The article discusses the new trend of steeping lettuce leaves in tea as a purported sleep aid. Despite its popularity, experts, including dietitian Harbstreet, argue that there is no scientific proof that this method is effective in humans. The trend likely stems from animal studies showing sleep-promoting properties in romaine lettuce, but this does not translate into human efficacy. The article also highlights the troubling nature of TikTok trends in creating unrealistic health standards that often lead to disordered eating behaviors and a skewed perception of healthy lifestyles.
"There is no scientific evidence to suggest this sleep aid works in humans," Harbstreet said.
"As a dietitian, I see many of these trends as the manifestation of our culture's deeply disordered relationship with food and health," Harbstreet said.
"I have some growing concerns about what damage this is doing to our perception of not only what 'healthy' eating looks like, but also who we look to when we think of how to be 'healthy,'" Harbstreet said.
"Videos like this speak to the effort of TikTok influencers to gain clout by hopping on trends."
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