Even though lots of health advice from our elders and parents seem to be true, not all of them are actually based on real scientific evidence. Here are some 'myths' about health that are actually less likely to be true:
1. Spicy Foods Cause Ulcers
This myth is not entirely wrong nor true. Almost two-thirds of all peptic ulcer cases are caused by helicobacter pylori. Taking anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin, or smoking tobacco and drinking alcohol can also increase the risk of ulcers. Spicy foods can only worsen the effects of existing ulcers.
2. Children with Asthma Shouldn't Exercise
Physical activity always increases breathing rate, this is why parents and doctors are advised not to let kids with asthma exercise. But not all sports can potentially trigger an ashtma attack. Aerobic, can actually improve the lung power of a person with asthma. Studies show that when people with asthma exercise, they have fewer attacks, take less medication and being present more at school. While activity that is more intense such as running, should be avoided, there are many sports that are less likely to trigger EIA (Excercise-Induced Ashtma) like walking, cycling, swimming, baseball, softball, volleyball, or tennis.
3. Vegetarians Don't Get Sufficient Protein in Their Diet
This is not true. Vegetarians can get sufficient protein by eating a wide variety of foods, including vegetables, dried peas, beans, chickpeas, kidney beans, whole grains, nuts, seeds and soy products. Whether you're a vegetarian or vegan, you may consult a nutritionist for an eating plan that ensures you're getting enough calcium, iron, vitamins B12 and D.
4. Chocolate and Fried Foods Cause Acne
Pimples form when oil glands under the skin produce too much of a waxy oil called sebum, which the body uses to keep skin lubricated. But when excessive sebum and dead skin cells block pores, that area of the skin gets irritated, swollen, and turns red. Sebacouse glands produce excessive sebum because of hormones. That explains why teenagers are affected more than others. Stress and heredity may also be factors, but chocolate bars and fried foods are off the hook.
5. Cracking Your Knuckles Will Cause Arthritis
This myth is not entirely true. Cracking your knuckles may make your joints sore but there's no evidence that this acitivity directly causes arthritis, a disorder characterized by sore and swollen joints. If you crack your knuckles all the time, the most possible thing that could happen is you could injure the cartilage and cause the joints to swell. If you actually do it too often, it eventually may lead to degenerative joint disease, such as arthritis.
Source:
http://www.bbc.com/future/story/20130722-does-sugar-make-kids-hyperactive
http://www.womenshealthmag.com/nutrition/foods-high-in-fiber
http://www.calorieking.com/learnabouts/Do-Carbohydrates-Make-You-Fat_OTgx.html
http://www.everydayhealth.com/diet-nutrition/10-myths-and-facts-about-water.aspx
http://www.healthline.com/health-slideshow/does-cold-weather-make-you-sick