Have you ever thought about why you eat or avoid certain foods, or practice some unusual health routines that seem silly? All of this - in the name of good health. A majority of these don’t seem to make much sense, yet you might still follow them. Why?

Below are some of the health myths that you may have heard of, or may have even seen it work out for other people. In this blog, we’re going to debunk some of these health myths to give you a clear understanding. 

Health Myths #1: Fat is bad

The word ‘fat’ itself has an unpleasant connotation. You’ll experience this specifically when you’re grocery shopping, with labels like low-fat, non-fat, and fat-free. This brings us to one of the most common health myths - fat is bad. And fat in your body? Bad, bad, BAD!

Health Myths#1 - DEBUNKED: Not all fats are bad. You see, your body uses fat for energy, cushioning, warmth, among other essential bodily functions. Moreover, dietary fat is necessary for your body to absorb certain fat-soluble vitamins like Vitamins A, D, E and K-9.315. In fact, a study found that low-fat dietary regimens don’t bring significant changes in risks for heart disease, breast cancer, or colorectal cancer. It also explained that instead of drastically cutting down fat intake, it’s better to focus on the type of fat. Avoid limited saturated fats and trans fats when you can.

Health Myths #2: You should drink 8 glasses of water a day

While drinking water is undeniably healthy, drinking 8 glasses of water a day doesn’t necessarily guarantee a strong immune system. This is one of many preconceived health myths that has resulted in more bloated bellies than healthier skin.

Health Myths #2 - DEBUNKED: Healthy people meet their fluid needs by doing two simple things: (i) drinking water when thirsty, (ii) drinking water with meals. It’s important to note that your body needs excess water specifically when:

• Living in hot climatic conditions
• Being physically active
• You have a high fever
• Have diarrhea or vomiting

Remember: For your body’s fluid needs, you can also get them through foods like soup, watermelon, cucumber, etc.

Health Myths #3: Antiperspirants and deodorants can cause cancer

We all understand that antiperspirants and deodorants are a necessary part of our daily hygiene routines though, some believe that these products can cause cancer. Allegedly, they contain harmful, cancer-causing substances - like parabens and aluminum - which are absorbed by the skin under your arms. In addition, people also believe that they end up in breast tissue and can increase the chance of getting tumors.

Health Myths #3 - DEBUNKED: There is no concrete scientific evidence that links these products with cancer. Furthermore, you can undoubtedly dispel the notion that parabens can affect estrogen levels, thus leading to cancer.

Health Myths #4: Sugar makes kids hyperactive

Kids, in general, are hyperactive, however, there is a widely preconceived health myth that sugar is a kid’s rocket fuel. Chocolate, gummies, lollipops equals your kids bouncing off the wall – but is this true? 

Health Myths #4 - DEBUNKED: According to Webmd, multiple studies have indicated that there may be no link to your child’s sugar intake and their hyperactivity. Some factors associated with hyperactivity include, temperament, emotional disturbance, learning disorders such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and sleep problems. In essence, it is highly unlikely that sugar is causing hyperactivity in children.

Health Myths #5: You should take antioxidant pills for a longer life

According to Medical News Today, “Antioxidants are substances that can prevent or slow damage to cells caused by free radicals”. Your body produces these unstable molecules as a reaction to environmental and other pressures. Since it’s clear that antioxidants are the good guys, stuffing our bodies with more of these should make sense, right?

Plant-based food, also referred to as “superfood”, is the best source of antioxidants which is especially found in fruits and vegetables. You see, antioxidants, including vitamins A, C and E, are plentiful in vegetables and fruits. Since they protect against cell or DNA damage, they’ve been touted for preventing cancer, heart diseases, and even dementia. But do you really need additional antioxidant supplements?

Health Myths #5 - DEBUNKED: As a matter of fact, a study found that antioxidant supplements make little difference in lifespan. Generally, your diet alone should suffice for your bodily antioxidant requirement. If you believe that you need some antioxidant supplement, you should consult your doctor.

Health Myths #6: Starving yourself is good for weight loss

Have you ever had so much food that your belly felt ten times bigger than it was? It gets to the point where you gradually become conscious about your weight, and begin starving yourself to lose it. Of course, starvation equals weight loss, right?

Wrong.

That happens in cartoons. To say the least, starvation does not result in healthy weight loss. It just adds on to more health problems.

Health Myths #6 - DEBUNKED: A study found that starving yourself does not help you lose weight in the long run. In fact, some of the best ways to lose weight include cutting back on sugar, refined grains and highly processed food. Furthermore, it also points out that people should focus on the foundational diet, which include more vegetables and whole foods.

Conclusion

When these health myths don’t pan out, people often grow anxious. While we have debunked some of these health myths for you, you can always contact your doctor to ease your mind.

Are you still confused about the intricacies of medical services and developing your medical plans? Need to set an appointment with a doctor? Then do not hesitate to reach out to us at Embrace HealthNet!

An initiative of Norvic International Hospital, Embrace HealthNet is advancing in the field of healthcare in Nepal. We understand the importance of self-care education, informing you and your family of the most effective ways to understand health in Nepal. Embrace HealthNet is designed to give you and your loved ones peace of mind when it comes to your medical needs. We consider our relationship with you to be a partnership for good health.

Embrace HealthNet - We share your care.