Rawdogging is a trend that has been going viral on various social media platforms. It includes the persistent dedication to not eat or drink anything while travelling throughout the flight. Photos Courtesy: Istock
Effects of not eating any food on flights
Dr Girish Date, psychiatrist, Zynova Shalby Hospital in Mumbai, says staying hungry without drinking or eating anything for a longer duration can hamper your digestive health. This can lead to experiencing symptoms like gas, constipation, bloating, vomiting, fatigue, heartburn, diarrhea, and stomach pain. Due to this unwanted pain, you may not be able to enjoy the unique experience of traveling by flight. Packing nutrient-rich snacks or electrolyte-infused water is essential to avoid completely fasting during the flight. Read more
Challenges
Date says the challenge itself is a distraction as it can keep your mind engaged about persistently avoiding food and drinks even if you want to. This becomes nearly impossible if you are traveling on public transportation where others seem to devour their tasty food. This can lead to sudden cravings resulting in feelings of agitation, frustration, and irritation. Being dehydrated can take a heavy toll on your overall well-being. Following this trend for a short-distance flight of 3-4 hours is okay. However, certainly not for a long-duration flight of say 12-16 hours.
Narendra Linger, clinical psychologist and psychotherapist at Holy Family Hospital, says Rawdogging is generally manageable on short flights. Prolonged periods without distraction can lead to repetitive thinking or anxiety, especially for those prone to such issues. It is best limited to short flights of up to two hours to minimise potential risks and discomfort.
Effects on mental health
Date says sitting alone and enjoying one’s own company is often overlooked and considered boring. However, it can be made fun and interesting depending on the type of activities you choose to do while traveling. This includes activities like solving puzzles, playing games, watching series, reading a book or magazine, doodling, crocheting, listening to music, journaling your thoughts, learning new things about the place you are visiting, or even just chilling and sleeping.
Linger adds that the state or process of being alone with one's thoughts can be very useful for a person to develop greater self-awareness, introspection, and mindfulness, which is related to personal growth and mental well-being improvement.
Who should stay away from the trend
Date says pregnant women, senior citizens, those having acidity problems, kidney problems, obese people, and ones with cardiovascular problems should not take up this challenge. Those who experience anxiety or have a history of mental health challenges may find that the added pressure to perform intensifies their stress rather than enhancing their well-being.
Linger adds completely abstaining from food during the entire flight may not be beneficial for all, especially to those who have a medical condition or whose diet is restricted with special needs. People suffering from diabetes, low blood pressure, or other health concerns should get advice from their doctors before giving it a try.
Why to avoid the trend
Date says travelling on an empty stomach has its own set of challenges for your overall health. It causes no harm if your flight is of short duration but if it’s of longer duration like 8 to 9 hours then staying hungry can cause distress. One should avoid this trend, drink adequate water to stay hydrated, and eat food to dodge fatigue and motion sickness during the flight. It is essential to eat light meals on the flight instead of completely avoiding eating.
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