Debunking 5 widely promoted health myths
These are deeply ingrained prejudices and beliefs that, because they are so widespread, we sometimes take as valid.
Inside everyone there is a hidden doctor who, based on their own experience, believes they have found the formula to solve different health problems. In addition to this, popular culture has promoted certain "maxims" that, far from contributing to the search for truth, have fostered more confusion. These are deeply ingrained prejudices and beliefs that, because they are so widespread, we sometimes take as valid. Therefore, here are 5 common health myths based on false premises. 5 Health Myths: "Antibiotics cure colds." FALSE. Antibiotics only fight bacteria, not viruses like those that cause the common cold. Antibiotics work by attacking specific components of bacteria, such as the cell wall, protein synthesis, or bacterial DNA. These mechanisms cause the death or inhibition of bacterial growth.
While bacteria are living, single-celled organisms that can reproduce on their own and have complex cellular structures, viruses are infectious particles that need to invade human cells to replicate, as they cannot do so on their own.
Why antibiotics don't work against viruses:
Therefore, it is crucial to understand that antibiotics should only be used to treat bacterial infections and not common viruses like those that cause the cold.
“Walking barefoot causes colds.” FALSE, viruses do not enter through the feet; colds are caused by viruses.
The popular belief that walking barefoot causes colds is a common myth, but it lacks scientific basis. The common cold is caused by viruses, primarily rhinoviruses, which are transmitted through direct contact with infected people or contaminated surfaces, not by temperature or footwear. Walking barefoot, on the other hand, can be a healthy experience, as it allows the feet to breathe, improves circulation, and strengthens foot muscles. Furthermore,Direct contact with the ground can stimulate reflex points that contribute to overall well-being.
A cold occurs when a virus enters the body and multiplies, which depends primarily on the immune system and not the cold itself. In fact, cold weather can affect the body's ability to defend itself, but it is not the direct cause of a cold.
“Psychiatric medications change your personality.” FALSE. Medications are designed to reduce symptoms, not to change who you are.
The main goal is to restore the chemical balance in the brain, which may be disrupted, thus facilitating better management of emotions, thoughts, and behaviors.
Personality is formed by enduring traits that evolve naturally over time and are influenced by experiences, environment, and social interactions, not by medication. Medications help alleviate symptoms that interfere with daily life, without imposing an identity or altering character.
“Sexual desire is the same for everyone.”
FALSE, sexual desire is multifactorial and varies from person to person due to psychological, social, and hormonal factors.
Factors that affect sexual desire:
“All calories make you fat.” FALSE, not all calories are created equal; food quality is key to health.
It's based primarily on how the body processes and uses energy, which varies depending on the type of food, not just the number of calories consumed.
There are several factors that influence how calories affect body weight: