The Biggest Health Myths!

Disorders Cure

oi-Staff

By Staff

Wednesday, June 10, 2009, 12:51

There are some health advises that fall into our ears on a day today basis. Interestingly, when you think twice, these are some health myths that have been followed for generations. Now, scientists have debunked the biggest 10 health myths that have existed until now! Read along

Eating carbohydrates can make you fat: Starchy foods can be fattening only when actual fat, such as cream or margarine, is added. Carbs contain less than half the calories of fat and tend to be more filling - making you less likely to overeat.

You need to drink eight glasses of water a day: Most people only need 750ml to one litre and can get this from juice, tea, coffee... or beer. Excessive amounts of water can actually be dangerous, even fatal.

The flu jab can give you flu: The flu jab isn't a live vaccine so it can't infect you with the virus. People make this mistake because the jab is usually given in autumn -peak time for cold viruses and if they go on to get a minor cold they misinterpret it as flu.

I'm fat because I have slow metabolism: This is a myth! Fat people have faster metabolisms and burn off more calories as energy than slimmer people.

Pregnant women should eat for two: Two out of five women admit to believing this myth. But they only need an extra 200 calories a day - equal to two slices of bread - and even then, only in the last three months.

Vitamins make you live longer: Popping ''antioxidant'' vitamins such as C, A and E won't extend your life, concluded one study last year. They may even lead to a premature death.

Chocolate gives you spots: The effects of hormones on sebaceous oil glands in the skin cause Acne. This is why it particularly affects teenagers and can also be increased by stress. So chocolate won't make a difference.

Sugar makes kids hyperactive: Sugar does not cause hyperactive behaviour. Parents think their child have had a sugary drink they rate behaviour as hyperactive - so it may be all in the mind.

Sit-ups shift a potbelly: Even 100 sit-ups a day will do nothing to get rid of the layer of fat on your tummy. Only cardiovascular exercise - the type that gets you out of breath - can shift body fat.

When you sneeze, your heart stops: When you sneeze the pressure in your chest increases as you inhale and drops when you exhale, so your heart rate is affected, but it keeps beating. Yet a survey by esure found two million motorists have had an accident, near miss or lost control as a result of sneezing while at the wheel.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.