You've probably heard these six old wives' tales. Here's why you should think twice before following them.
THE OLD WIVES’ TALE: “Knuckle cracking causes arthritis.”
THE TRUTH: Popping and cracking your joints may be annoying to those who have to hear it, but is it actually harmful? According to research, there is no link between knuckle cracking and osteoarthritis. Though we don’t really know why joints make snapping and popping sounds, research suggests that as long as cracking isn’t painful, it likely isn’t causing damage. But when cracking your joints is painful, it could point to an underlying injury, inflammation, or structural abnormality. This includes conditions such as bursitis and tendinitis.
THE OLD WIVES’ TALE: “Feed a cold, starve a fever.”
THE TRUTH: ‘Starving’ a fever by consuming fewer calories will actually make it more difficult for your body to fight the virus. Medical historians believe this saying dates back to 1574 when fasting was believed to cure fevers. The thinking was that by not eating, energy normally used for digestion could be diverted to fight the fever. Today, research has shown that the body needs a significant amount of energy to fight an infection. Adequate nutrition is the only way to give your body access to the energy it needs.
THE OLD WIVES’ TALE: “Gum stays in your stomach for seven years.”
THE TRUTH: No, the wad of HubbaBubba you swallowed on your first day of middle school isn’t hanging around until your high school graduation. As with many other non-food items that are accidentally swallowed — including marbles, dimes, and teeth — gum should pass within a few days. Once ingested, gum is carried through the intestinal tract by fluids. Though harder items can sometimes end up stuck, causing a stomach ache, gum is unlikely to cause any pain.
THE OLD WIVES’ TALE: “Chocolate causes acne.”
THE TRUTH: Good news, chocaholics! No studies have found a conclusive link between chocolate and what is known scientifically as acne vulgaris. The bad news is that we don’t know what causes acne, though a variety of factors — including genetics, diet, hormones, environmental pollutants, and stress do contribute to breakouts.
With that said, some individuals believe that certain foods, including chocolate, trigger acne. But even in these cases, it’s difficult to conclude that chocolate is the cause. Why? Chances are there are other factors involved. For instance, if you tend to eat chocolate when you feel stressed, and then you break out, it’s hard to say which was responsible.
THE OLD WIVES’ TALE: “An apple a day keeps the doctor away.
THE TRUTH: Apples are fine, but blueberries are better. This superfood is rich in both fiber and antioxidants, and tossing a handful into your cereal in the morning is a great way to ensure you’re getting enough fruit. With that said, eating a wide variety of both fruits and vegetables is one of the best ways to prevent chronic illnesses, including diabetes, heart disease, and high cholesterol.
THE OLD WIVES’ TALE: “Caffeine will stunt your growth.”
THE TRUTH: There is no scientific evidence to suggest that caffeine can stunt a child’s growth. However, that doesn’t mean that caffeine is good — or safe — for kids. Caffeine can trigger insomnia, jitters, and elevations in blood pressure, depending on the amount consuming. Drinking too much has also been linked to reduced fertility, while withdrawal can cause unpleasant symptoms such as headaches.
[Image via Getty]