A growing trend on social media, where individuals and celebrities like Kourtney Kardashian and Hailey Bieber are consuming shots of olive oil, is drawing scrutiny from health professionals. While proponents claim benefits such as reduced inflammation and improved skin, experts advise caution regarding the practice's effectiveness and potential drawbacks.
Megan Meyer, Ph.D., a science communication consultant, noted that such trends often gain traction due to their novelty and viral nature, appealing to those seeking quick health fixes. "I also think people are interested in quick, convenient health fixes," Meyer told Fox News Digital. "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 have reported positive experiences, including reduced puffiness and more even skin, with one user describing it as a way to "lower inflammation." These perceived benefits are often attributed to polyphenols, plant compounds known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
However, Meyer pointed out that polyphenol content can vary significantly, with extra virgin olive oil generally containing more than refined varieties. While olive oil itself, when incorporated into a balanced diet, is linked to heart health benefits—including a lower risk of death from heart disease as suggested by a 2022 study in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology—consuming it in concentrated shot form may not offer additional advantages and could introduce risks.
According to Meyer, while generally safe for most healthy individuals, olive oil shots may not be suitable for those with gallbladder issues, chronic reflux, or sensitive stomachs. A significant concern is the potential for weight gain, as daily shots can add hundreds of calories to one's intake, potentially leading to weight gain if not balanced with energy expenditure. "Consuming more calories than your body burns each day leads to weight gain, so taking an olive oil shot or two daily will most likely lead to weight gain over time," Meyer stated.
Furthermore, ingesting a large amount of fat on an empty stomach could lead to digestive discomfort, including upset stomach, acid reflux, bloating, or loose stools. Meyer does not recommend the practice of taking olive oil shots. Instead, she suggests incorporating olive oil into meals as a cooking oil, a base for dressings, or a finishing drizzle for dishes.