Another day, another dollar, and another silly life-threatening TikTok trend. Unfortunately, they will never end these challenges until regulations are implemented. But for now, let’s discover the dangers of dry scooping and hope this information can positively influence an effective deterrent.

What is Dry Scooping?

Dry scooping is dumping a scoop of pre-workout powder in your mouth, without water or just a swig of water- practically swallowing it dry. Water is added to these powders to dilute and absorb them into the bloodstream at a steady rate. And also to prevent the stomach from burning.

Dry scooping produces an enhanced effect because, without water, it speeds up the absorption rate instantly. It seems to work because, recently, many cases have caused respiratory and cardiovascular problems from this trend. It landed one 20-year-old girl in the hospital suffering from a heart attack.

Is Dry Scooping Bad for Your Health?

So far, there are no deaths linked to it. But the risk of death and harm is exceptionally high. For example, the stimulants like caffeine and Ma Huang can cause your blood pressure and heart rate to soar into danger zones. Powder caffeine is equivalent to about 4 to 5 cups of coffee in one shot. And with Ma Huang, many pills and powders have about three times more than the RDA limits.

Another risk that can occur is choking. Instead of using water with the powder, it can cause you to choke and be accidentally be inhaled into your lungs due to the dryness.

What is really bad for you and the real problem is TikTok and the lack of common sense. There should be bans on TikTok challenges that endanger lives. TikTok is too impressionable among teens, and teens don’t have enough common sense just yet.

Guidelines for Pre-Workout Powders

Most powders are packed with substances like caffeine, Ma Huang, or their proprietary blend, as well as various others to stimulate your nervous and cardiovascular system. Their purpose is to provide a sustainable supercharge of energy to your systems.

Suppose you do want to use a pre-workout powder. Follow these guidelines.

• Use the proper dosage with water. Follow the instructions.
• Be curious and cautious of what is in the brands proprietary blend and investigate what it is before you take it.
• Understand the content and RDA of the substances. For example, some products have 2-3 times more Ma Huang in their formula, which contains ephedra. About 20mg is ok. However, there have been adverse effects from 35mg , such as stroke, arrhythmia, and seizures.
• See if a specific reputable organization endorses and recommends the product.

Most people don’t know that all supplements, from vitamins to pre-workout powders, even those you buy from GNC, are not regulated by the FDA. Just look on the back of any bottle or bag from GNC, and you will read it in small print. And along with the lack of FDA regulation comes the adage, use at your own risk and talk to a doctor before consumption, as a general liability to protect the manufacturer.

However, they seem to be safe. But, not much research is invested into these products to determine long-term effects.

Most people see dry scooping as a harmless, fun, challenging trend. But, the real danger is TikTok. There is a big mass potential of harm they can cause from their seemingly innocent and fun challenges that are very daring and risky to your health and life.

However, if you’re going to use pre-workout powder, use it properly. The benefits of the powder will be the same in 15 minutes rather than instantly. And if it is going to be the same, why risk your life.