Trendy or true: four social media health trends explained

(Xander Feigenbaum)

Red light therapy: Legit

The use of red light to encourage skin health was first used to treat early-stage cancers prior to finding a home in the beauty industry. Favorable studies date back to the 1960s showing red light’s capability to encourage hair growth and reduce wrinkles. It works through a process called photothermolysis, where specific light wavelengths are used to target the tissue. Shorter wavelengths kill dead skin whereas longer wavelengths stimulate new skin cell growth and dilate small blood vessels. However, further claims of red light therapy aiding in areas such as athletic performance are yet to be backed by scientific evidence.

Source: Stanford Medicine

(Xander Feigenbaum)

Cold plunges: Legit, with context

Taking a brief plunge in cold water after a workout has been shown to reduce soreness and inflammation. That being said, cold plunging still has its risks. The most obvious is the potential for frostbite or hypothermia. To avoid this, be sure to measure the temperature of the water before getting in to make sure it isn’t far below 50°. Any colder than this risks hypothermia. Work your way up gradually from an initial 30-second plunge to a maximum of 10 minutes. Additionally, those with cardiovascular issues, particularly high blood pressure, are more at risk for complications from cold plunging due to the shock on the body from the sudden temperature change. It’s best to check with a sports medicine doctor before you begin cold plunging.

Source: Mayo Clinic

(Xander Feigenbaum)

Probiotic supplements: Legit, with context

Probiotic supplements are over-the-counter products meant to improve gut health by encouraging the growth of healthy bacteria to aid in digestion. Since they are not considered drugs, their claims are not reviewed by the Food and Drug Administration. This means that the supplements’ listed health benefits are not officially verified and are to be taken with skepticism. Though these supplements may help, physicians suggest the best way to build a healthy gut is through eating probiotic food like yogurt and fermented vegetables.

Source: University of Texas

Detox teas: Fake

These teas, such as FullChea, LULUTOX and Yogi Tea, often come with claims that they will help the drinker lose weight or flush out toxins in their body. The products tend to fail on both of these counts. When it comes to weight loss, dieticians maintain that healthy dieting and exercise is the most effective method. The body also naturally cleans itself of toxins through organs like the liver and kidneys. Beyond ineffectiveness, some detox teas may actually be harmful, as the laxatives and caffeine often found in them can dysregulate the body.

Source: Brown University Health

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Trendy or true: four health trends explained

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