19 Common Medical Myths We Have Been Believing Since Too Long

People tend to believe medical myths and abide by them more religiously than any other for the fear of illness and anticipation of good health. Some of these myths have now continued for generation and it’s high time we discover the truths behind these ridiculous myths which we have adhered to firmly for so many years.

1. Human beings use only 10% of their brains

The myth that humans use only 10% of their brains is the most prevalent one and despite efforts to debunk this myth, people still hold it to be true. However, we use every part of our brain and it is mostly always active.

2. Drinking 8 glasses of water every day

Well, against this popular belief is the truth that one has to basically consume 8 ounces or 2-2.5 liters of water everyday through food and fluids.

3. Sitting close to TV or reading in the dark can ruin the eyesight

Sitting too close to TV or book can be a due to nearsightedness but that doesn’t itself can ruin the eyesight.

4. Shaved hair regrow back darker, coarser, thicker

Long has this myth been held by mothers who want to dissuade their daughters from shaving body hair. However, shaving hair produces a blunt tip which makes it feel stiffer and coarser in the initial period. However, scientifically saying, hair regrowth is not affected by any means of hair removal.

Also read: 17 Unbelievable Facts About Beards That Every Man Should Know

5. Supplements are always good for health

Though when taken in moderation, they’re good for health. Excessive consumption of vitamins can result in toxic side effects including cancer.

6. Pregnancy cannot occur during periods

The sperms survive in the body for up to a week, so women can get pregnant soon after their periods or during the periods.

7. Chewing gum when ingested stays in the stomach for 7 whole years

Just as the fibers are eliminated by the body despite being indigestible, so are chewing gums!

8. Cold weather can cause one to fall sick

People dwelling in warmer surroundings are as much vulnerable to cold as people dwelling in colder weather conditions. The only things is that germs spread faster in cold, dry conditions.

9. Spicy food cause ulcers

No, spicy food does not cause ulcer but over the counter obtained pain-killers like ibuprofen and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs do! Also, the bacteria H. Pylori (Helicobacter pylori) is responsible for stomach ulcers, spread by consumption of contaminated food and water.

10. We have different taste zones in our tongue

Though the tongue has approximately 8000 taste buds, each area of the tongue can perceive 5 different types of taste.

11. Fried food and chocolate are responsible for acne

Hormones, heredity, and stress could be responsible for acne and excess secretion of sebum from sebaceous glands.

12. Knuckle cracking will lead to arthritis

A habitual knuckle cracker might suffer from weaker joints but not arthritis in later life. Arthritis is caused by another medical condition called gout.

13. Eating at night can add to your weight

Well, as long as one eats as much as the calories one burns, being sneaky at night for food will not add to one’s weight.

14. Pregnancy lasts 9 months

Since pregnancy is often counted from the date of the last menstrual cycle it is said to last 40 weeks, however, the gap between conceiving and delivery is of 38 weeks only.

15. Probiotics prevent cold

Probiotics certainly alleviate severe symptoms but do not prevent cold. When consumed for a long period, probiotics help to build the immunity system stronger.

16. Bed rest heals back pain

Complete bed rest doesn’t help in total recovery from back pain but mind indulgence in physical activities along with some bed rest helps in faster recovery.

17. Swimming after food can cause cramps

Swimming after food consumption can cause uneasiness but doesn’t lead to cramps. However, light snacks hardly make a difference.

18. Vaccines can cause flu and autism

Vaccines contain dead viruses that cannot activate the flu and the autism study from which this myth gained momentum is flawed.

19. Nails and hair continue to grow after death

While it might be exciting for medical enthusiasts to believe so, the real reason behind the myth is that post-death the skin shrinks which causes the nail and hair to look more prominent.

Never believe everything you hear.