Lisa Conway – FLORIDA TODAY
Q: Can you settle an argument with my mom about when to wear sunscreen?
A: Many people think you only need sunscreen on sunny days. It’s a popular myth, but here’s the truth: To keep our skin safe and protected, sunscreen should be worn daily. Even when it’s cloudy, up to 80% of the sun’s UV radiation reaches the earth! Now that we’ve settled that, let’s look at nine other common healthcare myths.
- “Natural Remedies Are Always Safe”
While many natural remedies have benefits, they are not always safe or effective. Some herbal supplements can interact with medications or cause serious side effects. Always check with your doctor or pharmacist before adding natural remedies to your regime.
- “Antibiotics Cure Viruses”
Antibiotics are effective against bacterial infections, not viruses like the flu or the common cold. Taking antibiotics unnecessarily contributes to antibiotic resistance, making bacterial infections harder to treat.
- “Cracking Your Knuckles Causes Arthritis”
There is zero scientific evidence linking knuckle cracking to arthritis. The popping sound comes from gas bubbles in the joint fluid, not bone damage.
- “Vaccines Cause Autism”
As explained in a John Hopkins March 2025 article, this myth originated from a 1998 paper that was later retracted, and several large studies have since shown no association between vaccines and autism. Unfortunately, trust in vaccines has been undermined. Vaccines are essential for preventing deadly diseases.
- “You Should Detox with Juice Cleanses”
Your liver and kidneys naturally detoxify your body. Extreme juice cleanses can actually deprive your body of essential nutrients.
- “Microwaving Food Destroys Nutrients”
Harvard Health shares that because microwave cooking times are shorter, with minimal water loss, cooking with a microwave does a better job of preserving nutrients that break down when heated.
- “You Need to Drink Eight Glasses of Water a Day”
This myth has been around since 1945. Hydration needs vary based on diet, activity, health conditions and climate. Many foods contain water, and your body signals when you need more. During our hot Florida summers, pay particular attention to hydration.
- “Cold Weather Makes You Sick”
Colds and flu are caused by viruses, not cold weather. People tend to get sick when they spend more time indoors in close contact with others.
- “Sugar Causes Hyperactivity in Children”
Studies show that sugar does not cause hyperactivity. However, eating and drinking too much added sugar puts kids at risk for obesity, tooth decay and other health problems, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.
When in doubt differentiating between truth and myth, consult your healthcare professional. For more information and advice on successful aging, visit www.OneSeniorPlace.com
Lisa Conway is a Registered Nurse, Certified Dementia Practitioner and a Certified Care Manager for One Senior Place Care Management, Viera. Ms. Conway hosts a monthly seminar, ‘Senior Health Friday with Nurse Lisa.’ One Senior Place is a marketplace for resources and provider of information, advice, care and on-site services for seniors and their families. Submit your questions to AskOSP@OneSeniorPlace.com. For immediate help, call 321-751-6771 or visit One Senior Place, The Experts in Aging.
