Around the world, around 1.8 billion people are using TikTok. That means funny cat videos, news media outlets, influencers, or just regular users are getting more views than ever. And it's not just people watching these videos, but it's also people sharing them with their friends and family.

And that's how TikTok trends start. One person does something, other share it, and all of a sudden millions of people are hopping on the bandwagon. From "Get Ready With Me (GRWN)" to "TikTok Made Me Buy It" to dance trends, the social media platform has introduced so many different challenges for people to try on their own.

Many of these trends are harmless, but some can be dangerous - and downright stupid. One of which being "No Poop July".

What is "No Poop July"?

Yes, you read that right. A TikTok trend that started in 2020 is resurfacing in July, and it's what it sounds like. Well, not exactly.

The "No Poop July" trend is intended to be a joke, with TikTok users (mostly men) pretending that they haven't taken a #2 since the beginning of the month. These videos usually show someone pretending to sweat heavily and trying not to defecate while people cheer them on, often includig how many days they've alleged held it in.

While any normal person would realize this is a joke, other people may take it seriously, especially if it means getting more likes and views.

Nowadays, everyone wants to be an influencer. They seem to live a glamorous life and many get to quit their jobs to pursue creating content full-time. And with some influencers earning $10,000 or more per post, it's no wonder people want to try to make it big on the platform.

But doctors are warning people that this "No Poop July" joke could turn dangerous if people take it seriously.

Why This Trend is Dangerous

You can probably imagine why trying to hold in your bowel movements for an extended period of time is not good for you, but doctors are emphasizing why this trend needs to stay just a joke.

The idea of holding it in can have harmful effects on your digestive system. When you force your body to avoid a natural function, such as pooping, it can lead to constipation, bloating, and discomfort.

Even more importantly, it can cause strain on your colon and interfere with your body's natural rhythm, which can lead to long-term digestive issues, including impacted bowels or hemorrhoids.

Doctors stress that the body's natural urge to go to the bathroom is a signal from the brain you shouldn't ignore.

The Most Dangerous TikTok Trends

"No Poop July" might be a joke that no one (hopefully) takes seriously, but other trends have actually gotten people into trouble.

Tide Pod Challenge

One of the most dangerous TikTok trends to date has been the "Tide Pod Challenge". What started as a dare quickly turned viral in 2018, with users (mostly teenagers), posting videos of themselves biting or even swallowing Tide Pods.

Tide Pods contain highly concentrated, toxic chemicals, and swallowing even a small amount can cause chemical burns, difficulty breathing, vomiting, and even death.

The American Association of Poison Control reported a spike in phone calls in the height of this challenge.

Benadryl Challenge

In the "Benadryl Challenge", TikTok users (again mostly teenagers) challenged themselves to take large doses of Benadryl.

Although Benadryl is generally safe when taken as directed, taking excessive amounts can lead to heart problems, seizures, extreme drowsiness, coma, or even death. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning about the dangers of the challenge, but unfortunately some didn't take it seriously.

The Benadryl Challenge claimed the life of 13-year old from Ohio. After taking between 12-14 Benadryl tablets, he started to seize. Despite being put on a ventilator in the hospital, he passed away a few days later due to critical brain damage.

The Blackout Challenge

Again, mostly teenagers participated in "The Blackout Challenge" TikTok trend. In this challenge, users would challenge themselves to cut off air supply until they pass out.

It doesn't take a doctor to tell you what happens when oxygen is cut off from your brain - fainting, brain damage, and even death. Despite the obvious risks of this challenge, many people have taken part.

Unfortunately, this challenge claimed several lives. One of which being a 10-year old girl from Colorado who died attempting the challenge in 2021. She was found unresponsive in her bedroom after choking herself with a belt.