In tonight’s edition of NCN Health, presented by Guyana Trinidad Mutual Insurance Company Limited and Essential Care Pharmacy, we’ll be clearing up some common health myths and distinguishing them from established facts.
Here’s a closer look:
Myth #1: The 5-Second Rule It’s widely believed that food dropped on the floor for less than five seconds is still safe to eat. In reality, bacteria can transfer to food almost instantaneously. The cleanliness of the floor doesn’t guarantee that it’s free from germs. To avoid foodborne illness, it’s best to discard dropped food or wash it thoroughly before consumption.
Myth #2: Apply Ice to Burns Applying ice to burns might seem like a good idea, but research indicates that it can worsen the injury by causing frostbite-like damage to the skin. Instead of ice or greasy substances like butter, the recommended treatment is to run cool water over the burn for several minutes to alleviate pain and prevent further damage.
Myth #3: Sleeping with Wet Hair Causes Colds Contrary to popular belief, sleeping with wet hair does not cause colds. Colds are caused by viruses, not by being cold or damp. However, if you are prone to acne, wet hair can contribute to bacteria growth on your pillow. Regularly changing pillowcases can help mitigate this risk.
Myth #4: Peeling Fruits and Vegetables is Healthier Many believe that peeling fruits and vegetables removes harmful substances, but the truth is that skins are rich in nutrients. For example, apples with skin contain more vitamins and minerals than peeled ones, and potatoes with skin offer higher vitamin C levels. Additionally, fruit and vegetable skins are high in fiber, which supports digestion and overall health. Just make sure to wash produce thoroughly before eating to remove any contaminants.
Stay tuned for more health insights in our next edition of NCN Health, and remember to challenge these myths with accurate information!