A quirky new trend is taking over TikTok, especially among Gen Z users. It’s called the “fridge cigarette,” but it has nothing to do with smoking. Instead, it involves reaching into the fridge, grabbing a cold Diet Coke, and sipping it slowly, usually after a long, stressful day.
Videos with captions like “Time for my afternoon fridge cigarette” or “Just a little something to take the edge off” have gone viral, with thousands of likes and comments. For many young adults, this has become their version of a smoke break, a moment to pause, reset, and feel good.
Why does this trend feel so satisfying?
Experts say the appeal lies in the experience and not just the drink. The crisp pop of the can opening, the cold fizz, and the hit of carbonation all contribute to a mini dopamine rush.
“It’s not about the caffeine or even the flavour, it’s about the routine, the ritual,” explains Dr. Susan Albers, a clinical psychologist at the Cleveland Clinic. “Just like people once used cigarette breaks to decompress, this has become a modern, socially acceptable substitute.”
The routine, she adds, provides a brief feeling of comfort and control, something many people crave in today’s high-stress world.
But is diet coke safe to drink every day?
While it’s far healthier than smoking, health experts say depending on Diet Coke every day for stress relief may not be the best idea.
“Diet sodas like Diet Coke contain artificial sweeteners such as aspartame, which can impact gut bacteria and possibly even brain chemistry,” says Dr. Marion Nestle, professor emerita of nutrition at New York University.
Although diet sodas have zero calories, some studies suggest they might:
- Increase sugar cravings
- Contribute to weight gain
- Disrupt gut health
- Affect mood and mental clarity
“These drinks can confuse the body’s appetite signals and may create a cycle of craving more sweets,” adds Dr. Uma Naidoo, Harvard-trained psychiatrist.
Experts also warn that leaning on soda to unwind could be a red flag.
“When we reach for a fizzy drink to feel better every day, we should ask ourselves, what’s the real need here?” says Dr. Albers. “It might be a sign of emotional stress, anxiety, or even burnout.”
Healthier alternatives to try
You don’t have to give up the relaxing ritual, just tweak it a little. Here are some expert-approved swaps for your “fridge cigarette” moment:
- Sparkling water with lemon, mint, or cucumber
- Herbal iced teas like chamomile or peppermint
- Kombucha, for a fizzy and gut-friendly fix
- Coconut water, naturally sweet and hydrating
- Infused water with berries, basil, or citrus
And don’t forget to combine your break with things that boost dopamine naturally, like a short walk, a few deep breaths, listening to music, or even stretching.
The “fridge cigarette” is less about the diet coke and more about taking a pause. And that’s okay, as everyone needs a break. But relying on soda daily to de-stress may not be ideal for your long-term health.
