Why trying the TikTok trend ‘dry scooping’ before your workout is a terrible idea

Also read: Whey or protein, which should you choose for your workouts?

However, the online trend, which has gained a lot of popularity online, is not something safe for one to do, and experts are increasingly warning people to not try such a hack, which can be dangerous to one’s health. We tell you why

What does dry scooping mean? What does the challenge entail?

Dry scooping refers to the use of protein powder in its natural form, i.e. without mixing it with anything else. The dry scooping challenge, which has become popular on social media is a challenge wherein people who workout are to consume a scoopful of protein powder in its dry form, or without diluting it with milk or water. The challenge which is becoming popular is also said to “boost” workout performance, offer more energy and benefits and most of all, improve the results from exercising.

Why dry scooping before your workouts could be mean bad news for your health

Now, protein powders are an essential workout enhancer and nutrition supplement which can, no doubt, give you a lot of energy and fuel to power through workouts. However, they are meant to be diluted or mixed with either water or milk and only then deemed fit for consumption. The reason being, the nutritional composition present in them. Since protein powders essentially are made up of a lot of amino acids, vitamins, creatinine extracts, sweeteners, having them in a dry form, or without diluting them could lead to potentially unpleasant side-effects. Remember, amino acids can be hard to digest if you do have them directly and need to be consumed in a proper manner. Dry scooping such essential ingredients may not only lead to health issues, but also give no benefits.

Protein powders also tend to have a high quantity of caffeine in them. Again, having almost 150-200 mg of caffeine per scoop, in a dry form can cause a lot of poor health problems including dizziness, anxiety, palpitations and not to forget, insomnia. Consuming these blends , without actually mixing them , which are recommended guidelines may also cause breathing difficulties, coughing, choking and other considerable health risks, since you would inhale them and not actually swallow them.

Workout enhancers, including protein powders can also have traces of some additives, stimulants, which aren’t safe for consumption either. Hence, dry scooping is a social media trend which can prove incredibly problematic, and induce health issues. Trying on the trend, for the sake of a silly social media fad, not to forget can be mentally daunting as well.

Hidden dangers of protein powders

While protein powders are largely safe and healthy, there can be some hidden dangers which means that one must absolutely practice caution and discretion before use. Coming to the health quotient, some protein powders can often have excessively high sugars and calories per scoop. So, even if you really do mix them with milk, for example, you can actually raise your calorie consumption, and have more than you actually need. Exceeding the intake of protein powders can also be bad for your kidneys in the long run. Thus, it’s thoroughly important to follow proper dietary guidelines, study the labels carefully and be mindful of the quantity you consume. There are also safer alternatives in the form of plant-based protein powders, or actual foods which may help fulfill your protein requirements before heading for your workout.

What’s the best way to consume protein powder?

According to experts, the real difference between protein shakes mixed in water or milk lies in your own personal preference and the fitness goal you want to achieve- whether you want a bulked-up body, gain muscle mass or simply lose weight, flab and build on lean muscles. While protein, in its entirety, is good for the body, if you are sensitive or suffer from a dairy allergy, having it with milk might not be the best option for you as it can cause much more problems later. On the other hand, having it with plain water may not suit everybody’s taste. Knowing the fitness goal you have in mind will make you choose wisely.