Busting Common Health Myths

We’ve all heard them before: widely believed health truisms that have been passed down from our parents or grandparents. But just because they’re age-old doesn’t mean they’ve aged well. Here are ten common medical misconceptions you should reconsider.

Physical frights 

Will a particular behavior cause you harm?

Myth: Cracking your knuckles will lead to joint issues such as arthritis.
Fact: A satisfying habit for some, an annoying one to others—yet it’s not arthritis causing.

Myth: Going outside with a wet head causes a cold.
Fact: Doing so may make you feel colder, but it won’t make you sick; viruses will.

Myth: Reading in dim light will ruin your eyesight.
Fact: At most, this may merely cause eye strain and headaches.

Myth: You need to wait thirty minutes between eating and swimming or risk drowning.
Fact: A waiting period of any length isn’t necessary. Focus on staying hydrated instead.

Food and drink

What should you consume or not consume, and when?

Myth: Your goal should be eight 8-ounce glasses of water per day.
Fact: Your ideal water intake depends on factors like your body weight, gender, and health.

Myth: Fresh fruit is better than its frozen counterpart.
Fact: Frozen fruit may actually have more nutrients since it is preserved at peak ripeness.

Myth: Sugar causes hyperactivity in kids.
Fact: Sucrose can certainly cause health problems; however, a sugar rush isn’t one.

Myth: If food drops to the floor, you can safely eat it if you retrieve it within five seconds.
Fact: The item gets contaminated almost immediately, so proceed at your own peril.

Myth: Swallowed chewing gum will remain in your gut for seven years.
Fact: Although the sticky substance isn’t digestible, it should pass like any other food.

Myth: Eating before bedtime is bad for you.
Fact: It’s more about what you eat, how much, and how close to bed rather than the act itself.

Call them what you will: myths, rumors, superstitions, or old wives’ tales. The common denominator is that they started as beliefs and then transformed over the years into generally accepted facts. However, don’t hold on to half-truths when it comes to your health—always ask your doctor if you are unsure about whether something from the medical rumor mill is actually authentic.