The shot of everyday item that viral videos claim boosts metabolism and skin glow – but what do the experts say?

SOCIAL media users claim that taking a shot of an everyday item in the morning could kickstart your metabolism, clear your acne and make your skin glow – but it’s not coffee.

In fact, this kitchen cupboard staple could hardly be called a drink, but it hasn’t stopped creators on TikTok tipping backs shots of it when they climb out of bed.

But doctors warn health fad may leave your stomach in knots and could even lead to weight gain.

Extra virgin olive oil is touted for its health benefits but it’s usually reserved for drizzling over salads.

Now, a spate of viral videos claim guzzling it down on an empty stomach can benefit your gut and metabolism.

One creator said morning olive oil shots – mixed with a squeeze of lemon – had been “a staple” in her routine since moving to Italy, two years prior, describing them as “gut healing” and a “gamechanger”.

Another said it gave her body “a kickstart”, got her digestive system going and boosted her immune system.

A third claimed it had helped her “lose weight” and made her “skin glow”, while a fourth said a daily spoonful of olive oil and lime would clear her acne.

But what do experts make of these claims?

Dr Masarat Jilani GP at supplement brand Jude wasn’t impressed with the supposed health hack, warning it could lead to upset stomachs, acid reflux and weight gain.

Here’s how taking olive oil shots in the morning could affect your health.

1. It could cause diarrhoea

Dr Jilani said: “While for most people a small amount of olive oil is unlikely to cause any real harm, it is a natural laxative and may lead to diarrhoea, particularly in those with a sensitive digestive system.”

That’s because olive oil has “a mild lubricating effect on the intestine”, so this trend isn’t one to try if you have a sensitive stomach or suffer from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

2. It could lead to stomach discomfort

Consuming pure oil first thing in the morning on an empty stomach without any food may could also leave you feeling nauseous or cause “a general feeling of unease in your stomach”, Dr Jilani went on.

3. It could cause weight gain

Dr Jilani said: “Olive oil is also calorie-dense, so if you’re on a calorie-controlled diet, adding an additional tablespoon of olive oil daily could  lead to weight gain.”

Although olive oil is a healthy fat, it’s still calorie-dense, containing around 120 kcal per tablespoon.

This means a shot glass could be around 360 calories – you could enjoy an entire healthy breakfast instead.

“If weight is a concern, a better way to include olive oil is by putting it in a spray bottle and using one or two squirts to cook fresh vegetables,” the doctor said.

4. It could cause acid reflux

Some people may find that they experience acid reflux from consuming straight olive oil, especially if they are already prone to gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD).

5. It could trigger gallbladder issues

Olive oil triggers the gallbladder to release bile, which aids in fat digestion.

While this is generally beneficial, for those with gallstones or gallbladder disease, it may cause pain and cramping, Dr Jilani warned.

How to consume olive oil instead

There’s no doubt that adding olive oil to your diet can be beneficial to your health.

A recent study found that swapping out butter for the oil could help you live longer.

Meanwhile, eating more than half a tablespoon of olive oil a day could cut Alzheimer’s risk by 28 per cent, another study suggests.

But there’s better ways to consume the stuff rather than shotting it in the morning.

Dr Jilani suggests drizzling it over veggies or salads – that way you won’t tear through a £7 litre of olive oil too quick.