Experts have raised serious health concerns over the alarming growth of the "raw-dogging" flight trend, where travelers forgo entertainment and basic needs.
Recently, a growing number of travelers have opted to fly without any form of entertainment or basic comforts, a risky trend that could lead to severe health issues, including life-threatening blood clots, New York Post reported.
The trend, known as "raw-dogging," involves passengers enduring flights without engaging in traditional activities such as listening to music, watching movies, or even sleeping. It derives from a television portrayal in Apple TV+'s "Hijacked," where a character goes through a flight without amenities due to unforeseen events. This portrayal has moved from the screen to real life, gaining traction among travelers seeking to challenge themselves.
Notable personalities including Manchester City's Erling Haaland and musicians Wudini and Torren Foot have publicly participated in and promoted this trend. Their endorsements have brought significant attention to the practice, with individuals boasting their experiences on various social media platforms. For instance, Wudini shared his ordeal of enduring a 7-hour flight without any distractions or necessities, framing it as a form of personal achievement.
Erling Haaland's tweet mirrored this sentiment, highlighting his avoidance of necessities like food or water during his flight, focusing solely on the flight map for distraction. Similarly, Australian musician Torren Foot described his experience as focusing only on the flight map, eschewing all forms of traditional in-flight entertainment.
The trend, while viewed by some as a harmless challenge, has raised alarms among medical and nutritional professionals. Toby King, a noted nutritionist, expressed concern over the trend's seemingly innocent appeal masking dire health implications. The absence of regular movement and hydration during these flights significantly increases the risk of developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and potentially fatal blood clots in the lungs.
Dr. Gill Jenkins, a general practitioner specializing in patient travel health, strongly critiqued the trend. She highlighted the dangers of avoiding basic needs such as hydration, which is crucial given the low humidity and high altitude environment of flights. Ignoring the urge to use the restroom was particularly singled out as harmful, emphasizing the necessity of regular movement and hydration during flights to prevent health complications.
Despite its popularity on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, and its coverage in major media outlets, there is growing concern among professionals urging travelers to adhere to conventional flying practices. A spokesperson from the flight-booking service Netflights advised passengers to enjoy flights safely by staying hydrated and utilizing the entertainment provided for a healthier travel experience. They noted the increased evaporation of moisture from the body during flights which makes drinking fluids more essential.
The discussion about this trend continues across different platforms, stressing the need for awareness about the potential health risks associated with such flying habits.
In conclusion, while the "raw-dogging" flight trend may offer a unique challenge, it poses severe health risks. Endorsements by celebrities have helped popularize this movement, but medical experts strongly advise against it, highlighting risks like dehydration, DVT, and potentially fatal blood clots. Officials encourage travelers to adhere to safer, conventional practices during flights to ensure their well-being.
