By Tori Stadolnik
Contributing Writer
Will vitamin C really help you with that nasty cold? Are vaccines really bad for you? There are many myths, old and new , circulating about our health. But what’s fact, and what’s complete hype? Wives tales and click-bait articles beware — Let’s see what popular health “knowledge” is left standing at the end of this article.
Cold season is upon us, but don’t go buying Emergen-C and orange juice just yet. Although vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is an essential part of a healthy diet, it won’t stave off that winter cold. It also won’t fight a cold that you already have. Drink plenty of fluids, get some rest, and try some over-the-counter cold medicine.
Your parents were right about this though — Chicken soup really can help your cold symptoms. While it won’t cure a cold, it can reduce inflammation and discomfort while speeding up the ejection of mucus.
Also, antibiotics will not work for a cold (it’s a virus). Speaking of antibiotics…
Don’t worry about backup protection when taking antibiotics with the pill, the patch, or the vaginal ring. There is no evidence to support the notion that most antibiotics affect your contraception. You only need to use a backup with 2 specific antibiotics: rifampicin and rifabutin. If you’re ever uneasy, there is no harm in using backup protection such as condoms, which also help protect from STIs and HIV.
Are vaccines bad for you?
No.
Fats are bad for you, and so are carbs
False. Fats and carbs are all part of a healthy, balanced diet. Fad diets that try and eliminate one or the other to promise rapid weight loss are unhealthy and fairly unsustainable.
Healthy fats (including extra virgin olive oil, avocado, fats in nuts, and fatty fish) are fuel for lipid-rich brain tissue, the backbone of important hormones, and necessary for the absorption of vitamins A, D, E and K. Carbohydrates are a very important source of energy, vitamins, and minerals.
Looking at your phone before bed causes disturbed sleep
Sorry, but this is true. We all do it, but we know we shouldn’t. The screen of your phone, tablet, or laptop gives off high-frequency blue light that makes it harder for your brain to rest. Try a book or other relaxing activity before going to sleep instead.
Does cracking your knuckles causes arthritis?
When you crack your knuckles, that cracking sound is actually gas bubbles in your joints popping. There is no link between cracking knuckles and arthritis.
Does hydrogen peroxide cleanse wounds?
Yes, but it may be harming your tissues as well. Hydrogen peroxide actually slows the healing process by inhibiting fibroblasts, cells that are essential for repairing damaged skin. Wash a scrape or cut gently with soap and water, and apply a topical antibiotic. But don’t throw away your bottle of peroxide, it removes blood stains like magic.
Additionally, the notion itself of detoxing your body is a myth, and most juicers leave out the fiber of the fruits and veggies that’s good for your digestive tract and helps keep you full.
A juice cleanse will not rid your body of toxins, but will cause you to be intensely hungry for a few days. Pre-packaged juices like Naked and Odwalla have added sugars and artificial ingredients (Yes, even the green ones), and are not meal substitutes. Instead of a juice cleanse, try drinking lots of water and eating fresh fruits and veggies.
