Health myths that need to die

Myths around health in India are as spicy and juicy as the food that Indians consume. Here are some popular myths and the bland facts: Health myths that need to die.

Health myth #1: Eating fat makes you fat

This must have been a chapter in your diet rule book if you are one of those who diet seriously. Considering the fact that you want to melt the belly fat, it is important to control your fat intake no doubt. However, studies show that diets rich in omega 3 fatty acids have a better chance in controlling obesity and maintaining overall health than a diet that hardly has any amount of fats.

Beware: Everyday habits that can make you fat

Remember that your body needs each nutrient in the food. Totally avoiding certain food groups can lead to serious health issues.

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   Insufficient sleep: If you have been losing sleep or not sleeping enough, chances are you will put on weight. This will happen because people who don’t get the right amount of sleep tend to feel hungrier even if they have eaten a full meal. The appetite in your body is regulated by a hormone called cortisol which is secreted during sleep. If you don’t sleep well enough, your system gets imbalanced leading you to feel hungry and eventually taking in more calories than you need. Another side effect of sleep loss is the increase of fat storage in the body. So make sure you go to bed on time and get a good 8 hours of rest.

Health myth #2: Stress can turn your hair gray

Studies have proven this one wrong. Our hair tends to gray depending on our genetic makeup. Stress does have an effect on it; however, it is not a determining factor for the graying of hair.

Health myth #3: I feel good means I am healthy

You should know that your body is invaded and attacked by innumerable foreign particles daily. Nearly 70% of heart patients do not think they have a heart problem until they land up in a hospital. People do not realize that they have been affected by cancer until they’ve almost reached the end stage.

This is when a regular checkup comes into view. Wake up, your otherwise healthy body could be suffering and dying from inside.

Health myth #4: Exercise more to lose weight faster

Another seriously flawed plan followed by diet conscious people. Too much exercise harms you in more ways than one. It not only wears you out physically, leaving you more tired, but also increases your appetite. Also, studies have shown that strenuous exercise can damage your joints and ligaments. Moderation is the key when it comes to weight loss diets.

Health myth #5: Saturated fat is harmful for your body

Every single nutrient you consume is required by your body for completing a certain vital function, establishing the body’s state of well being or regulating certain body processes. Saturated fats and cholesterol have their own role to play. They maintain hormonal balance and act as stabilizing units that protect the body against inflammatory damage.

Too much of these can be harmful for your health, no doubt. But they are essential for normal body functioning.