Public Health issue warning over TikTok hydration 'challenge'

Friday 23 September 2022

A new viral trend is suggesting that drinking a gallon of water a day can lead to glowing skin, more energy and less bloating – but Jersey health officials are urging islanders to stay well away. Here’s why.

Popularised via TikTok and often involving ‘motivational’ water bottles with a drinking 'schedule', the ‘challenge’ involves drinking a gallon of water – around four-and-a-half litres – every day over the course of 30 days.

That's roughly 136 litres over a month.

But while drinking water may seem like a positive activity to promote, drinking too much can actually be harmful, particularly for children and young people.

Express has been made aware of concerns that some islanders have been trying the challenge, including some of school age.

Pictured: The type of 'motivational' bottle being sold online, which has become associated with the TikTok 30-day gallon challenge.

Excessive fluid consumption can sometimes cause a condition called hyponatremia, where kidneys cannot excrete enough water and sodium within blood is diluted, which can cause sometimes severe problems for the brain and lungs.

"While drinking water and staying hydrated is important, challenges and games that involve drinking excessive amounts can be dangerous," Jersey's Director of Public Health Peter Bradley warned.

"It is recommended islanders drink six to eight glasses of water each day," he said.

Pictured: Professor Peter Bradley urged parents to urge their children not to take part in the TikTok trend.

Given the popularity of TikTok challenges among younger islanders, he added: "I encourage parents to speak with their children and urge them to not take part in this challenge for their own safety."

This article first appeared on Bailiwick Wellbeing, your exclusive weekly guide to keeping a healthy mind, body and soul in Jersey. Sign up for free here.