Talking about the impact of negative social media response in the mental health of individuals participating in the fear food challenge, Cadabam says that words can wound, especially when you’re already feeling vulnerable. “Negative comments can amp up feelings of shame and self-doubt, making it harder for people with eating disorders to recover.” 

Importance of nutritional management in the recovery process for eating disorder

In order to conquer the fear of consuming certain food, Chakraborty advises consulting a registered dietician or therapist for a personalised plan. “They’ll create a structured meal plan that tackles your anxieties while making sure you’re getting the good stuff your body craves.”

This can further help you in the following ways, she says:

* Get your body back on track: Replenish those essential nutrients and get your body functioning at its best again.

* Boost your mood: Balanced nutrition can be a game-changer for your mood and mental well-being.

* Develop healthy habits for life: Learn how to eat in a way that feels good and is sustainable for the long haul.

Disclaimer: The copyright of this article belongs to the original author. Reposting this article is solely for the purpose of information dissemination and does not constitute any investment advice. If there is any infringement, please contact us immediately. We will make corrections or deletions as necessary. Thank you.