We've all grown up with advice (or rather, warnings) from our parents that often sounded like indisputable facts. But what happens when we discover that some of it is simply myth? Here are some of the sweetest lies we heard during childhood.
1. If you sit too close to the TV, your eyesight will be damaged.
Actually, sitting in front of the TV doesn't hurt your eyes, but it can make your eyes tired. Just take small breaks and everything will be fine.
2. If you eat carrots, you will see better at night
Carrots are rich in vitamin A, which helps eye health, but they don't give you superpowers. This idea started as propaganda during World War II and has remained a myth.
3. Don't swim after eating because you might get cramps.
There is no scientific evidence linking food to cramps while swimming. You can swim without any problems, as long as you haven't eaten so much that you feel heavy.
4. Don't swallow gum, it will stay in your stomach for seven years
The body can't digest gum, but that doesn't mean it gets stuck in your stomach for seven years. It passes through your digestive system like any other food (although, you'd better not swallow it!).
5. If you go out without a hood in winter, you will get sick.
The truth is that colds don't make you sick, viruses do. Sure, if you spend a lot of time in the cold, you can lower your immunity, but it doesn't mean you'll automatically catch a cold without a hat.
6. If I use a razor on my hair, it will grow thicker and darker.
Hairs look stronger when they grow back, but this is because their new tip is thicker, not because they grow back more frequently or darker.
7. If you break a bone, it will heal stronger than before
As bones heal, they don't get stronger. In fact, they may be weaker for a while after healing.
8. If you catch too many frogs, you'll get warts on your hands.
Warts are caused by viruses, not frogs. But if you're afraid of frogs, this myth may have kept you away from them!
9. If you crack your knuckles, you will get arthritis.
That popping sound you make when you crack your knuckles is just gas released from joint fluids, not something that causes arthritis.
10. If you eat too much sugar, you will become hyperactive.
There is no link between sugar and hyperactivity in children. It seems that just partying and enthusiasm are what make children energetic!
If any of these myths bring back memories from your childhood, don't worry—our parents just wanted the best for us. But now that we know the truth, maybe it's time to tell them too!
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