Busted: 12 Health Myths that Need to Be Put to Rest

In a world where misinformation spreads like wildfire, it’s crucial to separate fact from fiction when it comes to our well-being. 

According to a recent survey by GoodRx, over 70% of Americans have been exposed to medical or health-related misinformation, with almost half of those exposed lacking confidence in their ability to distinguish between true health information and misinformation¹.

With that said, learn the truth about 12 persistent old wives’ tales about health that are proven myths.

1. An Apple a Day Keeps the Doctor Away

While apples are packed with fiber, vitamins, and nutrients, they’re not a magical cure-all. Eating an apple a day won’t necessarily keep you out of the doctor’s office, but it can be part of a healthy diet. 

Studies have found that daily apple eaters did appear to use fewer prescription medications, so there may be some truth to this adage. (ref) Still, it’s important to remember that a balanced diet, regular exercise, and preventive care are the keys to maintaining good health.

2. Feed a Cold, Starve a Fever

This old wives’ tale has a kernel of truth, but it’s not entirely accurate. When you’re sick with a cold or the flu, your body needs energy from food to fight off the infection. Eating nutritious foods like chicken soup can help support your immune system. 

On the other hand, having a fever can suppress your appetite, making it easier to “starve” the fever. The most important thing is to stay hydrated and listen to your body’s cues.

3. Cracking Your Knuckles Causes Arthritis

Rest assured, knuckle-crackers – this myth has been debunked by science. Multiple studies have found no significant association between knuckle cracking and arthritis. (ref) The popping sound you hear is simply the result of gas bubbles being released from the joints. 

While excessive or forceful knuckle cracking may cause temporary discomfort or swelling, it does not lead to chronic joint conditions. So, crack away (in moderation), guilt-free!

4. Sitting Too Close to the TV Will Make You Go Blind

Sorry, mom, but there’s no truth behind this tale. Sitting close to the TV will not damage your eyesight. If anything, it might cause temporary eyestrain, a common condition that happens when your eyes get tired from overuse. 

Factors such as genetics, nutrition, and overall health play a more significant role in determining an individual’s vision. So, feel free to cozy up to your favorite shows, but remember to take breaks and give your eyes a rest.

5. Egg Yolks Are Bad for Your Health

While egg yolks do contain cholesterol, it is now understood that dietary cholesterol has a minimal impact on blood cholesterol levels for most individuals. 

The American Heart Association states that saturated and trans fats in our diet have a greater impact on blood cholesterol than dietary cholesterol. (ref)

Eggs, including the yolks, are a rich source of protein and contain essential nutrients like vitamins A, D, E, and K, as well as omega-3 fatty acids. Moderate egg consumption can be part of a healthy diet for most people.

6. Coffee Stunts Your Growth

There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that coffee can stunt your growth. While coffee contains caffeine, a stimulant that can temporarily increase heart rate and blood pressure, it does not have any direct impact on bone growth or height. 

Genetics, nutrition, and overall health play a more significant role in determining an individual’s growth and development. Still it is important to emphasize moderation, especially in adolescents, as excessive caffeine consumption may have negative effects on sleep patterns and behavior.

7. Swallowed Gum Stays in Your System for Seven Years

Nope, so much nope. It’s true that your body can’t break down gum during the digestion process, but it will likely pass through your system a few days after you swallow it. 

The idea that gum remains in your stomach for seven years is a myth. It’s still best to avoid swallowing gum, as it can cause temporary discomfort or, in rare cases, lead to intestinal blockages, especially in young children.

8. Going Outside with Wet Hair Will Make You Sick

Contrary to popular belief, cold, wet weather does not directly cause a cold. The common cold is caused by viruses, specifically rhinoviruses, and not by the temperature or dampness of the environment. 

But, there might be some indirect factors at play. During colder months, people tend to spend more time indoors near others, which increases the likelihood of coming into contact with the virus. 

9. Eating Chocolate Gives You Acne

This myth has been around for decades, but the link between chocolate and acne is not as clear-cut as you might think. Some studies have found that chocolate is one of the foods associated with acne in adolescents and young adults, but “association doesn’t mean causation.” (ref) It could be that a diet rich in chocolate may be lacking other important food groups. 

The question to be asked is, “What dietary changes are needed overall?” A balanced diet focusing on protein, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and whole grains, with limits on sweets and processed foods, is more helpful than obsessing over chocolate alone.

10. You Need to Drink Eight Glasses of Water a Day

While staying hydrated is essential for overall health, the “8×8” rule (drinking eight 8-ounce glasses of water per day) is not backed by scientific evidence. The amount of water you need depends on various factors, such as your age, sex, activity level, and climate. 

The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine suggest that an adequate daily fluid intake is about 15.5 cups (3.7 liters) for men and about 11.5 cups (2.7 liters) for women. (ref) But this includes fluids from water, other beverages, and food. 

Listening to your body’s thirst cues and drinking when you feel thirsty is generally sufficient for most healthy individuals.

11. Hair & Nails Continue to Grow after Death

This myth has been perpetuated by countless horror movies and spooky stories, but it’s not entirely accurate. While it may appear that hair and nails continue to grow after death, this is an optical illusion. 

In reality, the skin around the hair and nails retracts as the body dehydrates, making them look more prominent. The hair and nails themselves do not actually grow after death. So, you can put this myth to rest (pun intended) and focus on more important things, like living your best life.

12. Shaving Makes Hair Grow Back Thicker & Darker

This old wives’ tale has been causing unnecessary anxiety for generations, but it’s time to set the record straight. Shaving does not affect the thickness or color of hair growth. Hair may appear thicker or darker after shaving because the blunt, squared-off tip of freshly cut hair is more noticeable than the fine, tapered end of uncut hair. 

This fallacy, like the appearance of cut hairs, is just an illusion. So, whether you choose to embrace your natural hair or shave it off, know that your decision won’t impact its future growth.

Trust Science, Not Superstition

In a world filled with health myths and misinformation, it’s crucial to rely on evidence-based information and consult with healthcare professionals when making decisions about your well-being.

When it comes to your well-being, it’s always best to trust science over superstition.

Source: 

1. https://www.goodrx.com/healthcare-access/research/medical-misinformation-survey