In Fact’s Top 10 Myths and Misconceptions Debunked
As the old adage goes, "just because it’s true doesn’t mean it’s true." In a world where information is readily available at our fingertips, it’s easy to get caught up in myths and misconceptions. But, what if I told you that some of the things you’ve come to believe as fact are actually fiction? In this article, we’re busting the top 10 myths and misconceptions that have been debunked, and exploring the fascinating truth behind them.
1. Cracking Your Knuckles Will Give You Arthritis
You’ve probably been warned by your grandma (or multiple grandmas) that cracking your knuckles will lead to a lifetime of creaky joints and arthritis. But, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, the risk of developing osteoarthritis is no higher for knuckle crackers than for non-crackers. So, go ahead and get cracking (pun intended)!
2. You Only Use 10% of Your Brain
This myth has been around since the 1900s, and has been debunked by neuroscientists time and time again. In reality, humans use almost every part of their brain, and the idea that some people are "left-brained" or "right-brained" is largely a myth. So, next time someone says you’re only using 10% of your brain, you can confidently tell them they’re full of it.
3. Glass is a Liquid
This one’s been around for a while, and it’s still widely believed that glass is a liquid. But, according to the American Chemical Society, glass is actually an amorphous solid that doesn’t flow or change shape over time. So, the next time someone tells you that glass is flowing like a liquid, you can correct them and impress them with your science-y knowledge.
4. Antiperspirants Cause Cancer
This myth has been making the rounds for years, claiming that the chemicals in antiperspirants can cause cancer. But, according to the World Health Organization, there is no credible evidence to support this claim. So, go ahead and keep on sweating (and deodorizing) – you’re not putting your health at risk.
5. You Shouldn’t Drink Water Before a Meal
This one’s been around for ages, claiming that drinking water before a meal will dilute your stomach acid and prevent proper digestion. But, according to the American Heart Association, there’s no scientific evidence to support this claim. So, go ahead and quench your thirst before dinner – your stomach will thank you.
6. Sharks Are Mindless Killers
This myth has been perpetuated by Hollywood and popular culture, depicting sharks as bloodthirsty monsters with no regard for human life. But, in reality, most shark attacks are cases of mistaken identity, and sharks are actually very intelligent and social creatures. So, the next time you’re at the beach, don’t worry – the sharks are probably just looking for a nice game of underwater basketball.
7. You Should Sleep on Your Back to Prevent Wrinkles
This one’s been around for years, claiming that sleeping on your back will cause wrinkles because your face is squished against the pillow. But, according to the American Academy of Dermatology, the only way to prevent wrinkles is to use sunscreen, don’t smoke, and maintain a healthy lifestyle. So, go ahead and sleep on your back – your face will thank you (or not, because, let’s be real, you’re still going to get wrinkles).
8. Chewing Gum Takes 7 Years to Digest
This one’s been around for ages, claiming that it takes 7 years for your body to digest a piece of gum. But, according to the American Chemical Society, gum is actually indigestible and will pass through your system without being broken down. So, the next time someone tells you it’ll take 7 years to digest that piece of gum, you can confidently tell them they’re full of it.
9. Eating Carrots Will Give You Better Eyesight
This myth has been around since the 1940s, claiming that eating carrots will improve your eyesight. But, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, carrots may help prevent age-related macular degeneration, but they won’t improve existing eyesight. So, go ahead and crunch on those carrots – your eyesight might just thank you.
10. Humans Can’t Live to 150 Years Old
This one’s been around for a while, claiming that humans have a maximum lifespan of 120-130 years. But, according to the National Institute on Aging, while it’s unlikely that humans will live to 150 years old, advances in medicine and technology could potentially lead to increased lifespans. So, who knows – maybe one day we’ll all be living it up until 150 and beyond!
FAQs
Q: Are there any other myths and misconceptions out there that I should know about?
A: Absolutely! There are many more myths and misconceptions out there. Check out our website for more informative articles and stay curious!
Q: How do I stay up-to-date with the latest scientific discoveries and advancements?
A: Follow reputable scientific sources and news outlets, and always fact-check information before sharing it with others.
Q: What’s the best way to approach a friend or family member who believes in a myth or misconception?
A: Approach the conversation with empathy and patience. Try to understand where they’re coming from and present evidence-based information in a non-confrontational way.
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In conclusion, it’s never too late to learn the truth about the myths and misconceptions that have been surrounding us for years. By staying curious and open-minded, we can all become more informed and more confident in our understanding of the world around us. So, go ahead and crack those knuckles, drink that water before dinner, and sleep on your back – you’re not putting your health at risk, and you’re probably just fine!
