The Ridiculousness of the Feeding Tube Diet

When slimming down for the big day, avoid crash diets. Especially the feeding tube diet. Credit: Dianna Williams

Just when we thought we’d heard it all when it comes to extreme dieting, a new trend emerges that has us shaking our heads. I recently came across an article that discussed the latest trend among brides-to-be: the feeding tube diet.

This diet is employed both by those who have lots to lose or just a few pounds—like brides slimming down before a big event. The fun on this diet begins when you have a feeding tube inserted in your nose. The fun continues when you get only 800 calories a day—no carbs, of course.

Unlike, say, the cabbage soup diet, the feeding tube diet actually carries with it real medical risks when implemented, such as aspiration, lung infection, kidney failure and tissue erosion of the nose and throat. Not to mention the side effect of LOOKING CRAZY for having a medically unnecessary feeding tube down your nose.

It makes me sad that the need to drop any amount of weight would lead to a trend like this. It makes me sad that doctors are willing to do this for patients when they could instead be taking the time to explain what a healthy diet and exercise plan look like.

So whether you’ve got a lot to lose or just a few before the big day, we’ll always maintain that a sensible diet and exercise plan will be your ticket to success—not the latest craze, especially when the latest craze is crazy. Besides, what bride wants to starve to lose a few pounds just to pack it right back on during the honeymoon?

Have you heard of the feeding tube diet? Think it’s insane-o in the brain-o too? —Erin