Is eating cotton balls dipped in juice going to help me lose weight?

Is eating cotton balls dipped in juice going to help me lose weight?

The Cotton Ball Diet is an extremely dangerous diet trend that involves dipping cotton balls in juice and swallowing them. This may make you feel temporarily full but it is totally UNSAFE. Why? Even though the name makes it sound harmless, store-bought “cotton” balls can be made from rayon or other synthetic fibers that are bleached and processed for cosmetic use,  not for eating. Eating regular or synthetic cotton balls, or any indigestible materials or nonfood items can lead to malnutrition and a bezoar. A bezoar is a trapped mass that can cause an obstruction of the intestinal tract which is very serious and most often requires surgery to unblock the intestines. Cotton balls or any other nonfood item is NOT a substitute for food. Your body needs real nutrients that you can only get from real food. The best way to lose or manage your weight is to follow a healthy diet plan. We suggest the MyPlate method.

Last reviewed and updated November 17, 2025

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