In the era of TikTok hacks, dermatologists, doctors, and wellness experts in general find themselves debunking or confirming the benefits of viral beauty and wellness tricks every other day. Hailey Bieber, who might be one of the most influential celebrities of recent years, has once again sparked a viral wellness conversation after revealing that she begins her mornings with a shot of olive oil mixed with lemon juice before having breakfast or coffee.
The model and founder of Rhode shared that the simple ritual is part of her daily routine, claiming it helps support gut health, promotes glowing skin, and may aid in weight management. Unsurprisingly, the practice quickly gained traction on TikTok, where thousands of users have begun testing the celebrity-approved habit for themselves.
© Getty ImagesBut while social media has embraced the trend, health experts say the reality is more nuanced.
According to Dr. Frank Lipman, a longevity expert, New York Times bestselling author, pioneer of integrative medicine, and longtime health advisor to actress Maggie Q, the benefits may stem largely from one key component, which is high-quality extra virgin olive oil.
“Any habit that gets polyphenols into your body is a step in the right direction,” Dr. Lipman told HOLA! magazine. “If you're doing the olive oil shot, quality matters. Make it high-quality extra virgin. But if you want the benefits without holding your nose, ActivatedYou's Morning Complete delivers polyphenols in a way you'll actually look forward to.”
© Getty ImagesAccording to the National Institute of Health, polyphenols are naturally occurring plant compounds known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Research has linked them to improved heart health, better digestion, and protection against cellular damage caused by oxidative stress.
Extra virgin olive oil, a cornerstone of the Mediterranean diet, is particularly rich in these beneficial compounds. Studies have shown that regular consumption may support cardiovascular health, reduce inflammation, and contribute to overall wellness.
Why People Are Adding Olive Oil to Their Morning Routine
Supporters of the trend believe consuming olive oil on an empty stomach helps stimulate digestion and provides a healthy source of fats early in the day. The addition of lemon juice is often credited with adding vitamin C and a refreshing flavor, although scientific evidence supporting specific detoxifying effects remains limited.
© victoriabeeNutrition experts generally agree that olive oil can be a healthy addition to a balanced diet. However, there is little research showing that taking it as a concentrated morning shot offers unique benefits compared to incorporating it into meals throughout the day.
The skin-related claims are also more complex than social media posts often suggest. Healthy fats and antioxidants can support overall skin health, but dermatologists note that glowing skin typically reflects a combination of factors, including diet, hydration, sleep, genetics, and skincare habits.
© @jloYet health professionals caution against viewing any single ritual as a miracle solution. “There's no one magic bullet when it comes to health,” many integrative medicine experts emphasize. Instead, long-term wellness is usually the result of consistent habits such as eating nutrient-dense foods, exercising regularly, managing stress, and getting adequate sleep.
Should You Try It?
For most healthy adults, a small amount of high-quality extra virgin olive oil is considered safe and may offer nutritional benefits. However, experts suggest focusing less on the trend itself and more on the bigger picture of overall dietary quality.
© WWD via Getty ImagesIf the ritual helps someone consume more beneficial plant compounds and encourages healthier choices throughout the day, it may have value. Still, the real benefits are likely to come from sustained lifestyle habits rather than a single shot of olive oil and lemon juice each morning.
