There’s tons of false information running rampant in our culture through the media. You start questioning everything you hear because you don’t know what’s true.
As it turns out, there might be more questions than answers. Many of the “facts” you were taught growing up are myths.Â
The most common myths you know are likely widely taught. Maybe it’s your turn to start debunking these misconceptions.Â
Common Myths:Â
You only use 10% of your brain.
This idea was debunked long ago, but it’s still spread as factual. Scientists know that you use the majority of your brain nearly all the time. This myth began most likely as a Hollywood scheme to promote sci-fi entertainment.
You need to drink 8 glasses of water a day.
Everyone’s body is different, so this one-size-fits-all measurement might be more harmful than you think. It’s important to hydrate properly, but you must learn what that means for your body. Keep in mind: if your urine is too yellow, you’re dehydrated, but if it’s too clear, you have a sodium deficiency.Â
Dogs only see black and white.
The idea that dogs can only see the world in black and white is a common misconception. Dogs don’t have the incredible eye for colors like humans have, but they can see and distinguish between colors.
You need to wait 20 minutes after you eat to swim.
Good news! There’s no need to wait to swim to avoid cramps. The idea that you will cramp from eating as soon as you get back in the pool is just an old wives’ tale.Â
If you play in the rain, you’ll catch a cold.
Wet hair or clothing has nothing to do with a virus, so it’s incredible that this common myth made it this far. Germs contend as the only virus inducer, despite what your mother may have told you as a child.
Gum stays in your digestive system for up to 7 years.
If you’ve ever swallowed gum, you may have panicked at the thought of how long it will be in your body. Most likely, what you’ve heard is that it might be seven years until your body takes to break down the gum. This is probably just something grownups came up with to keep their kids from swallowing gum because it’s completely false.
Gum doesn’t get digested whatsoever. As soon as it enters your body, it stays intact on its journey directly through your digestive system.
Peeing on a jellyfish sting helps with the pain.
The idea that urine helps sterilize or reduce the pain of a jellyfish sting has never been backed by science. Rather than urine, consider vinegar to lessen the pain the next time you encounter a jellyfish.
If you hold a baby bird, its mother will leave it.
Many people avoid caring for injured baby birds because of this idea. A mother bird does not quickly abandon her babies, even if your scent is all over it.
What’s the truth?
There are loads of “facts” that you may hear or spread that are not so factual. Although these quick tidbits of information might sound fascinating, most of them aren’t true. So why is it that they spread like wildfire?
You can kindly shut it down next time you hear someone spreading false information. Now you know the truth behind some of the most common myths!
