A playful TikTok trend called “dinosaur time” is drawing millions of views by encouraging people to eat more leafy greens—simply by grabbing a fistful of raw vegetables and chomping like a prehistoric creature. As social media shapes health choices in Thailand and beyond, readers may wonder whether this quirky hack is genuinely beneficial or just a passing fad. Health professionals weigh in, offering surprising insights.
The trend, popularized by a TikTok creator, features fast, unedited footage of greens being eaten in a carefree, humorous way. The approach taps into a powerful idea: reducing barriers to vegetable consumption can boost daily intake, especially among kids and teens. A dietitian from the United States notes that it’s an easy, no-prep method that resonates with people overwhelmed by cooking, making it a clever way to increase veggie consumption, even if it’s not perfect nutrition.
Why this matters for Thailand? Local health campaigns consistently report low vegetable intake in the Thai population, particularly among younger groups. National surveys show many Thais eat fewer than the World Health Organization’s recommended 400 grams of fruits and vegetables per day. This shortfall contributes to rising rates of obesity, diabetes, and related conditions. A playful trend like dinosaur time could offer a low-effort entry point for healthier eating in a fast-paced, convenience-driven culture.
Leafy greens deliver fiber, vitamins A, C, and K, and antioxidants that support brain function and reduce certain cancer risks. Yet, nutrition experts caution that eating greens alone may limit nutrient absorption, since some vitamins are fat-soluble and best absorbed with a little fat. Thai salads and dishes often pair greens with nuts, oils, or avocado to enhance absorption, a practice that aligns with the dinosaur-time idea but adds essential fat for better nutrient uptake.
Creative strategies to boost vegetable intake are supported by research. A 2025 systematic review found that enjoyable, simple interventions—like playful eating or visually appealing presentation—can increase the likelihood that children will eat vegetables. The dinosaur-time concept fits this model by making vegetable consumption feel approachable and fun. In many Thai households, families already incorporate greens into meals; the challenge is sustaining interest as lifestyles become busier.
However, pretending to be a dinosaur is not a cure-all. Some people may dislike raw greens or find the act unappealing. Nutrition experts suggest integrating greens into familiar foods—wraps, sandwiches, tacos, or smoothies—and using small, consistent additions throughout the day to accumulate benefit. The goal is habit formation, not perfection.
Thailand’s culinary heritage places vegetables at the center of everyday meals, from morning glory in stir-fries to raw vegetables alongside spicy papaya salad. Yet urban youth increasingly gravitate toward processed foods. A regional review highlights the importance of boosting fruit and vegetable intake to support healthier, sustainable diets, especially for younger generations.
Looking ahead, social media-driven hacks show promise for promoting healthier eating in schools and among young adults. Public health messaging should emphasize variety, cultural relevance, and accessibility. Programs that teach children to identify and enjoy local vegetables—through fun activities or short TikTok challenges—could help revive traditional, plant-forward eating in a modern, engaging way.
For readers embracing dinosaur time (เวลาไดโนเสาร์): if grabbing greens and acting like a dinosaur helps you eat more vegetables, give it a try. Pair greens with a nutritious dressing or a small portion of nuts or avocado to boost fat intake and nutrient absorption. Parents can use playful approaches at home to encourage children to try more vegetables, while busy office workers in Bangkok can incorporate greens into snacks or convenience meals to bridge the nutrition gap.
In sum, dinosaur time offers an entertaining route to higher veggie intake for some Thais, especially if combined with healthy fats and a varied vegetable selection. The real benefit comes when such trends spark broader improvements in eating habits at home, school, and community.
For further guidance on boosting greens intake, rely on Thailand’s public health guidance and global nutrition resources. Data from Thailand’s health authorities indicates ongoing efforts to promote healthier diets, while the World Health Organization emphasizes public diets rich in fruits and vegetables. Local nutrition clubs and accredited dietitians can provide practical, culturally relevant strategies for increasing vegetable consumption in daily life.