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The surge of unconventional health tips circulating on TikTok marks the onset of a new year, prompting a closer examination of some of these curious practices and the evidence—or lack thereof—supporting them.
Putting rubber bands around your ears to reduce facial puffiness
A trend originating in South Korea, wrapping rubber bands around the ears for a duration of 10 minutes has caught the attention of TikTok users worldwide. Proponents suggest that these bands can facilitate fluid movement in the lymphatic system to combat facial puffiness. However, scientific backing for these claims is absent. While lymphatic massage techniques have been shown to temporarily reduce swelling through gentle outward strokes, there is no evidence that rubber bands serve a similar purpose.
Professor Hywel Williams, an expert in evidence-based dermatology at the University of Nottingham, observes that many videos feature young individuals who likely do not experience significant facial puffiness to begin with. He points out that the trend may be fostering unnecessary anxiety among viewers. “There needs to be a proper scientific evaluation comparing rubber bands to other methods with objective puffiness assessments conducted by trained professionals,” he suggests. “The medical community can occasionally be mistaken, and I remain open to exploring these claims further.”
Sticking garlic up the nose to cleanse the sinuses
TikTok has also become a platform for individuals to demonstrate the dramatic effects of inserting garlic into the nose, showcasing significant mucus discharge as perceived evidence of its congestion-relieving properties. However, medical professionals debunk these claims, noting that the mucus release is a natural reaction to garlic’s strong odor rather than a cleansing effect. Simon Gane, a consultant ENT surgeon at University College London Hospitals, clarifies, “This method does not clear anything; it provokes the nasal lining to produce mucus due to irritation.”
Putting castor oil in the belly button to reduce bloating
The practice of applying castor oil to the belly button, also known as navel oiling or navel pulling, has gained traction online with claims that it aids digestion, alleviates bloating, and mitigates menstrual discomfort. While this practice is rooted in Ayurveda, there is no scientific foundation to support such assertions. More notably, investigations have not established the existence of a “pechoti gland” through which essential oils purportedly penetrate the body. Dr. Gemma Sharp, an epidemiologist at the University of Exeter, emphasizes the importance of recognizing the lack of peer-reviewed studies surrounding this trend, advising caution due to potential allergic reactions to castor oil.
Oatzempic helps with weight loss
The diabetes medication Ozempic, renowned for its weight loss effects due to its active ingredient semaglutide, has inspired TikTok users to concoct “oatzempic,” a blend of oats, water, and lime juice, claiming it mirrors the medication’s effects. While there is no empirical research validating this assertion, it is essential to acknowledge that weight loss fundamentally occurs when individuals burn more calories than consumed. Nonetheless, oats, particularly due to their beta-glucan fiber content, have been associated with a decrease in body weight and body mass index.
Mouth taping
Many individuals find themselves breathing through their mouths while sleeping, leading to dryness, discomfort, and snoring. Some have begun using porous tape to close their mouths during the night, promoting nasal breathing instead. Though limited studies exist, one pilot study involving 30 participants suggested that mouth taping might reduce snoring for individuals with mild obstructive sleep apnea.
However, mouth taping might not be safe for everyone. Research indicates that while it generally improves airflow, a significant portion of participants experienced decreased airflow. Dr. Andrew Huang, an otolaryngologist at Baylor College of Medicine, advises caution. “Those without nasal obstructions who are of normal weight might try it, but individuals with breathing difficulties, excess weight, or diagnosed sleep apnea should consult a specialist before proceeding.”
Source
www.theguardian.com