TikToker sparks debate with 'absurd' health advice: 'Isn't supposed to be eaten'

There's nothing some people wouldn't do to improve their health and wellbeing, but where do we draw the line? This question has been stirred up by a TikToker after she posted a video promoting the consumption of eggshells to boost calcium intake. Health and wellness influencer Shannen Michaela, who regularly shares tips with her followers, claims that incorporating eggshells into her diet has been a game-changer.

"The eggshell is one of my favourite parts," she said in a recent TikTok. "We go through so many eggs in our household, so I thought it was about time we start using the shell, which is super high in calcium," she shared.

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"It's super simple to make. Just wash your eggshells, pop them in the oven for 20 minutes at 180 degrees, and then grind them up. The flavour is super mild and nutty, so you can just add it into bolognese or smoothies or whatever, really."

Her video has garnered a mix of reactions, with some users expressing curiosity and others outright disbelief.

"I wasn't egg...specting that," commented one user.

"Eggshells are so underrated," added another.

A few followers shared their positive experiences, with one saying, "I was deficient in calcium, I started grinding down eggshells and now I have no problems."

Unconventional health hack divides opinion

However, not everyone was convinced this was altogether a great idea.

"Isn't the eggshell too high in calcium or something, and we shouldn't have it?" one user asked.

Another questioned the necessity: "Do you really need THAT much extra calcium though...? It's not the first thing people need to supplement."

Scepticism was further fuelled by health concerns.

"Eggshells can have salmonella on them, FYI," warned one user.

"What's next? Rhino horn?" another sarcastically commented.

One particularly blunt response stated, "This is absurd. Nature gave us smell and taste to recognise what food is appropriate for us. Any food that doesn't taste nice by itself isn't supposed to be eaten."

Some long-time followers even expressed their disapproval, with one writing, "I've been following you for ages... but I can't do this."

Another added, "I feed these back to my chickens but I’d never eat them…"

Expert opinion on eating eggshells

Amidst the online discussions, food scientist and nutrition researcher Dr. Vincent offered expert insight to clarify the situation.

Speaking with Yahoo Lifestyle, Dr. Vincent affirmed, "Yes, eggshells are made of calcium (and other stuff) and are a good source of calcium."

Dr. Vincent went on to emphasise the importance of cleaning and sterilising eggshells—either by oven baking or boiling—before grinding them for consumption, ensuring safety.

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He also cautioned against consuming raw eggshells due to the potential risk of salmonella and advised moderation in their use.

"Too much of a good thing is bad," Dr. V elaborated. "Overdosing on calcium can cause health issues such as poor muscle tone, poor kidney function, low phosphate levels, constipation, nausea, weight loss, extreme tiredness, frequent need to urinate, abnormal heart rhythms, and heart disease."

Dr. Vincent also reiterated that their are other great calcium sources, including dark green leafy veggies, seeds, and beans.

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