#Viraltrends

A simple walking technique developed in Japan nearly two decades ago is taking the global fitness scene by storm, touted as an accessible way to lower blood pressure, strengthen leg muscles, and improve heart health—no gym required. Known as “Japanese Walking” or Interval Walking Training (IWT), the method alternates three minutes of brisk walking with three minutes of slower recovery walking, repeated five times for a total of 30 minutes. Scientific studies now back its claims, showing marked benefits, especially among older adults, sparking a viral trend that is reaching Thailand and much of Southeast Asia.

A compact walking routine from Japan is gaining traction as a practical, low-cost way to lower blood pressure, strengthen legs, and improve heart health—without a gym. Known as Japanese Walking or Interval Walking Training (IWT), it alternates three minutes of brisk walking with three minutes of slower recovery walking, repeated five times for 30 minutes. Research from multiple countries supports its benefits, with strong results among older adults, helping the trend spread to Thailand and Southeast Asia.

A viral TikTok trend claiming that a large Coke and fries from McDonald’s can “cure” migraines has ignited widespread debate among doctors and health authorities, prompting new warnings about the dangers of relying on fast food as a health remedy. The so-called ‘McMigraine Meal’ first gained mainstream traction in May 2025, after a US-based neurologist described the fast-food fix as a “miraculous” solution for her chronic migraines. Her video, which has amassed nearly 10 million views, has spurred countless social media testimonials from migraine sufferers who say the combination offers at least temporary relief. However, medical experts have strongly cautioned that while some elements of the meal may have a short-lived impact, the overall approach could be risky—and for many, ultimately counterproductive.

A viral TikTok claim that a large Coke and fries from McDonald’s can cure migraines has sparked concern among Thai doctors and health officials. The trend surged in May 2025 after a U.S. neurologist described the fast-food fix as “miraculous.” With millions viewing the clip and numerous testimonials claiming temporary relief, experts warn that while some elements may offer brief respite, using fast food as medicine is risky and counterproductive.

A new online wellness craze—drinking unpasteurized raw milk—has spread far beyond its origins, reaching Thai social media and everyday conversations. Medical professionals warn that the supposed benefits are unproven and that raw milk can cause serious, sometimes life-threatening infections, especially for children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. Public health experts emphasize that pasteurization is a proven safeguard against dangerous pathogens, and there is no medical justification to forgo it.

The trend gained momentum in Western circles early last year as influencers framed raw milk as a natural, “back-to-nature” choice. International coverage and celebrity endorsements have helped fuel interest in several countries, including Thailand, where online communities discuss the practice. Thai health authorities urge caution, noting that the perceived “natural” appeal should not override safety considerations.

The Internet’s latest viral wellness obsession—drinking unpasteurized “raw” milk—has fueled a surge in demand worldwide, including on Thai social media platforms, but medical professionals are raising urgent concerns over its serious health risks. With raw milk advocates touting purported nutritional and immunity benefits, global health authorities and food safety experts warn that these claims are not only unproven but mask very real dangers—pathogenic infections, foodborne illness outbreaks, and even life-threatening complications, especially for children and the elderly (BuzzFeed; Wikipedia - Raw milk).

A unique and controversial exercise known as the “hanging neck” workout is making headlines in China, capturing the attention of health professionals and the general public across Asia. The trend, in which elderly participants suspend themselves by their necks from tree branches or fitness bars, was spotlighted after multiple accounts surfaced online touting its supposed benefits for neck and back pain—but also, alarmingly, after news broke of a tragic death resulting from the practice (Times of India).

A controversial trend known as the “hanging neck” workout has drawn global concern after emerging in China. Elderly participants reportedly suspend themselves by their necks from branches or bars, with some testimonials claiming relief from neck and back pain. Public warnings followed a fatal incident in Chongqing, highlighting severe risks from this practice.

The movement began in Shenyang, where a 57-year-old man created a homemade device to self-treat chronic neck discomfort. Videos showed seniors swinging gently from trees, which quickly went viral on social media. Supporters claim the technique reduces nerve pressure and improves sleep, prompting more elderly people to try it. However, medical professionals caution that the neck is not built to support body weight in dynamic motions, and improper use can cause nerve damage, disc injuries, or cervical fractures. Recent reporting notes a tragic death linked to misused equipment, underscoring the danger of unsupervised practice.

Thai readers may remember the spectacular social media phenomenon a decade ago, when people across the world — from celebrities to schoolchildren — doused themselves in ice water for the original Ice Bucket Challenge. Launched in 2014, the trend raised over US$220 million globally for ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), known in Thai as โรคกล้ามเนื้ออ่อนแรง (Lou Gehrig’s disease) and brought international attention to a previously little-known disease. Now, in 2025, the challenge is back — but with an urgent new purpose: breaking the silence around mental health, especially among young people (NBC News, New York Times).

The Ice Bucket Challenge, which captivated the world in 2014 and raised more than US$220 million for ALS research, is back in 2025 with a new mission. This time, university students in the United States are steering a movement to break the silence around mental health among young people. The campaign uses the familiar ritual of pouring ice-cold water over the head, sharing the moment online, and tagging friends, but funds now support Active Minds, a nonprofit focused on youth mental health and suicide prevention.