NHS doctor warns ‘stop buying these’ popular health drinks

An NHS doctor has raised concerns about popular health drinks that many people consume. Dr Karan Rajan, a surgeon, author, and social media influencer known as Dr Raj on Instagram and TikTok, regularly provides medical advice to his millions of followers. He often debunks health claims circulating on social media platforms. In a recent post, Dr Raj urged individuals to avoid certain store-bought health drinks and instead create their own beverages at home for superior health benefits.

Dr Raj recommended using lemons and oranges as a base for homemade wellness drinks, citing their pectin content that acts as a prebiotic to support gut bacteria. He highlighted the anti-inflammatory properties and high vitamin C content of these citrus fruits, which are essential for gut health. Additionally, Dr Raj suggested adding ginger for its benefits in aiding digestion and reducing bloating and discomfort. He also emphasised the synergy between black pepper and turmeric, noting their combined anti-inflammatory effects.

Furthermore, Dr Raj advised including olive oil in the homemade drinks to facilitate the absorption of beneficial compounds. He explained that store-bought versions often lack essential fibre found in the pulp and pith of fruits, which are typically filtered out. To balance out any bitterness, he recommended adding honey and mint for their taste and digestive benefits. The doctor concluded by emphasising the importance of water in achieving the desired consistency of the drink.

While store-bought health drinks may be convenient, Dr Karan Rajan’s advice promotes a more natural and beneficial option for individuals looking to enhance their gut health. By creating homemade wellness drinks with simple ingredients like citrus fruits, ginger, turmeric, olive oil, honey, and mint, individuals can potentially improve their overall well-being without relying on processed beverages. Taking the time to prepare these drinks at home may offer not only health benefits but also a sense of empowerment and control over one’s dietary choices.