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Weight Loss Wonders or Woes? The Extremes Celebs Go to, Including Swallowing Tapeworms!
Hey, we get it. With the swarm of diet trends buzzing around, it’s almost impossible to keep track. But have you ever stumbled upon a diet so bizarre, it made your jaw drop? Welcome to the ultimate roundup of weight loss plans that are as weird as they are shocking. We promise, you’ve never seen anything quite like this before!We live in a world where every other day, there's a new "life-changing" diet popping up. From celebrities to influencers, it seems like everyone’s got their unique, "secret" recipe to drop those pounds. But hold your horses because these aren’t your everyday low-carb or vegan diets. No, these are the diets that make you scratch your head and wonder, “People really do THAT?”We’re talking about munching plans so astonishing that you might need to pick your jaw up off the floor. Have you ever heard whispers of a diet dictated by the moon, or a meal plan that has you reaching for the ice tray rather than the spice rack? Or maybe one that lets you eat as much as you want, but only of one specific food? Intrigued yet? Well, you should be! You’re not just about to uncover some of the most astonishing diets the world has ever seen, but also face some uncomfortable truths. Will you find the holy grail of weight loss or a comically absurd eating plan? There’s only one way to find out! 1. Swallowing TapewormsProbably one of the craziest - and most dangerous - diets is the tapeworm diet. This weight-loss “strategy” is as shocking as it sounds! Imagine, instead of hitting the gym or adopting a healthy diet, you opt to swallow a pill containing a tapeworm egg. As the critter hatches and grows inside you, it feasts on your meals, supposedly munching away all those "extra" calories. You, in turn, supposedly shed pounds effortlessly. Sounds easy and... utterly repulsive, right? But here's the catch: it's not only utterly grotesque but gravely dangerous!
Doble-d/Getty Images/iStockphotoThe tapeworm diet has old roots, coming from the Victorian Era. Back then, women wanted to look pale and thin, like those with tuberculosis. To get that look, they used tight corsets and even ingested small doses of poison. One of the risky choices was eating tapeworms. Nowadays, with all our knowledge, it's surprising anyone would try this diet. It can cause many health problems, including infections and even brain issues that could lead to dementia. Moreover, there's a twisted irony: while you think you've outsourced your calorie consumption to this parasitic tenant, it might actually boost your appetite, especially for carbs. So, next time someone offers a "magic" pill or diet, remember the tapeworm tale and think twice. Stick to greens and a good old jog instead!2. Eating Cotton Balls In the wild world of weight loss tactics, the cotton ball diet stands out as a bizarre and perilous trend. Imagine: to suppress their hunger and dramatically reduce daily calorie intake, individuals soak cotton balls in juice and consume them. As unusual and unpalatable as it sounds, it's also incredibly risky. Born in the modeling realm where runway-ready bodies are at a premium, this "diet" offers the illusion of feeling satiated without the calories of actual food. But here's where the glamour ends and the grim reality begins.
2018 ShutterstockWhile the idea of potentially losing a pound per day might sound tempting, remember that the baby food diet is a fad. Sure, baby foods often come packed with fruits and veggies, and they're pretty low in sodium and fat. But they're not designed for adults! They lack the calories, protein, and fiber that grown-ups need. Moreover, the calorie content of these baby meals can vary wildly, meaning you could be getting anywhere between 280 to a whopping 1,680 calories a day. Sure, slurping down baby food might be a fun conversation starter at a dinner party, but for a sustainable and nutritious weight-loss plan? Maybe it's time to leave the baby steps behind and walk towards a balanced diet and regular exercise.4. Elvis’ “Sleeping Beauty” DietImagine believing that the secret to weight loss is... well, sleeping your days away. Sounds like a fairy tale, right? This wild idea was none other than Elvis Presley's "sleeping beauty" diet. The King thought, "Hey, if I'm asleep, I can't munch on those peanut butter-banana sandwiches!" So, he went all-in: heavy sedatives and a Vegas "doctor" to keep him in a drug-induced slumber. The goal? Shed those pounds in dreamland.
Bettmann Archive/gettyimages.comBut, in the harsh light of day, the professionals named this risky approach "narcorexia". Taking drugs to snooze and lose? Big no-no. Not only does it come with scary side effects, but it's also a snooze-fest when it comes to results. Our metabolism dips while we snooze. The best advice? Stick to the good old recipe: enough sleep and some exercise. But as for Elvis, his larger-than-life persona had some larger-than-life ideas about diets, and his weight remains a poignant part of his legendary tale.5. Eating AirReady for the ultimate in bizarre diet trends? Move over, baby food and sleeping beauty diets; the "Air Diet" has entered the scene, and it's as wild as it sounds. Conceived by the French, the diet's philosophy is shockingly simple: eat absolutely nothing. That's right, just breathe in the essence of a prepared meal. Imagine whipping up your favorite dish, letting its mouth-watering aroma waft over you... and then, well, just smelling it. While you're technically "eating" the steam or air above your meal, the only real consumption is a soup of water and salt. Surprisingly, a French magazine even praised this diet as a 'good' way to lose weight.
Getty Images/skynesherHowever, before you embrace your inner air-gourmet, there's a catch. Does it work? If by "work," you mean risking your health, then yes. Only consuming air, with the occasional water and salt soup, deprives your body of essential nutrients. Potential side effects? Think fatigue, hunger pangs, a sluggish metabolism, and possible eating disorders. So, if you're tempted by this weight-loss method that's lighter than air, perhaps consult a doctor first. And maybe keep that delicious meal on standby.6. Eating Blue Foods Only"Eyes bigger than your stomach?" Well, the Vision Diet takes that phrase to the next level! Straight from the inventive minds of Japan, this quirky diet centers around how you see your food, quite literally.
The first approach equips you with blue-tinted glasses. The theory? Foods that tempt us are typically in the red/yellow spectrum (hello, fast-food logos!). Blue glasses, therefore, cast a less appealing hue over your meal, potentially diminishing your desire to devour. But, if blue burgers aren't your thing, there's another tech-savvy approach: virtual reality glasses that play with food sizes. By magnifying the appearance of your portion, the idea is that you'll feel full faster and eat less. In fact, some studies suggest you might consume 10% less with this visual trick. But here's the catch: while the techy glasses show promise, only the blue ones are available—and they're not quite the magic ticket to weight loss. So next time you're about to binge, maybe just try squinting a bit?7. Chewing Food & Spitting It OutLooking for an unusual way to "enjoy" your food without any of the delicious consequences? Enter the "Chewing Diet," or as some experts label it, the Chew and Spit (CHSP) disorder. Here's the intriguing, or rather, jaw-dropping premise: chew your favorite dishes to your heart's content but spit it all out before swallowing. Originally intended as a calorie dodgeball, it’s essentially eating without "eating". But wait, there's a twist! While it might seem like a clever hack, those indulging in this culinary tease can encounter some not-so-sweet after-effects. From dental woes to the rebellion of stomach acids, and even the ironic potential of weight gain, it's a diet that might just leave a bitter aftertaste.
Granger Wootz/Blend Images LLC Surprisingly, while some embrace CHSP as a solo act, many tend to pair it up with other concerning behaviors, from excessive exercise to restrictive diets. And though CHSP isn't officially stamped with the "eating disorder" title in the medical books, the symptoms align all too well. But for anyone looking to dance this precarious tango between taste and waste, a word to the wise: perhaps savoring the flavors and embracing mindful eating is the real recipe for health and happiness. After all, there's more to food than just a fleeting chew!8. The Cabbage Soup DietHold onto your soup spoons because the world of diets has cooked up another tantalizing dish: the Cabbage Soup Diet. Sounds simple, right? For seven days, you're promised a head-spinning weight drop of 10 to 15 pounds, just by slurping this leafy concoction. But here's where things get spicy: this isn't some magical veggie broth. It's a classic example of a quick-fix diet that promises rapid results by focusing almost religiously on a single food item.
Elena Zapassky/IenazapNow, as enchanting as it may sound, guzzling down gallons of cabbage soup isn’t the golden ticket to long-term weight loss. While cabbage has its health perks, relying on its soup version might leave you with more than just a bland aftertaste. Side effects can range from dizziness to a growling tummy, and there's a plot twist – some folks regain even more weight post-diet. So, if you're pondering a foray into the Cabbage Soup Diet realm, remember: it's always best to season any diet plan with a pinch of skepticism and a healthy serving of expert advice.9. Dessert with BreakfastImagine a world where the solution to weight loss is nestled between two chocolate chips! Enter the Cookie Diet, a plan that promises slimming success one cookie bite at a time. The brainchild of Dr. Sanford Siegal from the 1970s, this diet serves up specialized cookies jam-packed with proteins and fibers, minus the caloric guilt-trips of their sinful counterparts. So, instead of feasting on regular meals, you're munching on these nutritious delights and, guess what? You’re still shedding those pounds.
2021 ShutterstockHowever, before you ditch your salad bowl for a cookie jar, here's the 'crunchy' truth: These aren't your grandma's secret recipe cookies. They're specifically formulated, working to keep your hunger pangs at bay and ensuring you get essential nutrients. Different versions like the Hollywood Cookie Diet or the Smart for Life Cookie Diet have also joined the cookie carnival, offering variety to the mix. So, is it worth giving this diet a whirl? Maybe. But remember, while cookies may sound like a delicious path to weight loss, always consult with a healthcare professional before embarking on any diet. And maybe, just maybe, keep that salad bowl around too.10. The Drunk DietAh, college days! When the dreaded "Freshman 15" hung over our heads like a looming deadline and the thought of piling on pounds seemed scarier than an upcoming exam. Meg Fee, who started a sobriety blog called You Don’t Have To Drink Today after noticing unhealthy drinking patterns in her social life, certainly felt that pressure. Instead of devouring dinner before heading out to fraternity parties, she 'reserved' her calories for, well, alcohol. Sounds like a college twist on 'dinner and drinks,' right? But as the night wore on and inhibitions lowered, pizza slices stealthily made their way into her diet. Fee's strategy was dubbed "drunkorexia" - a blend of drinking and anorexic tendencies, where liquid courage took precedence over solid meals.
Junjira Konsang/ EyeEm/ Getty ImagesBut let's uncork the truth: Drunkorexia isn’t your run-of-the-mill college folly. Beneath the surface, it's a serious interplay of eating disorders and alcohol use. As Ashlee Knight, a mental health counselor, points out, alcohol is far from "nutrient-dense." In fact, it's poison. The calories from a greasy late-night burger might not be ideal, but they sure offer more than those from a vodka soda. So next time you think about trading your lunch for a liquid diet, remember: there's more to health than dodging calories – there's nourishing your body and mind. Cheers to that! 11. Eating Clay In Hollywood's ever-quirky world of diet trends, the latest buzz is about the Clay Diet. Yep, you read that right! Celebrities like Shailene Woodley and Zoe Kravitz are now opting for a... um, earthy beverage, mixing edible clay into their drinks. As this clay (allegedly) voyages through the body, it's said to carry away toxins and even suppress hunger.
2018 Iryna Kaliukina/ShutterstockBut before you contemplate trading your morning smoothie for a clay cocktail, here's the scoop. Top nutrition experts, including Dr. Toby Amidor, wave a red flag, cautioning that ingesting non-food items can damage our insides. Not to mention, this clay could snatch away much-needed nutrients from our systems. So, while clay might work wonders in art class, as a diet? It's a tad muddy.12. Urine InjectionsIn the wild realm of diet trends, there's a bizarre new player on the block: injecting yourself with urine from pregnant women. Yes, you read that right. Boston's news reports are buzzing with this unusual weight-loss regimen where individuals limit their intake to just 500 calories a day and complement it with daily injections of this special "golden" fluid. The goal? To purportedly shed a pound daily. The urine isn't just any ordinary one; it's packed with a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) which, when introduced to non-pregnant bodies, tricks them into believing they're pregnant, resulting in a hastened metabolism.
Pheelings Media/Getty Images/iStockphotoBut before you consider swapping your breakfast burrito for a lungful of fresh air, take heed. While some enthusiasts claim enlightening experiences and significant weight loss, medical experts are raising a cautionary flag. Dr. Rick Miller, a dietitian, paints a chilling picture of potential health consequences, from a drop in blood pressure to fatal risks. And let's not forget about Brynn Byrne, a former breatharian aspirant, who viewed the diet as a tempting escape from her eating disorder. In the dieting world filled with colorful tales and claims, Breatharianism surely stands out, but it might be wise to remember the old saying: "Don't bite off more than you can chew." Or in this case, breathe.14. The Lemon Detox DietAh, the allure of detox! The Master Cleanse, a zesty concoction from the 1940s, also dubbed the "lemonade diet", promises just that. Dive into this liquid dream for 10 days, sipping on a blend of lemon, maple syrup, and cayenne pepper, and presto! You're expected to feel cleansed, rejuvenated, and lighter. But here's the twist: while you might imagine yourself sashaying in the sunlight, absorbing nature's cosmic energy, there's a teeny catch. Medical experts have a different perspective. This tantalizing diet may see you shedding weight, but it's possibly more to do with the meager 650 calories you're consuming daily than any magical detoxifying properties. And those hunger pangs? They won't be whispering; they'll be belting out Broadway numbers!
2019 Andrey_Nikitin/ShutterstockThe diet's champions might paint a picture of vitamin-rich lemons cleansing your system. Still, experts raise an eyebrow, cautioning against prolonged fasting and the risk of nutrient deficiency. Let's not even delve into the nightly laxative tea ritual – yes, that's on the menu too. So, while some may be tempted to follow in the footsteps of this vintage cleanse, it might be worth remembering that not all that glitters (or in this case, zests) is gold. When life gives you lemons, maybe just make lemonade the old-fashioned way!15. Drinking a Brew from Slaughterhouse ByproductsIn the world of bizarre diets, the 70s gifted us the unforgettable “Last Chance Diet,” a brainchild of Dr. Roger Linn. It wasn't just about cutting out sugar or carbs; instead, enthusiasts were to sip on Prolinn, a unique brew composed of pre-digested animal remnants like horns, hooves, and hides. Yes, you read that right! This “miracle” drink, presenting a paltry 400 calories daily, not only lacked essential nutrients but also came with a side effect no one ordered - heart attacks. At least 58 brave souls trying to shed pounds met with this grim outcome.
Jody Miller/ FlickrWhile the name "Last Chance Diet" might sound like a dramatic title for a blockbuster movie, its implications were all too real. The diet’s allure was its promise of rapid weight loss, achieved by simulating the effects of starvation. As the body went into a desperate fat-burning mode, it was also cannibalizing essential muscle and organ tissues, thanks to the poor quality of the protein in Prolinn. Result? A cocktail of severe tissue loss, electrolyte imbalances, and abnormal heart rhythms. Moral of the story: If a diet sounds too wild to be true, it probably is, and it's best to steer clear!16. Eating Ice to Burn CaloriesOh, the wonders of the internet, where even your chilly glass of ice water can be marketed as the ultimate weight loss solution! Enter the "Ice Hack Diet" that's creating ripples online, suggesting you can shed those extra pounds simply by drinking icy water and popping some intriguingly named supplements. The crux? Boost your metabolism by lowering your inner body temperature. Cue the Alpilean supplement, with ingredients ranging from golden algae to drumstick tree leaf. While the icy premise might sound cool (pun intended), experts raise their eyebrows.
2021 Peter Kai/ShutterstockThe science behind this frosty trend is, well, rather thin. Yes, our bodies burn calories warming up cold things, but the potential weight loss from gulping down an Arctic-like drink? It's negligible at best. Not to mention, the so-called "miracle" supplement contains ingredients that experts find dubious. Some of the ingredients might just be a chilly breeze away from causing potential harm. And while icy water might be refreshing on a hot day, relying on it as a magical weight-loss elixir might just leave you out in the cold. Stick to balanced diets and regular exercise – because, in the end, no diet can replace good old-fashioned health habits!17. Drinking VinegarIn the ever-evolving world of diets, few have raised eyebrows quite like the apple cider vinegar diet. This pungent potion, revered for millennia as a health tonic, has suddenly been catapulted into the limelight as a supposed weight-loss wonder. Devotees swear by a daily dose of 1-2 tablespoons, believing it can suppress appetites and melt away pounds. Yet, the science behind these claims is murky at best. While some studies hint at appetite suppression, they're wildly inconsistent and hinge on very specific acetic acid concentrations—which your store-bought bottle might not have.
2013 BloombergHowever, it's not all sour news. Beyond the diet fad, apple cider vinegar can offer some health benefits, from improving insulin sensitivity to lowering blood sugar after meals. Just be cautious of embracing it as a weight-loss miracle. Like many diets, it may sound simple and enticing, but the reality is more complex. If weight loss is the goal, pairing any diet with balanced nutrition and exercise remains the tried-and-true formula.18. The Grapefruit DietThe Grapefruit Diet is like an old Hollywood legend. Imagine eating lots of grapefruit and believing it has some special power to melt away pounds. The big claim? Drop 10 pounds in just 12 days! Sounds amazing, right? But wait, where's the proof? Turns out, it's a bit thin on the ground.
Aleksandr Zubkov/Moment/Getty Images/Livestrong.comNow, here's the twist. Some versions of this diet suggest eating only 800 calories a day. That's very little! So, if people did lose weight, it might be because they were eating way less, not because of the grapefruit's magic touch. And who would've thought? This fruit-focused diet even gives a thumbs-up to daily bacon! It's a wild ride in the world of diets, but it's always good to question the hype and look for the real facts.19. Hard Boiled Eggs OnlySo, you've heard of eating your eggs sunny side up, scrambled, or poached. But have you ever considered munching on hard-boiled eggs...all the time? Welcome to the boiled-egg diet! Some celebs have sworn by it, with Nicole Kidman reportedly gulping down these oval goodies before her role in "Cold Mountain". And let's not even get started on Charles Saatchi, the ex-hubby of culinary queen Nigella Lawson.
2014 Sea Wave/ShutterstockBut hold onto your egg cups! While eggs are undoubtedly nutritious and packed with protein, making them the star of every meal might be, well, a bit much. It's like setting up an egg-centric universe where everything else revolves around it. Feeling egg-cited or just a tad bit egg-sasperated? Dive in, but maybe not egg-sclusively.20. Aligning Eating with the MoonIf you've ever dreamt of channeling your inner werewolf (sans the furry transformation) while shedding some weight, the "Werewolf Diet" might just be your ticket. This eccentric diet revolves around our moon's phases, promising to help you drop a whopping 6 lbs in a mere 24 hours! Now, before you swap your daily planner for a lunar calendar, you might be wondering: can dancing to the moon's tune really help you slim down? Well, according to the lore, the gravitational pull of the moon impacts water weight in our bodies, leading to a quicker release of toxins and fats. But here's the twist: some of Hollywood's elite, like Madonna and Demi Moore, are allegedly moonlighting with this diet.
Yaorusheng/Getty ImagesThe phases of the moon play a crucial role in this diet. During a full or new moon, you go on a 24-hour liquid fast, cleansing your system of those pesky toxins. Then, as the moon wanes, you hydrate and munch on solid foods, supposedly curbing those nocturnal cookie cravings. But just when you thought it was safe to chow down, the new moon hits, and it's back to fluids, with metabolism-boosting green tea as the elixir of choice. As the moon waxes, however, you're on high alert, staving off sudden cravings and avoiding late-night snacking. While the scientific jury is still out on whether or not moonlit munchies are a thing, it's worth noting that any diet promising rapid weight loss, especially one tied to celestial cycles, should be approached with a touch of skepticism and a chat with a medical professional. So, the next time you're gazing up at the night sky, perhaps ponder the Werewolf Diet's potential before you decide to feast... or fast. 21. Consuming Activated CharcoalForget green juices and lemon detoxes; the latest bizarre trend in town is literally pitch-black! Picture this: people gulping down activated charcoal, a powdery substance that looks like what remains after a campfire, all in the name of detox. Originating from sources like coconut shells or bone char, this charcoal isn't your backyard barbecue kind. It's "supercharged" by high heat to cling onto toxins in your gut like a magnet, historically making it the unsung hero in emergency rooms for poisoning cases.
Trexdigital/iStockBut here's where it gets wild: while it's a champ at snagging those nasty toxins, it's also a little overeager. This ravenous powder can't tell the difference between a harmful drug and essential nutrients or your daily meds. So, while you think you're on a health kick, you might be accidentally flushing out the good stuff too. And if that wasn’t shocking enough, some users have reported...wait for it...black stools, constipation, and even an unexpected vomit fest! Always keen on a health trend? It's best to think twice and maybe consult a doc before jumping on this dark and mysterious detox train.22. Coffee With ButterEver thought of starting your day with coffee mixed with butter? Welcome to the world of Bulletproof Coffee! This blend, favorited by keto fans and even some celebs, promises perks like increased alertness and quick weight loss. Here's the scoop: you whip up coffee, MCT oil, and grass-fed butter to create a frothy morning drink.
2015 ThamKC/ShutterstockSounds tasty, right? But while it might give you a buzz, nutritionists raise eyebrows at its hefty calorie and saturated fat content. And for those hoping it could replace breakfast, think again. Despite its hype, this buttery brew falls short of delivering the balanced nutrients you'd get from a wholesome morning meal. So, enjoy your sip, but maybe not every sunrise.23. No More ChewingRoll out the red carpet for the Hollywood 48-Hour Miracle Diet! Promising a dazzling weight loss of up to 10 lbs. in two days, this diet's secret weapon? A special "miracle juice"! The catch? It's the only thing you'll be sipping on, and, trust me, you'll miss chewing. While the ingredients sound like a fruity fiesta with pineapple, apple, and a medley of other delicious fruits, the calorie count is shockingly low at just 400 a day. 
Petri OeschgerStars like January Jones and Alicia Silverstone have given the trend a nod, and now, there's a growing market for placenta smoothies and encapsulated pills. The claims? Boosted energy, enhanced milk production, and even warding off post-natal depression. Critics, however, challenge its safety and nutritional value. One thing's for certain: whether you're blending it, frying it as a pate, or popping it as a pill, placentophagy sure is one juicy topic! 25. Oil Sipping DietEver dreamt of a diet where indulgence wasn't a sin, and your chocolate-covered donuts didn't have to hide in shame? Enter the Shangri-La Diet, courtesy of psychology professor, Seth Roberts. The recipe? A mere daily chug of 200-500 calories of flavorless oil, and you're allowed to feast on any delicacy your heart desires.
Dulezidar/Getty Images/iStockphotoRoberts posits that sipping oils like the discreet extra-light olive or canola sends your appetite on a vacation, tricking your brain into disassociating calorie-packed foods from their punchy flavors. So, in essence, you guzzle some oil, shush your hunger, and still chomp down on that pizza slice! Sounds idyllic? Perhaps, but with the lack of substantial scientific backing, one has to wonder if it's a gateway to a food paradise or just another slippery slope!26. The Cigarette DietStep aside, keto and paleo, here's a weight loss strategy that literally went up in smoke! Back in the roaring '20s, Lucky Strike presented a fiery diet proposition: Why munch when you can puff? Their blazing logic? Nicotine, the star ingredient of cigarettes, played hard to get with your appetite. 
