THE rise of the “body tea” trend highlights how social media pressure and influencer culture are pushing Malaysian women to chase unrealistic beauty ideals, often at the expense of real health.
The term body tea began as internet slang for an attractive or curvy body, a compliment meant to celebrate someone who is both “thick and pretty.”
It originated from a viral TikTok video using the phrase “her body tea” to describe a woman’s figure.
Over time, the word tea, once used to mean gossip or “hot news”, evolved into shorthand for “hot,” symbolising physical appeal.
Today, phrases like “her body tea” or “you got body tea” flood TikTok, Instagram and X, often used to praise someone’s curves, fitness or silhouette.
Some even liken the “ideal” figure to a teapot - slim waist, fuller hips - supposedly representing the perfect shape.
But beneath the playful slang lies a deeper problem: the growing pressure to conform to unrealistic body standards.
Influencers, Ideals and Insecurity
Avisena Specialist Hospital clinical dietitian Suraya Arshad said the body tea trend is another reminder of how social media continues to distort perceptions of beauty and health.
“The constant exposure to influencers promoting a specific ‘ideal’ body can affect young people’s self-worth,” she said.
Suraya warned that such trends could trigger negative body image and unhealthy behaviours, from extreme dieting to relying on unverified slimming teas or supplements.
“A healthy and confident body doesn’t come from trends or shortcuts.
“It comes from small, consistent habits, balanced meals with enough protein, fibre, hydration, regular exercise, rest and mindful eating.”
The Real Tea on Health and Confidence
Suraya said the popularity of the body tea trend reflects a gap in public understanding of body diversity and health literacy.
“Health isn’t defined by a single size or shape. We need more awareness that strength, energy, and mental well-being are just as important as appearance,” she said.
She also encouraged social media users to curate their feeds carefully.
“Follow accounts that promote positive health messages. Unfollow those that make you feel pressured or insecure. Focus on your strengths instead of comparisons,” she advised.
Body Positivity, Not Perfection
Suraya noted it’s encouraging to see people of all sizes embracing confidence, but warned against romanticising unhealthy habits or neglecting overall wellness.
“It’s great that people of all sizes feel confident, that shows beauty isn’t limited to one body type but it becomes worrying when confidence turns into an excuse for unhealthy practices,” she said.
For her, true body positivity stems not from chasing a viral trend, but from self-love, balance and genuine care for one’s health.
“Confidence is beautiful but it should always come with kindness, especially toward yourself.”