20 health myths people still believe
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Loading... - Gwen Hebert
- 12 Jul 2022
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When it comes to health, myths have a habit of sticking around even after various researchers, scientists and experts have proven, time and time again, that they are unfounded. In the following paragraphs, we’ll bust 20 of those long-standing myths.
You should wait at least an hour after eating before going swimming, otherwise you’ll get a cramp.
This urban legend dates from the start of the last century. At the time, it was believed that a cramp suffered while in the water was caused by the stomach requiring a large quantity of oxygenated blood for digestion. In reality, the risk of suffering a cramp if you swim after eating is quite low.
Organic food doesn’t contain pesticides
Even the most diligent of farmers is unable to guarantee that their produce won’t contain any pesticides. Wind and water can certainly contaminate organic foods with pesticides. What's more, while some farmers use organic pesticides instead, they can be even more toxic than their synthetic counterparts.
Arthritis is a disease that only affects the elderly
Two-thirds of those who suffer from arthritis are actually under the age of 65. There are over 100 forms of arthritis that affect people of all ages. Affecting around three in every 1,000 children, juvenile arthritis, for example, is one of the most common diseases among children.
Sugar causes hyperactivity in children
No scientific proof exists establishing a relationship between sugar consumption and hyperactivity.
However, that doesn’t mean that sugar is completely harmless for children. Various studies have shown a link between the consumption of sugary drinks in children and weight gain.
Being cold gives you a cold
In winter, it’s not the cold itself that causes seasonal sniffles but rather our behaviour. In the colder months, we spend much more time inside where air is recycled and where we are more likely to find ourselves in close proximity to infected individuals, facilitating the spread of viruses that cause colds.
That said, it's also not a good idea to spend lots of time out in sub-zero conditions, which may put you at risk of frostbite. Read More…
