Cardiologist Warns Against Viral Olive Oil Shot Trend, Calling It ‘Not Good for the Heart or Waistline’
UNITED STATES – A cardiologist has issued a public warning against the viral health trend of drinking olive oil shots every morning, calling the practice potentially harmful despite the oil’s well-known benefits. The trend, which has gained millions of views on TikTok and Instagram, claims that consuming a spoonful or shot of olive oil on an empty stomach can improve digestion, boost heart health, and even aid in weight loss.
Dr. Heather Shenkman, known online as @veganheartdoc, says the growing fad oversimplifies nutrition science and may actually backfire for people trying to protect their heart and cholesterol levels.
Why Olive Oil Shots Became Popular
Extra virgin olive oil, often referred to as “liquid gold”, has long been associated with Mediterranean diets and reduced risk of heart disease and inflammation. According to the Cleveland Clinic, it contains antioxidants and healthy fats that can lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and reduce oxidative stress.
Dietitian Julia Zumpano has previously explained that olive oil, when used properly, offers unique benefits that other fats can’t match. “It has antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties from the types of fat it has. No other oils provide as many benefits as extra virgin olive oil can. It’s the far superior oil,” she said.
Those endorsements have inspired many wellness influencers to start their mornings with a shot or spoonful of olive oil, claiming it boosts energy, supports skin health, and improves digestion. One social media user even described herself as “shocked by the wide-reaching benefits” after drinking olive oil daily for two weeks.
Dr. Shenkman: ‘Do Not Drink Olive Oil Shots’
Despite the hype, Dr. Shenkman — an interventional cardiologist and endurance athlete — warns that drinking olive oil directly is not a heart-healthy habit. In a TikTok video shared by 1MD Nutrition, she admitted she finds the trend both “funny and frustrating.”
“When patients tell me they’re now drinking a shot of olive oil for heart health, I can’t help but laugh,” Dr. Shenkman said. “It is not good for their heart, it’s not good for their cholesterol, and it’s not good for their waistline.”
She emphasized that while olive oil and olives themselves do contain beneficial nutrients, the method of consumption matters. “Yes, olive oil has benefits,” she said, “but no, you should not be drinking a shot of olive oil.”
Dr. Shenkman, who has followed a plant-based diet since 2005, believes overall diet quality and physical activity are far more important for cardiovascular health than isolated daily habits like drinking oil.
Other Experts Agree on Potential Side Effects
Nutrition experts have echoed Dr. Shenkman’s warning, noting that drinking olive oil straight can cause digestive discomfort, nausea, or weight gain.
According to Health.com, the oil’s high calorie content makes it unsuitable as a stand-alone daily shot. Instead, experts recommend incorporating it naturally into meals — such as on salads, vegetables, or in cooking — where it combines with other nutrients for balanced absorption.
“Taking olive oil as a shot instead of combining it with other healthy foods isn’t necessary,” the report adds. The site also cautions that excessive consumption can lead to calorie imbalance and unintended weight gain over time.
A Balanced Approach to Heart Health
While extra virgin olive oil remains a cornerstone of heart-healthy diets, medical professionals stress moderation. Replacing saturated fats with small, controlled portions of olive oil — not adding it in excess — is the safest way to benefit from its nutrients.
As Dr. Shenkman concludes, “There’s no shortcut to heart health. Real results come from a balanced diet, daily movement, and consistency — not from drinking oil.”
Residents are reminded to consult healthcare providers before making any major dietary changes or following online trends that promise fast results.
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