Have you heard of the travel trend 'Rawdogging'? Health experts highlight why it is dangerous

Mumbai-based travel influencer Thomson Sequiera frequently travels to different parts of the country and the world. At such times, he likes always to keep himself busy while flying. The thought of not doing anything while travelling in an airplane makes him shudder. Especially when it is in India, as the journey is very chaotic, and he is automatically forced to use his noise-cancellation headphones. So imagine his surprise when he came across people attempting 'rawdogging' while flying. Firstly, what is this new travel trend?

Dr Girish Date, psychiatrist, Zynova Shalby Hospital in Mumbai, explains, "Rawdogging is a trend that has been going viral on various social media platforms. This includes the persistent dedication to not eating or drinking anything while traveling throughout the flight."

Spending a lot more time amid travellers, Sequiera shares, "This trend works for the people who love their own space and love to interact with themselves and be productive with their thoughts and love their own company. Solo travelers would love such trends. I love watching documentaries and editing my videos and photos on flights. Even sleep is much needed when you know as soon as you land, you have to shoot your content, and look presentable and be energetic the entire day."

If you love food and travel, the algorithm of social networking applications like Instagram in India and TikTok around the world must have already thrown 'Rawdogging' your way as it has to Sequiera, who is also a fashion influencer. Following trends on the Internet has become a hobby for most people. While it looks fine till it is limited to music and dance, the same cannot be said about food and travel, as they can have adverse effects on the body, the most recent one being the 'water diet', which took a turn for the worse when an influencer succumbed to it. Rawdogging is no different, say experts.

Also Read: Midday Explains | Weight-loss drugs, diet fads, viral trends: Are they worth it for weight management? Experts answer

Being a frequent flyer, Sequiera usually watches a series or movies or edits his YouTube or Instagram videos till he grabs some food or a drink. He adds, "Sleep is my priority. I am a content creator and I have my day scheduled with shoots and I need to be ready and fresh for my shots." Being someone who loves watching the sky from his window, the Mumbaikar, who has been a content creator for close to eight years now, writes down his agenda in his notes and scripts and concepts for his next shoots and videos too.

While he doesn't like the idea of the trend, Sequiera says he doesn't mind trying it out once but is cautious about the challenges it can pose to physical and mental health. Even as people may want to try it out, he said personally it's not something he would be inclined towards in the future, as his work demands otherwise.

mid-day.com spoke to Date and Narendra Linger, clinical psychologist and psychotherapist at Holy Family Hospital, to help dissect the trend beyond its popularity. They not only highlight the mental implications but also the dietary effects that could worsen health.

Raw dogging is a new travel trend that people, mostly men, are undertaking as a challenge to sit on long flights. What can this trend lead to?
Date: Some might take it as a challenging adventure to show their resilience and willpower. However, 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.

Linger: It can be an act of sensation-seeking that is taking part in an activity that pushes the limits of the individual involved. One of the reasons for this may be to look for an adrenaline rush, rely on one's wit, or pursue an opportunity for glory. It could also be a way to gain self-verification when the individual tries to demonstrate to himself as well as others how he/she can resist discomfort and stress. Nonetheless, there can be some who look at this as a distraction from or avoidance of the uncomfortable situation during the long flight.

What are the possible benefits of following such a trend?
Date: This trend causes more harm than let alone the benefits. 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. This is because most of the time you would be distracted with the thoughts of acing this challenge just for the sake of mere likes and follows. Instead, you can try to live in the moment without any stress or pressure of completing certain challenges and focus more on the scenic beauty outside your window.

Linger: Conclusive advantages that result from theorising this tendency are increased self-awareness, improved mental discipline, and enhanced ability to tolerate discomfort. People who want to search for their inner selves can do so by being silent and quiet. Thereby, they may be able to delve into their minds and emotions, thus comprehending themselves more deeply. This problem might result in an individual's greater resilience and flexibility, which are basic abilities for solving any life problem.

While this is popular on TikTok and abroad, is it possible to follow such a trend in India with so many distractions on flights?
Date: This 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. Individuals are advised to avoid following such trends especially up in the air where the atmospheric pressure changes now and then. Ensure that you drink enough water and food for the betterment of your health.

Linger: Repeating this in India can be a real challenge because in this country receiving a very warm welcome happens to be a cultural factor, with the high probability of being given food or drinks by co-passengers or the cabin crew. Furthermore, Indian flights are usually characterized by a more social vibe with people talking to each other and sharing what they have. Common people would be reaffirmed to politely deny offers and reserve their limits. Through one's mindfulness and autoregulation, it is feasible to customise this trend as per Indian cultural traditions.

With people addicted to screens, how does sitting alone with one's thoughts on a flight help a person?
Date: Some people are introverts or in general refrain from socialising or starting a conversation with others. For them watching their favorite movie or serial throughout the journey can be comforting without causing much problem. 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: 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. This is the first time people may find they are alone, but at the same time, it was a valuable opportunity to spend their time without any distractions. People get to choose the possible rhythm for their deep inward solitude and quiet meditation. One can even use the quietness to listen to their inner voice, a place where they can reflect on their thoughts and emotions, and get a better grasp of their ideas.

Likewise, Rawdogging also talks about not consuming any food. Is it okay to not consume anything for the whole duration of the flight?
Date: It is essential to eat light meals on the flight instead of completely avoiding eating. It is believed that in-flight snacks and drinks can also lead to unexpected discomfort. Without hydration or nourishment over several hours, passengers may encounter fatigue or headaches, nausea, and vomiting. Packing nutrient-rich snacks or electrolyte-infused water is essential to avoid completely fasting during the flight.

Linger: 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. Furthermore, flight crew members can become worried about the passengers' condition and offer food and drinks to them, so it's crucial to tell the attendants what one wants or not wants to do for their flight.

Even if one takes up this challenge, how much is acceptable to try and how much isn't in terms of duration?
Date: Rawdogging strictly means no music, no phone, no screen, no books or magazines, no food, no water, and no sleep and you just get lost in your thoughts. However, not eating or drinking water for a longer duration is not recommended. It can cause burnout, fatigue, and dehydration. Even getting a sound sleep is essential for the body or you can become cranky, and get a headache. 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.

Linger: 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.

Who should not take up this challenge, given their mental or physical condition?
Date: 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. So, be mindful when it comes to taking up this challenge.

Linger: Those prone to motion sickness, and those with mobility issues should also avoid rawdogging travel to ensure their health and safety during flights.

What are the challenges and dangers of following such a trend?
Date: Rawdogging for a longer time can cause anxiety, panic attacks, claustrophobia, and restlessness which can be problematic for the person. Completely avoiding drinking water is not recommended at all and worsens one's condition. Not drinking water for a long time can even cause constipation and hard stools.

Linger: The absence of distractions can heighten anxiety and discomfort for those prone to flight anxiety, making passengers more acutely aware of their surroundings and any discomfort they experience. Extended periods of inactivity can lead to stiffness and discomfort. Regular movement is essential to maintain circulation.

Without mental stimulation, passengers may experience boredom and mental fatigue, making the flight feel tedious and unenjoyable, especially on long-haul flights. Choosing to disconnect completely can lead to a sense of isolation, missing out on social interactions that can enhance the travel experience.

Effects of avoiding food for long periods
As people undertake the practice, Vedika Premani, clinical dietician, Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital in Mumbai, says it can be a good way to avoid any distractions and to be more ‘present'. She explains, "When it comes to entertainment, it can help the mind to relax or people can even meditate."

However, the same cannot be said about avoiding food and drink. He highlights, "Travelling without hydration and food can lead to fatigue and dehydration.
Airplanes are known to create an externally dehydrating environment for the body, and not drinking water can add to it. One needs water to function properly and to perform mindfulness as well."

On the other hand, Premani says, skipping food can contribute to creating physical fatigue which adds up to the tiredness from the long hours of travel. "Although, bloating and flatulence are common for people during travel, not eating anything can make it worse. Foods high in sugar, salt and fats should be avoided, but whole fruits, nuts and seeds can be some snacks that can help keep bloating at bay," she concludes.