*A new TikTok trend known as the “watermelon diet” is gaining momentum, with users attempting to eat only watermelon for up to seven days in hopes of shedding weight.
While the fruit is hydrating and low in calories, health experts are sounding the alarm about the dangers of this restrictive approach.
“You may initially feel better due to eliminating certain foods—such as processed and ultra-processed foods and drinks—that could lead to fluid retention, weight gain, inflammation, bloating, headaches, gas, indigestion, fatigue, or other symptoms,” said Julia Zumpano, RD, of the Cleveland Clinic, per Very Well Health.
While the watermelon diet may lead to short-term weight loss, it’s likely unsustainable, and any weight lost will probably be regained after stopping the diet.
Tommy Lor, RD, of Keck Medicine of USC, echoed similar concerns. “You’re cutting out a bunch of foods, and these challenges usually promise quick results. But they’re not very sustainable, and they can make it hard to maintain progress over time,” he said.
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Shonali Soans, MS, RD, CDN, of Weill Cornell Medicine, warned that the watermelon diet may be especially dangerous for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, those with a history of disordered eating, insulin resistance, mental health conditions, or anyone recovering from surgery.
“Every cell in our body requires these nutrients to function efficiently, including the cells of our liver and kidneys, which are our bodies’ detox organs,” said Soans. “If we want to detox well, we need to nourish our cells with adequate nutrition from all food groups.”
Sticking to the diet too long could lead to malnutrition, kidney issues, diarrhea, dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and increased cortisol levels, experts say.
“Very restrictive diets can negatively impact our relationship with food as well as our hunger and satiety cues,” Soans said.
