MYTH BUSTERS: 6 Health Myths You Probably Believe

We’ve all heard them before: those pesky little health myths that we tend to believe without questioning. Well, today’s the day to put an end to all that! Here are six of the most common health myths, debunked once and for all. Ready? Let’s get started!

1. Myth: You should drink eight glasses of water a day.

Wrong! The amount of water you need to drink depends on a variety of factors, including your activity level, the climate you live in, and your overall health. So instead of following this one-size-fits-all rule, pay attention to your body’s own thirst cues.

2. Myth: Eating fat makes you fat.

Nope! In fact, healthy fats are an essential part of a balanced diet. They help support brain health, boost immunity, and promote satiety (aka they help keep you fuller for longer). Just be sure to choose wisely when it comes to the type of fat you’re eating – think monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, like those found in olive oil, nuts, and fish.

3. Myth: You should avoid carbs if you’re trying to lose weight.

Not necessarily! Complex carbs (the ones that are high in fiber and low on the glycemic index) can actually help with weight loss by keeping you feeling fuller for longer. Plus, they provide essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. So instead of cutting all carbs out of your diet, focus on eating more of the good stuff (think: whole grains, fruits, and veggies) and less of the bad (refined flour products and sugary snacks).

4. Myth: Cracking your knuckles will give you arthritis.

This one’s been around forever, but it’s just not true. There’s no evidence that cracking your knuckles causes arthritis – so go ahead and crack away!

5. Myth: You need to detox after a night of drinking.

False! Your liver is perfectly capable of detoxing your body on its own – no juice cleanse required. In fact, forcing your body to do more work than it needs to can actually do more harm than good. So the next time you’re feeling rough after a night out, reach for some water and give your liver a break.

6. Myth: You should avoid sun exposure to prevent skin cancer.

Actually, moderate sun exposure is essential for vitamin D production – and vitamin D is important for bone health, immunity, and more. Just be sure to use sunscreen (with an SPF of at least 15) to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.