Health myths are everywhere, often spread through word-of-mouth, social media, or well-meaning advice from friends and family. While some of these beliefs may seem convincing, they can sometimes be misleading or even harmful. Let’s explore some of the most common health myths and reveal the facts behind them.
You Must Drink 8 Glasses of Water Daily
Many think the secret to hydration is drinking eight glasses of water a day. Yes, you need to stay hydrated, but the exact amount is individual. Your age, activity level and climate all can affect how much water you need. Many foods — fruits and vegetables, for example — also count toward your fluid intake. Instead of being bound by a rigid rule, respond to your body’s cues and drink when you feel thirsty.
Eating Late at Night Leads to Weight Gain
Many people erroneously believe that eating at night always results in weight gain. Weight gain takes place when you eat excess calories relative to your body’s needs, regardless of the hour of the day. What matters is your daily calorie consumption as a whole. Big meals shortly before bed are not conducive to good digestion or sleep — and might, indirectly, impact weight. Concentrate on a balanced healthy diet instead of when you eat.
Detox Diets Are Necessary to Cleanse the Body
Detox diets purport to cleanse your body of harmful toxins, but the reality is that your liver and kidneys do that job for you pretty well. These organs already filter waste and do not require assistance from extreme diets or fasting. Detox regimens like juice cleanses can cause nutrient deficiencies and other health issues. All you need to support your body’s natural detoxification process is a well-rounded diet heavy on whole foods.
All Fats Are Bad for You
While fat is demonized in popular diets, not all types of fats are bad. It’s true that trans fats and excessive saturated fats can lead to heart disease, but unsaturated fats — which are found in foods such as avocados, nuts and olive oil — are good for your health. These healthy fats promote brain health, boost heart health, and assist your body in absorbing essential vitamins. Healthy fats are good for you, and unhealthy ones are not — fill your diet with the former, and limit the latter.
Vaccines Cause Autism
One of the most dangerous myths in the past few decades, is the idea that vaccines are connected to autism. This notion was derived post a deeply flawed and fraudulent study that was published in 1998 which stood to be entirely discredited. Many studies and scientific reviews have demonstrated that vaccines are safe and do not cause autism. Vaccines avert serious diseases, saving millions of lives every year worldwide, and they are a pillar of public health.
You Can Lose Fat in Specific Areas
The idea of “spot reduction” — that targeting certain parts of your body with exercises can cause fat loss in those places — is a myth. Fat loss isn’t’ localized, it happens all over your body, based on total number of calories burned, not targeted moves. Although some exercises can help shape and strengthen the muscles in specific areas, you cannot spot reduce fat. The best method to burn body fat is good eating with regular exercise.
Cutting carbs means you’ll lose weight.
Carbohydrates are demonized in many diet circles, but they are an essential part of a healthy diet. Whole grains, fruits and vegetables are rich in fiber, vitamins and minerals. They are all complex carbs that supply long-lasting energy and fuel bodily functions. The type of carbs that can cause weight gain, as well as health issues, are refined carbs and sugary foods, not the healthy carbohydrates derived from whole foods. Moderation and balance is the key.
Conclusion
Health Myths: 10Wellness MythsBeliefs about your health are common, but becoming informed is the best way to make health decisions. However, there are lots of misconceptions about of health that need to be unlearned, so that one can make better choices and take care of the body. Remember, always trust evidence-based information and when in doubt, consult with healthcare professionals. Wellness is all about balance, not extremes.