These health myths may shock you

How much 'guaranteed' health advice have you heard and blindly accepted as truth? Some myths have been circulating among us for decades or even hundreds of years.

Source:  iStockphoto - Renata Hamuda

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02.05.2025  |  K. Keller

The body needs 8 glasses of water a day

Thirst is a reliable indicator. Food supplies 20-30% of daily water intake, which many people don't know.

Source:  Pexels - Pixabay

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Sugar causes childhood hyperactivity

Studies show that sugar does not affect children's behaviour. Parents' expectations shape perceptions more than reality.

Source: Shutterstock - fizkes

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Antibiotics also kill viruses

Antibiotics only work on bacteria, not viruses. Treating viruses with antibiotics promotes bacterial resistance.

Source: Shutterstock - New Africa

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Sweating = burning fat?

A winter walk can burn more calories than a summer run. Sweat is not fat! The length and intensity of the exercise determines the burn.

Source: Shutterstock - wing-wing

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Chewing gum will kick-start digestion

Chewing gum with xylitol reduces the incidence of tooth decay by up to 60%. A healthy diet is better for aiding digestion.

Source: Shutterstock - Pixel-Shot

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Grey hair causes stress

Genetics plays a major role, stress can accelerate the greying process, but not all grey is due to stress.

Source: Shutterstock - Kostikova Natalia

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Cardiovascular disease = a problem for the old

Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death even among the young. Up to 80% can be prevented by a healthy lifestyle.

Source: Shutterstock - U.P.SD

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Vitamin C prevents colds

Vitamin C is one of the most important antioxidants! Regular use can reduce the length of a cold by 8-14%.

Source: Shutterstock - New Africa

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Pregnant women must not exercise

Exercise reduces the risk of gestational diabetes by 30-50% and helps maintain a healthy weight. Swimming, yoga or walking are great.

Source: Shutterstock - Inside Creative House

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Crunching joints causes arthritis

Crunching joints does not cause arthritis. The sound is caused by the release of gases in the joint fluid. The study didn't prove a link.

Source: Shutterstock - Andrey_Popov

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