A doctor, who graduated from Harvard University, has gone viral after revealing the “high-risk” dangers of scented candles and incense sticks.
Dr Saurabh Sethi, a gastroenterologist, shares his experience and knowledge with his 336,000 followers on TikTok (@doctorsethimd).
He previously revealed the “lasting risks” of drinking too much alcohol – even red wine – claiming that regular consumption has been linked to various gut cancers, such as liver and colon.
Dr Sethi shocked viewers after pouring a whole bottle of wine down the drain and has now left viewers in awe once again after revealing the health dangers of using scented candles and incense sticks.
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In a clip posted on TikTok, which has racked up 1.2 million views and 17,000 likes, the 42-year-old explains how the relaxing fumes can put users at high risk of developing pneumonia.
He says: “As these candles [or sticks] burn, they let off a compound called alkane, which is actually also found in car exhaust.”
Dr Sethi, from California, US, explains that synthetic candle fumes also release paraffin and phthalates that can potentially disrupt hormone balance.
He does have some good news for candle lovers, though; there’s no need to give up using them.
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Dr Sethi advises getting a relaxing fix from ones made from real wax and natural scents to avoid “getting sick slowly”.
Users have flocked to the comments to share their reactions, with many people left deflated after hearing the dangers.
“All these years and now we can’t have candle…nothing safe,” one person commented.
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Another user added: “Me watching this lying in bed with scented candles burning…I swear my phone is watching me,” followed by a crying laughing emoji.
“I use them all the time with no problem lol mainly soy,” someone else said.
Mateo added: “CANT HAVE ANYTHING.”
“I have a goddamn subscription for candles all year long,” Robin said, followed by a laughing emoji.
Dr Sethi added: “Be cautious! Your favourite scented candles could be harming your lungs, leading to what’s termed ‘chemical pneumonia.’
“[…] while the ambience and scent from candles are hard to resist, consider switching to natural wax candles with clean scents.
“Enjoy the tranquillity without compromising your health.”
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