Viral olive oil shots could lead to weight gain, health expert warns

Taking shots of olive oil has become a popular trend on social media, with celebrities like Kourtney Kardashian and Hailey Bieber touting the practice for its supposed health benefits.However, some health professionals disagree with the claim that shooting olive oil is a viable wellness ritual."I think health trends like these become popular because they're novel and go viral," Megan Meyer, Ph.D., a science communication consultant based in Durham, North Carolina, told Fox News Digital.BLOOD SUGAR SPIKES COULD HINGE ON THE ORDER YOU EAT YOUR FOOD, STUDY SUGGESTS"I also think people are interested in quick, convenient health fixes.Improving your diet can often be challenging and take a good bit of time and the effects of an improved diet usually take even longer."Some social media users and celebrities claim a daily shot of olive oil helps them feel healthier and less inflamed.

(iStock)Reality television personality Harry Jowsey took to social media to share his experience taking olive oil and lemon juice shots every morning for a week straight, saying the main difference appeared in his face, with "less puffiness" and "more even skin."Another social media user posted about a similar experience, calling the practice "a great way to lower inflammation."CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTERPolyphenols are consistently mentioned by those praising olive oil for its nutritional qualities.Produced by plants, polyphenols can help combat oxidative stress and reduce inflammation, which can lead to a variety of health benefits, according to the National Institutes of Health.The polyphenol content in olive oil varies, with extra virgin olive oil generally containing more than refined varieties.(iStock)"One important caveat: polyphenol content in olive oil can vary quite a bit," Meyer said.

"Extra virgin olive oil tends to have more polyphenol content than a light-tasting olive oil that has been refined."When included in a healthy diet, olive oil can support heart...