TikTok Health Trends That Experts Actually Recommend: Reverse Thinning Hair, Tiredness + More
More than 34 million videos are posted daily — and these hacks actually work!
Even if you’re not a TikTok user, you’ve likely heard of the platform, where everyday folks post videos, home hacks, recipes and health tips. In particular, health and wellness content has increased by 600% since 2021. But with influencers peddling so many supposed magic elixirs, it can be hard to discern the snake oil from the genuine remedies. So we asked experts to weigh in on three popular TikTok health trends.
The problem with health content on TikTok
“TikTok disseminates a lot of good health information to people who may otherwise not have access to it,” says Michelle Henry, MD, clinical instructor of dermatology at Weill Cornell Medicine. She’s quick to add that there is another more cautionary side to that coin: “TikTok’s algorithm can also be a powerful tool of persuasion, and we can fall into a rabbit hole of dubious content.” The good news? Our experts say these three popular Titktok health trends are safe and effective.
Smart TikTok health trend: Berberine for blood sugar
Derived from the herb goldenseal, berberine increases insulin sensitivity, says Elizabeth Bradley, MD, former medical director of the Cleveland Clinic’s Center for Functional Medicine. No wonder it’s such a buzzy topic on TikTok. “Most studies suggest you have to take it for three months, but we see glucose levels coming down after just a couple of weeks.” One study revealed berberine slashed blood sugar by 20%. “It also increases Akkermansia, a gut bug that breaks down sugar — a lack of it is linked with a higher risk of diabetes.” Plus, berberine spurs weight loss by curbing the growth of fat cells. Dr. Bradley suggests taking 500 mg. two to three times a day with a meal. Her pick: Pure Encapsulations Berberine UltraSorb (buy at PureForYou.com, $49.50 for 60 capsules).
Related: Berberine Is the Natural Ozempic That’s Helping Women Over 50 Lose Weight
Smart Tiktok health trend: Rosemary oil for thinning hair
TikTok is full of reputed remedies promising Rapunzel-like results. And while many viral tips are more anecdotal than factual, one strategy stands out: massaging your scalp with rosemary oil. “It contains anti-inflammatory carnosic acid, shown to help regrow hair,” reveals Dr. Henry. One study showed topical rosemary treatments increased blood flow to follicles, regrowing hair as effectively as a 2% solution of minoxidil. Sprinkle 5 to 10 drops of rosemary oil in 1 oz. of a carrier oil (like jojoba), adds family nurse practitioner Jodi LoGerfo. “Jojoba isn’t as greasy as other oils and is absorbed easily by skin.” Massage into your scalp one to two times a week; let it sit 30 minutes before shampooing.
Related: How to Style Thinning Hair So It Looks Twice as Thick — 9 Must-Try Tricks
Smart Tiktok health trend: a mocktail for an energy boost
A fatigue-fighting and slimming sip? Look no further than #AdrenalCocktail on TikTok.
The super-hydrating elixirs perk up tired adrenals, glands that release adrenaline and cortisol, says Izabella Wentz, PharmD, author of Adrenal Transformation Protocol. “These hormones establish our stress tolerance, tame inflammation, regulate body fat and more.” Rather than sift through countless cocktails on the app, just try Wentz’s Adrenal Kickstart. “It tastes like a Creamsicle!” she says.
To make: In a blender, combine ½ cup of fresh orange juice (vitamin C supports adrenals), ¼ cup of full-fat coconut milk (its fat counterbalances the sugar in OJ), ½ serving of protein powder (for blood-sugar balance) and ½ tsp. of sea salt (to regulate energy). Blend until frothy and enjoy! Click through for more adrenal cocktail recipes.
For more TikTok trends, keep reading:
Hair Cycling Is the TikTok Trend That Can Make Your Hair Look Healthy, Shiny and Full
Professional Stretching Is the Latest 50-Plus TikTok Trend — But What Is It?
Could This TikTok-Trendy Tea Be the Next Superfood? What to Know About Chaga
This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice or diagnosis. Always consult your physician before pursuing any treatment plan.
