Australian doctor busts huge TikTok breast myth

An Aussie doctor has revealed the truth about a viral TikTok claim that one key food item can miraculously boost women’s breast sizes.

Welcome to Ask Doctor Zac, a weekly column from news.com.au. This week, Dr Zac Turner explores a TikTok trend that claims to boost breast size.

QUESTION: Hi Dr Zac, I’m 21 and have been seeing heaps of posts on TikTok over the past year saying that bee pollen can help make your breasts grow. I’m a B cup and think this could be good to try, but I’m also cash strapped at the moment – so I don’t want to throw money around if it simply wont work. Is there any truth to this? Should I try it? – Ebbeny, Cronulla, NSW

ANSWER: Hey Ebbeny, I love that you’re curious and asking questions before diving into the latest TikTok trend.

When it comes to something like this, where a few spoons of bee pollen are supposedly a natural “boob job”, it’s good to have a reality check.

Let’s dive in and see what bee pollen can – and can’t – actually do.

What is bee pollen, anyway?

Bee pollen isn’t just something bees make, it’s a mix of plant pollen, nectar, enzymes, honey and a touch of wax.

Think of it as nature’s multivitamin. It’s packed with nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, amino acids and antioxidants, which are all great for your overall health, immune system and energy levels.

Does bee pollen increase breast size? Picture: iStock

The breast growth buzz: Science v social media

Now, let’s get to the part you’re curious about – TikTok claims that bee pollen can help your breasts grow.

This idea comes from the fact that bee pollen contains small amounts of something called phytoestrogens – plant compounds that act a bit like oestrogen. Since oestrogen is the hormone responsible for breast development during puberty, pregnancy and in some contraceptives, the theory sounds logical on the surface.

But, unfortunately, there’s no scientific evidence to support the idea that bee pollen can actually increase breast size.

The research breakdown

Here’s what we know from the science side: phytoestrogens from foods like soy and flaxseeds have only mild effects on the body, and even these don’t typically impact breast size.

Bee pollen, while nutrient-rich, contains only trace amounts of these compounds – nowhere near the levels required to influence breast growth.

TikTok claims that bee pollen can help your breasts grow.

Research in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism and Food Chemistry shows that phytoestrogens can have mild, short-lived oestrogen-like effects, but they’re not potent enough to stimulate actual breast tissue growth in a lasting or noticeable way.

Your body’s own oestrogen is far stronger than anything plant-based.

Does that mean bee pollen is useless?

Absolutely not.

Bee pollen does have a lot of health benefits – just not for breast growth.

Studies show that it has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can support immunity, energy and even reduce inflammation.

So if you’re looking to feel more energised or to support your immune system, adding a little bee pollen to your smoothie isn’t a bad idea at all.

Bee pollen has health benefits. Picture: Supplied

Just remember this. Social media is full of quick-fix health hacks that rarely hold up when tested. From “nature’s cereal” to chlorophyll for clearer skin, there’s always something trending. But real, lasting health benefits often come from a balanced diet, regular exercise and taking care of your mental health – not from a single “miracle” ingredient.

If you’re hoping for bigger breasts, bee pollen just isn’t the answer. It can be a great addition to your diet for its nutritional value, but it’s not going to change your shape.

When it comes to altering breast size, options backed by evidence and guided by a healthcare provider are the safest way forward.

So, go ahead and enjoy bee pollen as a superfood boost if you like, but don’t expect it to boost your bust. And remember, you’re perfect just the way you are.

Got a question?[e-mail]

Follow Dr Zac on Instagram

Dr Zac Turner is a medical practitioner specialising in preventative health and wellness. He has four health/medical degrees – Bachelor of Medicine/Bachelor of Surgery at the University of Sydney, Bachelor of Nursing at Central Queensland University, and Bachelor of Biomedical Science at the University of the Sunshine Coast. He is a registrar for the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine, and is completing a PhD in Biomedical Engineering (UNSW). Dr Zac is the medical director for his own holistic wellness medical clinics throughout Australia, Concierge Doctors.

Originally published as Australian doctor busts huge TikTok breast myth