Several clips circulating online show people in China ‘eating’ with plastic wrap as part of a trend that’s gaining traction online.
There’s been plenty of bizarre diet trends over the years, but the latest one going viral might be the strangest yet.
A trend in China sees people placing plastic wrap in their mouths before adding food and chewing… only to spit it out afterward.
While some argue it’s simply wasting food, others believe the method may help with weight loss, even though its effectiveness remains unproven and it may pose health risks.
China’s plastic-eating diet trend explained
So how is this diet trend meant to work? Well, the idea is that simulating eating while using plastic wrap may trick the brain into feeling full or satisfied, despite not actually consuming the food.
It’s believed that the method could reduce cravings, potentially leading to weight loss. Similar to chewing gum and tricking your body into thinking you’re ‘eating.’
While it’s unclear whether this really works or not in the long term, the trend continues to gain traction online, with clips of people trying it surfacing across social media.
Unsurprisingly, not everyone is convinced. Many have even warned those considering the method against trying it.
One person wrote: “I get the idea is to curb cravings or avoid calories, but it seems like you’re just wasting food and probably not tricking your brain/body at all.”
“Plus the microplastics concern is real—studies already show plastic packaging sheds tiny particles into food/drinks, and nobody knows the long-term effects of intentionally putting it in your mouth. Probably not worth the risk,” they added.
Meanwhile, a concerned user wrote: “I really hope young people find safer ways to manage their health. That method seems like it could cause serious harm instead of helping.”
Others say you’re better off sticking to moderation and regular exercise instead of experimenting with potentially risky diet trends.
