Health trends are ever changing, but the ones that always gain the most attention are those promoted by famous celebrities. Not only are they strange, but most are outside of traditional medical science, which begs the question: Are they even safe and effective? According to the NCCIH (National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health), there’s not enough evidence to prove whether they are or not.
So while there is not conclusive research supporting the benefits of the top 6 trending health practices, a few holistic health specialists offered their expert opinion.
1. Jade Eggs
One of the latest health experiments, praised by Gwyneth Paltrow, involves jade eggs. This practice is essentially vaginal weight lifting.
The oval stones made of jade are inserted vaginally. Supposedly, doing this increases vaginal tone and strength, as well as improves hormonal balance and increases libido. However, this technique does have its downside according to Dr. Svetlana Kogan, a holistic health practitioner and author of “Diet Slave No More.”
Inserting jade eggs can potentially lead to infection and may also interfere with contraceptives like IUDs. Kogan, instead, recommends doing Kegel exercises, which are a safe way to exercise vaginal muscles.
2. Vitamin Drips
The idea behind this practice is to obtain higher levels of certain vitamin concentrations in the body. According to Robin Foroutan, spokeswoman for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, and an integrative dietitian, nutritionist, and health coach, vitamin drips can be more effective than oral supplements alone.
However, vitamin drips are only beneficial when used and administered appropriately. Some risks include nausea, dizziness, or infection at the puncture site, Foroutan said. Also, the old wise saying – “Too much of a good thing is bad” – applies to vitamin drips. For instance, too much magnesium can lower blood pressure. Therefore, Foroutan stresses the importance of having these procedures at a reputable location.
3. Oil Pulling
Kogan calls this a “time-proven, alternative healing technique,” which has an Asian-Ayurvedic history. Oil pulling simply involves swishing oil, such as sesame oil or coconut oil, around the mouth for a few minutes. Doing this whitens teeth, improves oral health, and soothes mouth dryness, Foroutan said. Shailene Woodley is among the celebrities trying this interesting technique.
4. Cupping
When heated and applied to a patient’s back, the cups suck the flesh upwards. This treatment is supposed to help alleviate respiratory ailments and improve lymphatic drainage. It’s most effective when performed during the early stages of viral respiratory illnesses. Kogan does warn that this procedure can cause bruising. Moreover, it’s a fire hazard when not used properly.
Those on the cupping bandwagon include Lady Gaga, Lena Dunham, and Michael Phelps.
5. Toothpaste for Acne
Some celebrities — such as Kendall Jenner and Jennifer Love Hewitt — recommend an old acne treatment trick. Instead of investing in other, expensive products, use toothpaste for a last minute pimple spot treatment.
However, Kogan points out that toothpaste only dries up the skin rather than treat the underlying problems causing the acne. She suggests people pass on this trend.
6. Eating Placenta
Weirdly enough, some moms after giving birth consume the placenta, or what Kogan described as the “organ that’s formed as an interface between the mother and child.” Supposedly, the placenta provides several health benefits.
However, because the placenta is a blood product, Kogan does not recommend eating it. It’s too difficult to verify the sterility and safety of the placenta. Therefore, it’s best not to eat it.
Reminders
Though these health trends may offer some health benefits, they also pose significant risks as Kogan and Foroutan pointed out. Moreover, these trends are not backed up with scientific research. So before jumping on the bandwagon, check with your doctor first. Also, don’t forget to review your health coverage. Make sure you have the right health plan for you by contacting a licensed agent today!
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