Kardashian-approved olive oil trend isnt the health miracle TikTok claims, doctor says

Welcome to Ask Doctor Zac, a weekly column from news.com.au.This week, Dr Zac Turner explores a health trend that’s gone viral on TikTok.QUESTION: Hi Dr Zac, there’s this really annoying girl at my gym who keeps rabbiting on about how she starts every morning by swigging a quarter of a cup of olive oil before she hits the gym.

Gross.She says it improves her gut health and sets her up for a good day.

She’s obsessed with the Kardashians and tells me Kourtney Kardashian swears by it and she’s seen loads of TikToks about it.I hate the Kardashians, and I hate TikTok even more.Is this woman spending too much time on social media and not enough time in the real world? I’m coming to you for advice as a real doctor, because just like Kim Kardashian is not a real lawyer, I think it’s best I get the truth from someone with an actual medical degree.

– Cassie, 29, Surry Hills, NSWANSWER: Hey Cassie, firstly, I love your dedication to fact-checking TikTok trends with an actual doctor – gold star for you.Now, about this olive oil craze.Your gym nemesis isn’t entirely wrong – extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) does have some impressive health benefits.But should you be chugging it straight like it’s a tequila shot? Well, that’s another story.Olive oil, especially the extra virgin kind, is packed with healthy mono-unsaturated fats and polyphenols, which are basically superheroes for your gut.These compounds help reduce inflammation, balance blood sugar and promote good bacteria in your gut.Some studies even suggest it may ease digestion and bloating.Sounds great, right?But here’s the kicker – drinking it straight won’t give you instant abs or transform your digestive system overnight.It’s a long-term health booster, not a magic potion.

Think of it like using a good moisturiser – you won’t wake up wrinkle-free after one use, but over time, it makes a difference.So, should you start downing shots of it?Look, you can drink a bit of olive oi...