A doctor who graduated from Harvard University has gone viral after revealing how dangerous wearing shoes indoors can be.
Dr Saurabh Sethi, a gastroenterologist, shares his experience and knowledge with his 499,000 followers on TikTok (@doctorsethimd).
He recently issued a shocking warning for those who consume less than one teaspoon of salt per day – noting that it’s “extremely harmful”.
Now, the 42-year-old is urging people not to wear shoes indoors – especially in your own home – as it can be potentially “life-threatening”, reports What’s The Jam.
In the clip, which has racked up 122,000 views and over a thousand likes, he explains that as a doctor, he follows a strict “no outdoor shoes inside home” policy.
“This is because shoes can carry various toxins,” Dr Sethi, from California, US, says.
“Including pesticides, chemicals, viruses and bacteria, [as well as] heavy metals like lead.”
The doctor refers back to research that shows 96% of shoe soles carry faecal bacteria, including E. coli.
He continues: “This can lead to severe gut infections and UTIs.
“This is especially concerning in homes with crawling children, who have a habit of putting everything in their mouths.”
To minimise the risks, he strongly urges people to remove their shoes before entering any home.
Users have flocked to the comments to share their reactions.
“That’s a number one rule in my home,” Layla said.
Another user added: “None of my family wear outdoor shoes inside. We have our shoes near the front door.”
“My culture don’t allow shoes in my house,” Ana commented.
Someone else said: “I’ve been wearing shoes inside all my life never had a gut infection or utis.”
“So my mom was right?” Marcello added.
READ MORE: Influencer goes viral sharing brutal reality of £5,400 nose job
