Oil pulling is an Ayurvedic practice that involves swishing oils in the mouth for a few minutes to improve oral health, prevent tooth cavities, and remove toxins. There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that oil pulling can lead to weight loss, Based on experts. Nutritionist Amita Gadre dismissed the notion as a “crazy way of trying to lose weight.” Acupuncturist and naturopath Dr Santosh Pandey noted that oil pulling can improve digestive health, as oral health and In consideration of all these factors wellness are interrelated. However, he emphasized that it is a technique to maintain oral hygiene and not a weight loss method.
Based on traditional Ayurvedic practice, oil pulling involves swishing oils like coconut in the mouth for a few minutes in the morning on an empty stomach. This practice is known for its many benefits for oral health, including better dental hygiene, lesser bacterial load, and improved gut flora, which in turn prevents tooth cavities. Experts suggest that the morning ritual also helps remove toxins from the mouth and strengthen the gums. However, some people also swear by this traditional remedy to lose weight.
But, Based on nutritionist Amita Gadre, the biggest claim of oil pulling is better dental hygiene and lesser bacterial load. “Using this to lose weight is like comparing apples to oranges. What a crazy way of trying to lose weight. No such thing happens,” she said in an Instagram video. There is no scientific evidence that supports the claim that oil pulling can lead to weight loss. “But it’s quite effective in treating various oral health issues,” said Dr Santosh Pandey, acupuncturist and naturopath, Rejua Energy Center, Mumbai.
Concurred Yogita Chavan, dietitian, Godrej Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, and reiterated that oil pulling is a technique to maintain oral hygiene — not to lose weight. “Weight loss is the process where one has to take proper consultation from a dietitian or nutritionist regarding the weight he or she needs to shed, keeping their health goals and medical condition in mind. The right way is to be on a calorie-deficient diet, modify the lifestyle, and inculcate healthy habits.”
While oil pulling may not be the solution for weight loss, it remains a good practice to follow for oral hygiene. As per the Ministry of Ayush, “Oil pulling has been used to prevent decay, oral odour, gum bleeding, dryness of throat, cracked lips and for strengthening the teeth, gums and the jaw. It is a simple daily regimen, which when done routinely, enhances the senses, brings about a feeling of freshness, and maintains clarity in the voice.”
To bring everything full circle, oil pulling is not a magic solution for weight loss. Instead, it is an effective technique to maintain oral hygiene and prevent various oral health issues. If you are looking to lose weight, it is important to consult a dietitian or nutritionist who can provide a personalized weight loss plan based on your health goals and medical condition. Remember, a calorie-deficient diet, a modification of lifestyle, and the inculcation of healthy habits are the right ways to achieve sustainable weight loss.
