The holiday season is here! Be prepared to start hearing some well-known seasonal health myths. According to Rachel Vreeman, MD, and Aaron Carroll, MD, here are a few to be on the lookout for this holiday season.
Sugar and hyperactivity. Sugar does not cause behavior problems in children. At least a dozen high-quality studies have investigated whether or not a link exists between children's behavior and sugar intake, and none have found any difference between children who consumed a lot and those who didn’t. Regardless of what parents might believe, sugar is not to blame for out-of-control little ones.
Holiday Suicides. Suicides don’t increase in the winter or around the holidays. Worldwide, suicide rates are actually higher in the summer. Although the holidays may be a stressful time for some, there is no scientific evidence to suggest a holiday peak in suicides.
Toxic poinsettias. For years, we have been warned that these beautiful red and pink plants are poisonous. Parents magazines, medical books, and even doctors and veterinarians said to keep these toxic plants out of the reach of children and pets. However, poinsettias have undergone extensive testing, and there is no evidence that they are toxic or unsafe to have in the house. Vreeman and Carroll found no proof that ingesting poinsettia parts makes for a medical emergency. It would probably cause some stomach upset, as would eating most any houseplant. Regardless, there is no need to test that!
Wearing hats. People do not lose a large percentage of body heat through their head. Any uncovered body part loses heat and will reduce the core body temperature proportionately. The face, head and chest may feel more sensitive to changes in temperature than the rest of the body, which may make it seem as if covering them up does more to prevent heat loss. But, the fact is that covering one part of the body has as much effect as covering any other. Regardless, I recommend you bundle up all of your body when you go outside this winter!
Nighttime feasting and weight gain. According to the U.S. Department of Health, it doesn’t matter what time of day you eat. It is what and how much you eat and how much physical activity you do during the whole day that determines whether you gain, lose, or maintain your weight. Vreeman and Carroll agree that it’s the calories that matter.
Hangover cures. Vreeman and Caroll found no scientific evidence that supports any cure or effective prevention for alcohol hangover except for drinking alcohol only in moderation or not at all.
Hopefully this has helped to clear up some common seasonal misconceptions. Are you wondering whether or not something else you’ve heard is fact or fiction? If so, feel free to ask! Happy Holidays!
Source: WebMD Health News
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