Myth Busting in Medicine: Myth or Fact?

Myth Busting in Medicine: Myth or Fact? We’ve all heard them—those wild medical claims that spread like wildfire. From grandma’s home remedies to questionable internet advice (usually from social media-I have also been a victim), medical myths are everywhere! But how do you know what’s true and what’s just fiction? Below are some common medical myths that surprised me!

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1) "Cracking your knuckles will give you arthritis."

You’ve probably been warned not to crack your knuckles for fear of developing arthritis. Personally, I have been told this by multiple people! Good news! Research shows that knuckle cracking is not linked to arthritis. For example, a doctor actually cracked the knuckles of only one hand for 60 years as a personal experiment. No arthritis on either hand! The sound actually comes from the popping of gas bubbles in the joint fluid, not bone damage.

2) "You should drink 8 glasses of water a day."

While staying hydrated is important, the “8 glasses” rule isn’t exactly one-size-fits-all. Hydration needs vary based on your activity level, climate, and even diet. If you are a very active person, then it is more than probable that you drink more than 8 glasses of water - it makes sense, doesn't it? I have a friend who drinks about 4 cups of water or less and she's perfectly healthy! Now, I don't mean to spread unhealthy habits or encourage you to become dehydrated; I just mean that every person's body has different requirements for water intake.

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3) "Cold weather makes you sick."

Despite what our parents may have told us, cold weather itself doesn’t cause illness. Viruses do! However, people tend to stay indoors more in colder months, increasing the chances of catching a virus from someone else. Therefore, next winter, bundle up for warmth, not because you think it’ll chase away potential colds!

4) "You can catch up on sleep over the weekend."

Unfortunately, sleep doesn’t work like that—you can’t just repay your “sleep debt” by sleeping extra on weekends. In fact, disrupting your sleep schedule can make you feel foggier. Regular, consistent sleep is what helps keep your brain and body healthy.

You should aim for a steady 7-9 hours of sleep every night for peak health.

5) "Breast Cancer Is Caused by Antiperspirants"

Calm down! According to some scientists, your underarms can absorb the chemicals in deodorants and antiperspirants. The theory is that they accumulate in breast tissue and increase the risk of cancers. However, according to the National Cancer Institute, there is no proof linking either product to breast cancer. The National Cancer Institute is a trusted website and organization, therefore if they say there is no danger, then we should put some trust in them. It's not the time to boycott deodorant just yet - no one wants to smell your underarms! Sorry!

image taken from wix.com

6) "Microwaving your food is bad for you because it kills nutrients"

Food is heated and cooked in microwave ovens by creating electromagnetic radiation, which stimulates the food's molecules. Microwave cooking times are shorter and use lower temperatures, so there is less loss of nutrients even if there is no scientific proof that microwaving food lowers nutrient levels. Microwave-safe containers should be covered with as little water as possible to maintain nutrients. Overcooking should be avoided, and steam should be avoided when opening the container. I will personally continue to use my microwave but you do you!

Medical myths are everywhere, but it’s important to separate fact from fiction! The next time someone tells you one of these “facts,” you’ll know to do your own research using trusted medical websites!