While caring for our health is one of the most important things we can be doing, it can be difficult to what is true or false sometimes! Some things that are seen as ‘common knowledge’ may not actually be true. Read on to debunk five common health misconceptions!
Misconception #1: “You need eight glasses of water per day”
We all know that hydrating is important! Most of us have heard that we should be drinking eight glasses or more glasses of water per day. However, this may not be true for everybody. According to the Commonwealth Care Alliance, most people only need between four and six glasses daily, especially if you’re getting water intake from eating vegetables and fruits. Some people may need more water if they have certain illnesses, are pregnant, or are working for long hours in the heat. The important thing is to be drinking water regularly and to talk to your Primary Care Provider about what is best for you!
Misconception #2: “Carbs are bad for you”
This depends on the specific type of carbohydrates. Carbs found in fruits, grains, beans, and whole grains are important in providing your body with energy! However, the carbohydrates found in processed foods like white bread, chips, and various sweets are linked to negative health outcomes, according to the Commonwealth Care Alliance.
Misconception #3: The “five second rule”
We have all either heard or used the ‘rule’ that if you drop a piece of food and pick it up within five seconds that it is still clean, right? In reality, food is dirty the moment it hits the floor! Avoid eating food that has been on the floor, because it could potentially make you sick (Mount Elizabeth).
Misconception #4: “Chocolate will give you acne”
While sugar consumption can have negative health effects, a little bit of chocolate isn’t necessarily going to make you break out. Studies on this claim are contradictory or inconclusive, and triggers for skin outbreaks are unique to each individual. The important thing is to have a generally healthy diet, as this is great not only for your skin but for your health in general (Mount Elizabeth).
Misconception #5: “You should always peel your fruits and veggies”
This is a myth! While it is important to wash your fruits and veggies before you eat them, there is no need to peel them. On the contrary, by peeling your fruits and veggies, you are actually missing out on a lot of important nutrients such as vitamin C and fiber (Mount Elizabeth)!
Did any of these debunked health misconceptions surprise you? At Compass Community Health, we’re here to provide you with fact-based health advice and compassionate care. No matter your health journey, we’re here for YOU! Give us a call today at (740) 355-7102.
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