2024 was a year of diseases, year of health achievements, and also the year of many viral health hacks and trends! TikTok, the China-based social media platform that allows users to create, share, and discover short-form videos, maintained its quick ascent to prominence as a force behind cultural trends. As the Supreme Court heard arguments for its future in the US, the platform continued to be a focal point for health trends, both positive and negative. While there were some healthcare professionals who turned into digital creators, there were some absolutely mind boggling hacks shared by people in general. Once again, TikTok proved that it is more than just a social networking site; it is a trend-setter.Here are some of the biggest health trends that took over TikTok in 2024: A Snow Cream SensationThe first cold trend started by actress Reese Witherspoon was making "snowcream"—homemade ice cream prepared from freshly fallen snow. On TikTok, people offered recipes for chocolate syrup, condensed milk, vanilla, and snow.But the trend quickly became a controversial topic. Health experts suggested being cautious before participating since snow can carry poisons and pollutants. What advice do they give? If you can't avoid it, remove only the top layer of snow after a storm to lessen the risk.The 'Mystery Virus' PanicAs with early pandemic forecasts, TikTok became a safe refuge for concerns about an unidentified illness. Discussions were triggered by videos showing persons with negative COVID test results claiming to have flu-like symptoms.The good news though, as mentioned above too, many medical influencers stepped in and dispelled myths which also drew attention to other common diseases like RSV and enterovirus. It demonstrated how physicians are increasingly adopting TikTok to directly challenge falsehoods.Sleepmaxxing ObsessionHaving trouble getting to sleep? You're not by yourself. The "sleepmaxxing" craze, which TikTokers elevated, revolves around creating intricate bedtime rituals.Users shared some of the range of therapies that they have tried themselves, including red light therapy, magnesium supplements, mouth tape, and white noise generators. Experts however emphasized more on the consistent bedtimes and advised against spending money on experiments.Ballet BodyTikTok promoted the "ballet body"—a toned, thin form resembling ballerinas—as weight-loss medicines like Ozempic gained popularity. When influencers disclosed their diet and fitness routines, they received both praise and criticism.Others warned about encouraging unattainable physical ideals, particularly among individuals who struggle with body image issues, while others appreciated the appearance. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to health, as medical professionals told viewers.Olympic Fever Body Positivity The 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, particularly in women's sports, have generated a rush of good health. Athletes such as rugby champion Ilona Maher used viral films to combat preconceptions and push for body acceptance.On TikTok, sports material exploded—#WomenInSports increased by 2,400%—demonstrating that physical attractiveness is not the only driver for health. Perhaps it's about being resilient, persistent, and accepting of different perspectives.Cucumber CrazeSimplicity is preferred in some cases. @logagm, a TikTok creator, revived cucumbers with sauces, cheeses, and spices. Cucumbers, often known as "nature's Ozempic," have emerged as a popular snack among health-conscious customers.Although cucumbers include fibre and water, experts cautioned viewers that no one meal is a miracle weight-loss solution. Regardless, supermarkets continued to run out of stock as the trend gained popularity.Tadpole Water TrendThe "tadpole water" fad of 2024 featured chia seeds and lemon water and was marketed as a weight-loss remedy. TikTok users were attracted by the gelatinous seeds, but experts quickly dismissed the claims.Although chia seeds are abundant in fibre and vitamins, they are not a weight-loss aid. Dietitians recommended using them in conjunction with regular exercise and a healthy diet for long-term results.The Sleepy Girl MocktailIf hearing about “Girl Math” was not enough, TikTok users also invented "sleepy girl mocktail". Now it is nothing like "Girl Math", but a concoction of sour cherry juice, magnesium, and seltzer that promotes better sleep. Fans attest to its effectiveness, but experts warn that it should not be used in place of good sleep hygiene.Despite the drink's potential advantages, experts advise consumers to prioritise routines over sticking plaster solutions, such setting screen time limits and sticking to a regular schedule.