It is not new for weight loss trends to pop up, whether it is intermittent fasting, quitting carbs, ‘three-bite-rule’ etc. However, recently a new diet trend has gotten the attention of many people throughout the world, but not for the right reasons.

The ‘Pink Salt Diet Trend’ has seen an instant rise on the internet, however, what is actually fueling this rise? Does it actually work or is its false advertising?

Is Pink Salt An Ayurvedic Remedy?

According to Freedom from Diabetes organization, Himalayan pink salt, , also known as sendha namak, is often seen as a healthier alternative to regular table salt or sea salt. It's believed to be a better choice not only because of its mineral content but also because it contains slightly less sodium chloride than common table salt.

This salt comes from the Himalayan mountains and gets its signature pink color from trace amounts of minerals like magnesium, potassium, and calcium. It's often promoted as the purest form of salt because it is said to be free of chemicals. However, many experts have pointed out a key detail about these benefits. Not only is there not enough evidence of its benefits, they are also few and far between, meaning it isn’t too different from regular iodized salt.

Myth vs Reality: Is Pink Salt Actually Healthy?

It has been a few year since we have seen the slow rise of pink salt. Iodine Global Network experts pointed out that the salt is surrounded by myths. Despite its name, the salt doesn’t come from the Himalayas. It is actually mined from deep underground deposits in Pakistan. The pink color, often marketed as a sign of its health benefits, is simply due to small amounts of other minerals, which offer no real nutritional advantage.

Claims that pink salt can detoxify the body or that lamps made from it can purify the air are also false. The tiny amounts of trace minerals present are not enough to have any effect on health. A study by Australian scientists found that you would need to consume about six teaspoons of pink salt a day to get any significant nutrients from it—an amount that would be dangerously high in sodium and bad for your health.

Was The ‘Pink Salt Trick’ A Wellness Hack Or Scam?

On social media, "pink salt trick" is being heavily promoted, often using fake videos created with artificial intelligence (AI). These videos, some of which feature fake versions of celebrities like Oprah Winfrey, claim that a simple drink can "melt fat," "reset metabolism," and is "better than Ozempic." In reality, these are scams, and celebrities like Oprah have never endorsed them. The videos spread false health information.

The "pink salt" recipe is very simple, which is why it has become so popular: you just mix a half teaspoon of pink salt and the juice of half a lemon into a glass of water. The videos claim this drink is an easy way to lose weight.

However, there is no scientific evidence to support these claims. No studies have shown that this drink can cause weight loss or reduce appetite.

Experts, including nutritionists, have warned against this trend. They explain that the high salt content in the drink can actually cause water retention and bloating, rather than fat loss. Also, if people use pink salt instead of regular table salt, they risk not getting enough iodine, which can lead to thyroid problems.

Is The Pink Salt Trick Banking On The ‘Quick Weight Loss’ Scheme?

The truth about social media is that one thing that will always trend is the newest diet or the newest way to lose weight. It is also true that the moment it gains momentum, the trend will have hundreds if not thousands of people doing tricks or hacks to lose weight. While some may be doing it to see whether it works or not, others may do it because they are not happy with their weight and struggling to lose it.

This is why one must stay alert and fact check any claims with a healthcare professional, because your health comes first.

What Salt Should We Use: Pink Or Regular Iodized Salt?

The widespread use of iodized salt has been incredibly successful in reducing iodine deficiency worldwide. The International Council for the Control of Iodine Deficiency Disorders (IGN) works with governments and industries to make sure salt iodization programs continue, protecting public health and, most importantly, children’s brain development. As new trends like Himalayan pink salt emerge, it's important to prioritize health over hype and recognize that iodized salt remains a crucial part of a healthy diet.

The World Health Organization estimates that 10 percent (190 million) of reproductive-age women worldwide suffer from endometriosis.

The chronic and complex menstrual disease that affects many women is characterized by severe pain during menstruation, heavy menstrual bleeding, chronic pelvic pain (pain that does not go away when the menstrual cycle ends), infertility, and abdominal bloating and nausea.

The incurable condition poses a significant challenge to women as it affects their personal and professional lives, relationships, and fertility, among others, due to persistent pain and fatigue.

The diagnosis also gets delayed, as endometriosis is often confused with PCOS, or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, due to some overlapping symptoms like irregular menstrual periods. The symptoms may continue to persist or recur after treatment is initiated.

In a powerful statement resonating with millions worldwide, Indian American author and television host Padma Lakshmi has shared her experience with the condition.

Opening about her personal battle with endometriosis, the 55-year-old, Co-founder of Endometriosis Foundation of America, said that the condition made her understand how strong she is and called for greater awareness and self-advocacy among women.

"Endometriosis has taught me that I should always listen to my body. Pain is your body's way of telling you something is wrong,” said Lakshmi, in a media post on social media platform Instagram.

"Through my struggles with endometriosis, I've learned that, actually, I have a very high threshold for pain, that I may be stronger than I know, but that I shouldn't always need to be,” PopSugar quoted her as saying.

Lakshmi noted that it is now her life's mission "to advocate for my own health, and also to advocate for all women with endometriosis."

What Is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis happens when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus. These tissues commonly develop on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or the pelvic lining.

Endometriosis affects many women and can impact their daily lives, including their ability to work comfortably. Many women continue their professional responsibilities despite experiencing severe discomfort, fatigue, and pain.

Raising awareness about the condition and encouraging supportive workplaces can help women manage both their health and career more effectively.

Since it is a progressive disorder, timely intervention remains key to managing it. In many cases, women live with symptoms for several years before receiving the correct diagnosis, which can delay treatment and affect their quality of life.

Treating Endometriosis

Treatment is particularly based on the severity of symptoms. Women will be advised lifestyle modifications such as regular exercise, stress management, and an anti-inflammatory diet. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may help reduce discomfort.

Hormonal therapies may also be used to control symptoms. Some women will be advised to undergo laparoscopy to remove endometriotic cysts.

Minimally invasive surgery can help remove lesions and restore pelvic anatomy, which may also improve fertility in some cases. In advanced cases, surgery can be recommended to women.

In a shocking incident, a woman contracted the herpes virus after using shared lipstick samples at a cosmetic store, raising concerns about makeup hygiene.

The incident highlights the risks involved in trying products that come into direct contact with the skin and are shared with a lot of people.

Also Read: World Autism Awareness Day 2026: Can Cell Therapy Be The Future Of Autism Treatment?

What Is Herpes?

The herpes simplex virus (HSV) is very common, and the infection is lifelong. But the symptoms can come and go over different periods of life. Many people never get any symptoms linked to their infection.

The common virus, carried by up to 50 to 80 percent of adults, can cause painful blisters or ulcers. It primarily spreads by skin-to-skin contact. It is treatable but not curable.

There are two types of herpes simplex virus: HSV-1 and HSV-2.

HSV- 1 is the most common and usually spreads by oral contact. It causes infections in or around the mouth (such as oral herpes or cold sores), as well as genital herpes.

Common oral herpes symptoms include

• blisters (cold sores)
• open sores (ulcers) in or around the mouth or lips.

HSV-2 generally spreads by sexual contact and causes genital herpes.

Its symptoms include painful

• bumps,
• blisters,
• open sores (ulcers) around the genitals or anus.

How Makeup Testers Can Spread Infection

Experts warned that makeup testers can become a breeding ground for germs. The repeated use of the open samples can spur their growth and can then spread by “double-dipping” — reusing an applicator after touching the skin. This can transfer viruses and bacteria between users.

“You can absolutely get a herpes infection from a makeup tester," Dr. Whitney Bowe, a dermatologist in New York City, told TODAY. "The more ‘double dipping’ that occurs, the higher the chance of spreading viruses or bacteria at a makeup counter.”

A 2010 study by researchers from Rowan University in New Jersey found that cosmetic samples harbored strep, E.coli, and staph.

For two years, the team examined makeup testers at makeup counters, specialty stores, and drug stores. They found that Saturday is the busiest day of the week, and 100 percent of the samples carried some sort of germ.

How To Stay Safe?

To reduce the risk of infection, experts recommend:

• Much like the toothbrush, personal cosmetics and cosmetic brushes must not be shared.
• Wash and dry your brushes regularly to avoid bacterial growth.
• Avoid applying testers directly to your lips or skin
• Use disposable applicators
• Test products on your hand rather than your face
• Avoid using testers if you have cuts, chapped lips, or active infections.

April 2 is celebrated worldwide as “Autism Awareness Day” and April as Autism month to create awareness and promote inclusivity and acceptance in society for individuals with autism.

So what exactly is Autism, and why do we need to create a culture of awareness and acceptance?

As per DSM V (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) criteria, in simple terms, there is poor eye contact, impaired social communication skills, repetitive patterns (certain movements or fixation on certain toys, objects), difficulties with sensory processing - extreme sensitivity to sensory inputs (dislike loud noises, sensitive to touch), etc.

As a child, these individuals may not respond to name-calling, have poor eye contact/lack gestures like pointing, etc., lack imagination in play, and may not be able to relate and respond to the emotions of others. They have set routines and dislike changes to their routines. All this can cause significant disruption to their day-to-day functioning.

This year’s theme of -Autism and Humanity- Every Life has Value” reiterates the need for inclusion of autism, ensuring equitable representation of these individuals. Ensuring that society not only recognizes them but also treats them with equal respect and dignity.

Educational Support and Inclusive Workplace

Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) was one of the Government's flagship programs, along with Action for Autism, to disseminate information in schools regarding inclusive education for autism. Education is a key foundation to ensure children with autism get suitable opportunities as adults. Special educators, with additional support in schools, can go a long way in ensuring their potential is maximized.

Many IT giants like Microsoft, Google, and SAP encourage tapping the potential of individuals with autism and their exceptional skills. In our country, organizations and NGOs, including Action for Autism, offer training for future employment opportunities.

There is a spectrum of Autistic Spectrum Disorders (ASD) known as Asperger’s syndrome, and these individuals have normal to above average intelligence and can have some exceptional skills, and the world includes some living examples of these with a higher IQ, some of whom are the most successful and famous personalities. Even on the other end of the spectrum, autistic individuals have exceptional skills, some of which include great attention to detail, creativity, problem-solving, and lateral out-of-the-box thinking.

Options for flexible working hours (part-time), understanding their need for routines, and explaining them beforehand regarding important changes to schedules can help them adapt better to an otherwise challenging workplace.

The Need For Sensitization

Understanding individuals with autism may need little extra support, being a little flexible with time deadlines, giving simple instructions, especially written/visual ones, and allowing them time to overcome their communication barriers can go a long way in ensuring they feel heard and valued like anyone else in the workplace.

Sensitization of all major organization employees to foster a culture of acceptance and awareness, and an accessible work environment, is the need of the hour. Autistic individuals do well in a variety of job profiles, including IT, technology, finance, art and creativity, and administration.

Environmental modifications like background noise cancellation with headphones help those with sensory processing issues. At the end of the day, none of us is perfect, it's recognizing our special skills and strengthening them.

Possibilities are endless if we wish to encourage and make these individuals heard. So, let’s carry the Autism Awareness Day beyond a mere day of awareness and light it up blue. Let’s value and acknowledge them being different, but also empower them to act on their special skills to earn them a dignified place in society and the workplace.