Viral olive oil shots could lead to weight gain, health expert warns

What happened: A health expert warned that taking daily shots of olive oil, a trend promoted on social media by celebrities, can add calories and lead to weight gain. Key numbers: A 2022 JACC observational study found adults who consumed more than half a tablespoon of olive oil per day had a 19% lower risk of death from heart disease. Why it matters: Megan Meyer, Ph.D., said a shot or two daily can add several hundred calories and may cause stomach upset, acid reflux, bloating or loose stools, and she recommends using olive oil in meals instead.

A health expert warned that taking daily shots of olive oil, a trend promoted on social media by celebrities, can add calories and lead to weight gain.

Megan Meyer, Ph.D., said a shot or two daily can add several hundred calories and may cause stomach upset, acid reflux, bloating or loose stools, and she recommends using olive oil in meals instead.