The Mukbang Phenomenon: From Entertainment Trend to a Risk for Your Body and Mind

Mukbang,  watching someone eat large amounts of food on camera, has become a viral trend on social media. It looks entertaining and fun, often triggering FOMO (fear of missing out) among viewers who feel tempted to try the same challenges. Yet behind the popularity, mukbang carries hidden risks that affect both psychology and physical health.

Mukbang: Viral Trend with Hidden Sacrifices

Mukbang videos often show creators devouring huge or extreme meals, like 10 packs of spicy noodles or oversized portions of fried food. What the audience rarely sees is the preparation behind the camera:

• Many creators fast for hours or even a whole day so they can eat more during recording.
• The more extreme the content (huge portions, crazy spice levels, weird combos), the higher the chance it goes viral.

Psychological Impact on Viewers

Mukbang is not just harmless entertainment. Repeated exposure can distort how viewers perceive food:

• Viewers feel FOMO and start attempting similar challenges just for social validation.
• Binge eating in front of a camera becomes normalized, creating unhealthy eating habits.

Physical Risks of Mukbang

Beyond psychology, mukbang can cause serious health risks for both creators and viewers who follow the trend:

• Acid reflux & gastritis caused by long fasting before mukbang.
• Obesity & diabetes triggered by repeated overeating.
• Chronic digestive problems due to extreme eating patterns.
• Lowered immunity from constant metabolic stress.

Conclusion: Choose Mindful Eating

Mukbang may look fun and entertaining, but its risks should not be ignored. For viewers, FOMO only worsens eating habits. For creators, extreme content can bring long-term health damage. Viral content should not come at the cost of your well-being.

The healthier option is mindful eating: eat in moderation, savor each bite, and listen to your body. Entertainment is important, but your health should never be the price you pay.