When was the last time you said, “I saw that on TikTok”?
Five seconds ago? That sounds good.
Many people turn to TikTok for information these days. More than 1.8 billion people (there are billions with a “b”) use TikTok around the world. And more than half of the users are women.
The social video platform has content related to virtually anything you can think of, including health trends. But that doesn’t mean every post has your best interests in mind. Misinformation is liked and shared on social media all the time. And it can be difficult to know what’s legit based on a short video.
We researched current health trends on TikTok and asked professionals to help us separate the health from the hype.
1. Somatic exercises to relieve stress and stored trauma
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What are somatic exercises?: A combination of movements and mind-body techniques that help you get more in touch with your body (think tai chi, yoga, and meditation).
Our expert says: “I think if it works for you, then it’s true,” said Mindy Caplan, an exercise physiologist certified by the American College of Sports Medicine. “There are many ways to relieve stress and stored trauma. Some techniques work for some people while Other techniques work for others.”
Read: What is EMDR and how can it help trauma survivors? >>
One study He found that body-focused integrative therapy using somatic exercises showed positive effects on people with PTSD. Caplan noted that somatic exercises can be especially helpful for women because they tend to take care of others before taking care of themselves. “By taking time each day to connect, stay present, re-energize, and calm down, we help release emotional weight we don’t need.”
Heart or hype?♡ “I don’t know any [health] risks, only benefits,” Caplan said.
2. Snail mucin for your face
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What is snail mucin?: I’m so glad you asked! Snail mucin is the mucus left behind by a snail (a snail trail, if you will). The viscous serum contains natural ingredients. Glycolic acid, collagen and hyaluronic acid. among other things that can benefit your skin.
Our expert says: “Snail mucin is commonly found in skin care products because it has been shown to have numerous benefits for the skin. However, there is surprisingly little research on this topic,” said Lauren Fine, MD, board-certified dermatologist.
Fine said mucin contains proteins that help with lubrication, and some small studies have shown that mucin has Anti-inflammatory properties that can slow the signs of aging. One study of 2020 found that snail mucin improved the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles in women ages 45 to 65.
Heart or hype? It’s complicated. Fine said that despite the popularity, more research is needed. “I would be somewhat cautious about incorporating this ingredient into your skin routine due to the limited clinical data demonstrating clear, measurable effects on the skin.”
3. Olive oil for the skin
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The one in your closet?: That is. Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is apparently the secret ingredient for soft and luminous skin according to Celebrities Julia Roberts and Jennifer Lopez. Apparently, Cleopatera was a fan (although she didn’t post it on TikTok, so we can’t be sure). Olive oil has natural properties. anti-inflammatory and repairing properties and contains high levels of squalene, a compound that helps the skin retain moisture. In theory, it is generally considered safe to use on the body and face.
Read: 10 foods for beautiful and healthy skin >>
Our expert says: “Olive oil is rich in vitamins, including A, D and K, as well as vitamin E, and is also a powerful antioxidant, meaning it can help prevent or reverse damage caused by cancer-causing ultraviolet light. “Fine said.
Another possible bonus: one study found that olive oil reduced signs of stress-induced skin aging in just 13 days. However, Fine said putting olive oil on your skin isn’t for everyone. “Any type of oil can clog pores and can cause or [worsen] acne,” he said. People with sensitive skin, eczema, and atopic dermatitis may also want to avoid EVOO because it can irritate the skin.
Read: Clinically Speaking: Questions to Ask Your Healthcare Provider About Atopic Dermatitis >>
Heart of hype? He is healthy heart… but Fine said to keep it in the pantry. “In my professional opinion, I think there are much better options for moisturizing and hydrating, so I would leave olive oil for cooking.”
4. Laxatives to lose weight
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What it is: Dangerous and life-threatening
The research says: A worrying trend promoting laxatives as cheap anti-obesity medications is false and can lead to serious health problems. Aside from constipation, taking laxatives regularly is taxing on your organs and can lead to death. Abuse can also cause dehydration and low potassium levels, which can increase the risk of heart attack, among other problems.
Experts point out that “weight loss” through laxatives is a myth. Any temporary changes caused by laxative abuse are primarily due to the loss of water, minerals and electrolytes that will return when you drink water again.
Not interested. Dislike. She played “report.” This is harmful, not just an exaggeration.
5. The Sleepy Girl’s Mocktail to Sleep.
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What is the “sleepy girl” mocktail?: Drink made with sour cherry juice and magnesium powder.
Our expert says: The combination sounds like the lullaby of libations. “Tarit cherries contain tryptophan and increase melatonin, so taking them before bed, in addition to the magnesium, is great,” Melanie Fiorella, MD, said in a previous interview with HealthyWomen about the benefits of magnesium.
Read: Much ado about magnesium >>
Some studies found better sleep quality in people taking magnesium supplements. Fiorella said the natural mineral helps relax muscles and reduce anxiety, making it a good choice for a nightcap.
Heart or hype? ♡ Magnesium is a generally safe supplement and the “sleepy girl” mocktail can help you catch up on sleep. Of course, talk to your healthcare provider before taking any supplements, including magnesium.
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