Tag: Debunking myths

On September 21, 1995, reports of Hindu idols seemingly drinking milk swept the globe, captivating millions and causing a global sensation. But what is the science behind idols drinking milk? The answer lies not in a divine miracle, but in the fascinating world of physics, specifically capillary action and surface tension.

The folk remedy of using onions to absorb toxins dates back centuries, rooted in the now-debunked 'miasma theory' of disease. Despite persistent anecdotes, modern science has found no evidence to support the claim that **onions can draw toxins out of your body** when placed on the feet or in a room.

Recent studies have debunked the long-held myth that coffee is dehydrating, with researchers finding that moderate coffee consumption hydrates the body just as effectively as water. But does plain coffee count as water intake for your daily fluid goals? The answer is more nuanced than you might think, balancing caffeine's mild diuretic effect with the beverage's high water content.

Over 90% of the global population is exposed to air pollution levels that exceed WHO guidelines, sparking interest in lung health. The idea that a specific fruit detoxes the lungs is a myth, but certain fruits contain powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that scientifically support lung function and help mitigate environmental damage.

According to a long-standing but incorrect gym myth, creatine can make your cramps worse by causing dehydration. However, a growing body of robust scientific evidence and controlled studies shows this claim to be false, with some findings suggesting the exact opposite effect.

The human body requires a constant supply of oxygen for survival, with a single breath providing more oxygen than a bottle of oxygenated water. This fundamental biological truth immediately sheds light on the common question: do we absorb oxygen from drinking water?

According to multiple health authorities, consuming baking soda has not been scientifically proven to cure or prevent viral infections like the cold or flu. For those wondering, does baking soda get rid of sick?, the answer is a firm no when it comes to infectious diseases, despite common folklore.

The well-known recommendation to drink eight glasses of water a day is a common rule of thumb that, if using a standard 8-ounce glass, approximates to about 1.92 litres. However, this figure is not a one-size-fits-all solution for hydration. Understanding how many litres are there in 8 glasses based on various factors can provide a much more personalized and effective approach to meeting your daily fluid needs.

For decades, the recommendation to cycle creatine—taking it for a few weeks, then stopping—persisted, often based on early-stage concerns. However, modern scientific evidence and decades of research have provided a definitive answer that challenges this old-school gym lore.

Despite the common folk saying to 'starve a fever,' a 2025 review in Everyday Health confirms that eating nutritious food when you have a 101 fever is crucial for recovery. Your body needs energy to fight off infection, and withholding calories can hinder your immune system, potentially prolonging your illness. Here’s what you need to know about nourishing your body when you're under the weather.