Human health is constantly evolving and new research and findings into what is best for our bodies and minds are constantly being looked into. This may have us believe that what we had heard when we were younger is likely false. However, there are a number of cases, where these apparent ‘myths’ turned out to be true. Take a look at these bits of conventional wisdom that are actually backed by science.
1. An apple a day keeps the doctor away
To a certain extent, eating an apple a day can keep the doctor away. According to researchers from Cornell’s Food Science and Toxicology Department found that one fresh apple contains the antioxidant properties equal to 1500 milligrams of vitamin C. To keep your immune system functioning, your body needs vitamin C. However, German researchers in 2009, found that vitamin C can’t prevent you from catching something like a cold virus, or make it any less severe. Still, sufficient levels can reduce the duration of the illness in healthy persons.
2. Bundle up or you’ll catch a cold
As such, a virus is what causes a cold, not the cold weather itself. However, there is some truth to this partial health myth. According to a 2016 study at the Children’s Hospital in Boston, “most strains of rhinovirus (the common cold virus) replicate better at cool temperatures.” This means that while you won’t catch a cold from the cold, the virus is more likely to stick in lower temperatures.
3. Fresh fruits and vegetables are healthier than frozen produce
A study conducted in 2015 at the University of California, looked at eight different veggies and fruits. While the results varied, researchers found that fresh peas had more vitamin B than frozen ones. Meanwhile, a 2010 study from the Department of Public health in Parma, Italy, discovered that when fresh, vegetables such as cabbage, kale, Brussels sprouts, and cauliflower maintained more antioxidants and phytochemicals.
4. Chicken soup can cure your cold
Chicken soup has long been deemed as a universal remedy for all that ails you. And, there is scientific evidence that this dish does make a difference. In fact, according to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, chicken soup provides our bodies with protein, vitamins, and antioxidants that boost our immune system.
5. Milk does the body good
Milk is great for our bodies, but not in the ways we knew as children. Back then, many of us heard that milk gives us strong bones. But, according to a 2014 study published in the British Medical Journal, there was no link between milk consumption and bone fracture risk. With this in mind, a 2011 study from McMaster University found milk to be more hydrating than water for children. This, researchers concluded that milk is better than sports drinks and water because it is a source of high-quality protein, carbs, calcium, and electrolytes.
6. Cholesterol is bad for you
While some cholesterol is bad for you, there are two types, LDL, which is bad, and HDL which is good. According to the American Heart Association, “Too much of the bad kind, or not enough of the good kind, increases the risk that cholesterol will slowly build up in the inner walls of the arteries that feed the heart and brain.” High cholesterol is linked to a heart attack and stroke because of this build-up in your arteries, which narrows them, making them less flexible, and preventing proper blood flow.
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