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Are TikTok’s Health Tips Backed by Science? A Comparison of Autozen Picks and Mouth Taping

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The influx of unrealistic health tips on TikTok signals the beginning of a new year. Let’s explore some intriguing suggestions and the evidence behind them.

Try wearing rubber bands around your ears to reduce facial swelling

A TikTok trend from South Korea suggests wrapping rubber bands around your ears for 10 minutes to combat facial swelling, claiming to facilitate lymphatic fluid movement. However, science does not support this theory. While lymphatic massage can temporarily reduce swelling by stroking outwards, there is no evidence to validate the rubber bands’ effectiveness.

Professor Hywel Williams, an expert in evidence-based dermatology at the University of Nottingham, points out that many TikTok videos feature individuals without facial puffiness, potentially leading to unnecessary worry and anxiety. He suggests a comprehensive trial where individuals with facial swelling wear various items like rubber bands and cotton, with their swelling assessed by independent estheticians before and after. Williams emphasizes the importance of conducting proper scientific studies to verify health claims.

Experimenting with garlic in your nose for sinus cleansing

TikTok showcases individuals showcasing giant mucus bubbles or a stream of snot expelled after inserting garlic in their nostrils, claiming it alleviates nasal congestion. However, experts like Simon, a consultant ear, nose, and throat specialist, refute this, stating that the mucus production is a response to the strong garlic odor, not a sign of congestion relief.

Exploring the benefits of applying castor oil in the belly button for bloating reduction

Some TikTokers advocate for applying castor oil on the belly button, known as belly button lubrication, to aid digestion, reduce bloating, and alleviate menstrual pain and endometriosis. This practice originates from Ayurveda, claiming that essential oils are absorbed through the “pechoti glands” in the belly button. However, research has yet to confirm the existence of such glands, casting doubt on the effectiveness of this technique.

Dr. Gemma Sharp, an epidemiologist at the University of Exeter, highlights the lack of scientific evidence supporting the use of castor oil for weight loss or managing endometriosis symptoms. She warns against relying on unproven home remedies that may potentially trigger allergic reactions.

Consider the weight loss benefits of Oat Empic

Ozempic, a diabetes medication known for its weight loss effects, contains semaglutide, a compound that slows digestion. TikTok users have popularized Oatzempik, a mixture of oats, water, and lime juice, suggesting similar weight loss benefits. While the claim is unverified, weight loss ultimately depends on calorie balance. Oats, however, contain beta-glucan, a soluble fiber that may aid weight loss and BMI reduction.

Explore the concept of mouth taping for health benefits

Mouth breathing at night can lead to dry mouth, sore throats, and snoring. Mouth taping, using porous tape to encourage nasal breathing, aims to filter allergens and humidify inhaled air. While limited studies suggest it may reduce snoring in mild obstructive sleep apnea, caution is advised as it can pose risks, particularly for individuals with sleep disorders. Consultation with an otolaryngologist is recommended before attempting mouth taping, especially for those with respiratory issues.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Which Animal is Smarter: Cats or Dogs? A Scientific Comparison.

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The debate on whether cats or dogs are smarter has been ongoing for ages. Dogs typically have larger brains than cats, with more neurons in their cerebral cortex and brains overall. Golden Retrievers, for example, have been found to have 623 million neurons in their cortex compared to 429 million in small dogs and 250 million in cats.

It’s not just about the number of neurons, though. Dogs have been studied more extensively than cats, making their intelligence capabilities more well-known. Cats are harder to study due to their aversion to new environments like laboratories.

Researchers have categorized the intelligence of pets based on three main factors.

Social Intelligence

Social cognition, or an animal’s ability to understand the mental states of others, can be evaluated through unsolvable tasks. For example, when faced with a closed container, dogs are known to turn to humans for help, displaying referential signaling similar to pointing. Cats, on the other hand, are less likely to seek help but show some level of visual communication skills.

When it comes to “counting,” both cats and dogs can discriminate between quantities. Studies have shown that vision plays a crucial role in this ability, with neither species relying heavily on other senses.

Self-awareness

The mirror test, a common method for testing self-recognition, has shown that cats and dogs do not pass the visual test. However, studies have explored the olfactory version of the mirror test, with dogs showing the ability to recognize scents associated with themselves or other dogs.

Cats have also demonstrated the ability to distinguish their feces from others, indicating a level of self-awareness based on smell.

Final Verdict

Intelligence in pets is multifaceted and context-dependent. Cats and dogs exhibit intelligence in different ways, influenced by factors such as genetics, socialization, and training. While some dogs may excel in tasks like remembering toy names, each pet has its unique strengths.

Ultimately, both cats and dogs are intelligent creatures in their own right, deserving of love and appreciation for their individual characteristics.

Source: www.sciencefocus.com