TikTok’s latest food trend is a raw carrot salad that promises to balance hormones and improve digestion. The simple recipe involves grating carrots and mixing them with lemon juice, ginger, and a drizzle of honey. However, many wonders if there’s any truth to the health claims made by the trend. To get to the bottom of things, we asked nutritionists to weigh in.
Image Credit: Shutterstock/Zu Kamilov
First and foremost, it’s important to note that while carrots are a nutritious food, they are unlikely to impact hormone balance significantly. A complex interplay of factors regulates hormones, including diet, lifestyle, and genetics. While eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, including carrots, can support overall health and potentially impact hormones, it’s unlikely that a single food or recipe will solve hormonal imbalances.
That being said, specific components of the raw carrot salad recipe could potentially have positive health effects. For example, lemon juice provides vitamin C and may support the liver, which affects hormone regulation. Ginger has anti-inflammatory effects may also support digestive health, which can indirectly impact hormones.
However, it’s also worth noting that some of the ingredients in the recipe could have adverse effects. For example, honey boosts sugar, which can cause spikes in insulin levels. Over time, high insulin levels can disrupt hormone balance and contribute to conditions like insulin resistance.
Image Credit: Shutterstock/Charlotte Lake
Raw carrot salad is a tasty and nutritious snack on TikTok, but it is unlikely to impact hormone balance significantly. However, incorporating carrots and other healthy foods into your diet as a balanced eating plan can support overall health and potentially affect hormones. It’s always a good idea to speak with a healthcare provider or registered dietitian to determine the best approach for your individual health needs.