The olive oil lemon shot has become a viral beauty and wellness trend, and registered nutritionist Kayla Wu (胡嘉琪) breaks down who may benefit and who should be cautious.
What is the olive oil lemon shot?
The olive oil lemon shot is a simple mix of extra virgin olive oil and fresh lemon juice that has surged in popularity on social media, in part after being associated with K-pop star Jang Wonyoung. Proponents say the drink supports skin health, slows visible aging, and helps relieve constipation.
Nutrition science behind olive oil and lemon
According to Kayla Wu, a registered nutritionist with the Hong Kong Nutritionists Association, olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, polyphenols, and vitamin E. These antioxidants help neutralize free radicals and may slow cellular aging, while the oil itself can help moisturize skin from the inside.
Fresh lemon juice provides vitamin C, a key cofactor in collagen synthesis that supports skin elasticity and tone, Wu said. Together, the two ingredients offer complementary antioxidant and skin-supporting nutrients, but they are not a magic cure for aging.
When the olive oil lemon shot can cause problems
Wu said that while the olive oil lemon shot can be incorporated into a healthy diet, drinking the mixture on an empty stomach is not appropriate for everyone. The oil can irritate a sensitive stomach and trigger nausea, cramping, or loose stools in some people.
She added that lemon juice is highly acidic and may prompt excess stomach acid when consumed alone. People with peptic ulcer disease, chronic gastritis, or gastroesophageal reflux disease should avoid taking the mixture on an empty stomach or before bed, she advised.
Taking the olive oil lemon shot right before sleep can also increase the risk of acid reflux and heartburn, Wu said. At night the digestive system is meant to rest; consuming a fatty, acidic drink may force bile and pancreatic enzymes to remain active and could add strain for some people.
Store-bought lemon olive oil versus homemade
On the market you will find a range of products labeled lemon olive oil, but not all are the same. Wu recommends checking the ingredient list: some products are olive oil infused with lemon peel for aroma and contain little or no vitamin C, while others include real lemon juice.
If a bottle lists extra virgin olive oil and fresh lemon juice on the label, its nutritional profile will be similar to a homemade mix. When buying prepared products, look for clear ingredient statements and a reputable producer, Wu said.
How to use the olive oil lemon shot safely
Rather than downing an olive oil lemon shot on an empty stomach, Wu suggests incorporating the ingredients into meals. Mix olive oil and fresh lemon juice to make a vinaigrette, drizzle it over a salad, or enjoy with whole grain bread to reduce gastric irritation and improve nutrient absorption.
One tablespoon of olive oil is about 15 milliliters and contains roughly 110 to 120 calories, Wu noted, so portion control matters. Regularly consuming large amounts of any oil will add calories and can lead to weight gain if not balanced with overall energy needs.
Finally, Wu emphasized that antiaging and skin health cannot rely on a single food or drink alone. She recommended a balanced diet, adequate sleep, sunscreen use, and consistent skin care as the foundation for long-term results.
About the expert: Kayla Wu (胡嘉琪) is a registered nutritionist with the Hong Kong Nutritionists Association and a nutritionist at the Home Nutrition Center. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Food and Nutritional Science from the University of Northumbria, and she specializes in practical, individualized meal planning.
Learn more: Kayla Wu, Home Nutrition Center, Facebook page.
