Separating Myth From Fact: Health Myths Debunked

Did you know that if you were able to print out all the information housed on the internet, it would stack to the moon and back hundreds of times? While having access to such a wealth of knowledge is a gift, it can also complicate the process of determining whether information is factual, especially when it comes to health and well-being.

Keep reading to learn more about three health myths you can ignore, three you can’t and how we can partner with you to filter myths from facts.

Common Health Myths Debunked

1. Eating before bedtime leads to weight gain.

Our metabolism slows in the evening, leading many to believe that eating before bedtime leads to weight gain. While recent research does show a slight correlation between eating late in the evening and weight gain, what’s on your plate has a much greater effect than the timing. If your dinners tend to be higher in fat, sodium and cholesterol, there’s a greater chance it will lead to weight gain over time. But if you prioritize protein, fiber and complex carbohydrates in your dinners to keep you full throughout the night, it’s unlikely that this will lead to weight gain over time.

2. Sugar substitutes are bad.

Sugar intake has been, and continues to be, a trending topic in the health care community. Beginning in the mid-1960s, sugar alternatives, such as aspartame and sucralose, came on the scene to offer a burst of sweetness with little to no calories. Some sugar alternatives, such as stevia and monk fruit, are derived from plants that provide a more natural source of sweetness. Other alternatives, such as erythritol and sorbitol, also occur naturally in microorganisms and carbohydrates.

Some believe sugar substitutes are bad for your health, but research shows that in moderation, these alternatives, especially naturally occurring ones, are considered healthy for most adults. But it’s important to know that more research is needed on the long-term effects of sugar substitutes.

3. Taking large amounts of vitamins can be helpful.

While taking natural vitamins is a great way to ensure your body gets the nutrients it needs, too much of a good thing can become harmful. In the world of social media, many claim that taking a multitude of vitamins every day is essential for health and well-being, but the reality is that this can do more harm than good. If, for example, you were to take large amounts of vitamin A and D every day, over time, this can lead to health complications like liver damage, hair loss, bone and muscle pain and even birth defects.

To ensure you’re getting the vitamins you need, talk with your primary care provider. They’ll help you determine if supplements are a good fit for your needs and provide a proper dosage to follow. It’s always best to consult your doctor before taking vitamins.

Science-Backed Health Facts

1. Sitting too much is dangerous, even if you exercise.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), recent research indicates that approximately 31% of adults worldwide do not meet the recommended amount of daily physical activity. The largest contributor to this was too much sitting. The WHO recommends 150 minutes of physical activity per week for most healthy adults. Doing this is proven to help reduce cancer and heart disease, as well as an opportunity to improve mental health. Sitting for long periods of time consistently can become dangerous by increasing your chances of developing other chronic conditions. It’s best to talk with your primary care provider to create an exercise routine that works for you and your goals and helps you stay active.

2. Stress causes gray hair.

Recent research supports the notion that stress can turn your hair gray. The study found that your body's natural fight-or-flight response plays a key role in this process. There are nerves in your sympathetic nervous system that are found throughout your body, including hair follicles. Stress causes the release of a chemical called norepinephrine into hair follicles. This chemical affects the pigment-producing stem cells called melanocytes and causes them to turn into pigment cells that move out of the hair follicles. Without stem cells to create new pigment cells, your hair turns gray or white.

3. Eating carrots improves your vision.

It’s been said before that eating carrots can improve your vision, but is it true? Research supports this claim. Carrots contain various beneficial compounds, including carotenoids, vitamins, flavonoids, polyacetylenes and minerals, which offer numerous health benefits, including supporting your eye health. Carrots have antioxidant, anticarcinogenic and immune-boosting properties because of the carotenoids, vitamins and polyphenols within them, which supports the claim that they’re good for eye health.

How We Can Be Your Lens

Sifting through the internet to find answers for your health can feel overwhelming. But rest assured, we have the answers you need. Our dedicated primary care providers are here to guide you toward a better understanding of your health and manage your care through a compassionate, physician-patient relationship. No matter what questions you may have about your health, our PCPs are here for you and will point you in the right direction, whether that be direct care or a referral to a specialist. We’ll act as your lens and help you decipher myth from fact, so you can receive the care you deserve.

Helping You Live a Life of Wellness

Living a life of wellness starts by having the right care team by your side. Find a primary care provider near you, or learn more about our wellness care services. We’ll guide you to health in body, mind and spirit.