The classic mid-day cigarette break is getting a bubbly makeover, courtesy of Gen Z. This summer, TikTok has been buzzing with videos featuring what users are calling their “fridge cigarettes,” showcasing this sweet and fizzy ritual.
So, what exactly is the fridge cigarette? It’s simply popping open a cold can of Diet Coke. Many young adults have taken to social media to express their love for this quick pick-me-up moment.
One TikTok user described it perfectly: “Just a little something to take the edge off.” Another chimed in with, “Time for my afternoon fridge cigarette!” Videos about this trend have gone viral, gathering tons of likes and commenting largely on the refreshing relief Diet Coke provides after a long day.
So why are people hooked on this? New York City psychotherapist Jonathan Alpert explains that Diet Coke serves as an “emotional stand-in” for those looking to take a break.
He elaborated that these moments become a small ritual that allows individuals to pause and reward themselves amidst their busy lives. It gives people a structure or a moment of calm in an otherwise chaotic day.
Interestingly, Alpert pointed out that the experience of opening a can of Diet Coke offers sensory stimulation, much like smoking. The sound, fizz, and chill sensation give off a quick and satisfying burst of relief, especially when times get tense and stressful.
While it’s cooler than lighting up a cigarette, Alpert cautions that leaning on Diet Coke repeatedly as a method to cope can create dependency issues, mainly if used to alleviate anxiety or suppress appetites.
Fox News Digital made an attempt to contact Coca-Cola for input but was unable to reach them.
Doctor Debra Muth, a naturopath from Wisconsin, resonates with Alpert’s concerns, stating that switching from cigarettes to Diet Coke is merely trading one bad habit for another. She highlighted that while the ritual itself is helpful for releasing stress, the underlying cravings are troubling.
Muth clarified that people might think they crave aspartame or the act of drinking a fizzy soda, but ultimately, it’s the brain seeking dopamine. Consuming these artificial sweeteners could hinder natural neurotransmitter levels. Muth believes that getting relief shouldn’t involve leaning on trickery when achieving your actual needs.
Instead, Muth advocates for supplying the brain with essential nutrients like amino acids for natural dopamine creation, correcting blood sugar levels, and adopting legitimate stress management techniques that adequately restore the natural reward circuit of the brain.
Source article:‘Fridge cigarette’ is Gen Z’s new Diet Coke obsession that concerns health experts
