由 home-healthhaven 
Have You Fallen for These Common Health Myths?
February can be a busy month. You might be excited about Valentine’s Day plans or looking to slim down before summer. As you browse the internet and flip through magazines for quick tips, ask yourself: is this a myth or reality?
Even the experts in women’s health can be fooled by some common misconceptions, especially in the realms of sex and nutrition. Here’s a rundown of popular myths and the truth behind them:
Sex Myths:
1. **Birth Control and Antibiotics**: Have you heard that antibiotics can make birth control pills ineffective? A study by the Indiana University School of Medicine, reported in The New York Times, found no evidence that antibiotics affect birth control. So, there’s no need to stress about which pill to prioritize; both are important.
2. **Singles vs. Married Sex Lives**: Contrary to popular belief, married couples generally have more sex in a year compared to singles. The same study showed that married people are also more likely to experience orgasms and engage in oral sex. So, the idea that singles have better sex lives doesn’t hold up.
3. **Sexual Peak**: It’s often said that women hit their sexual peak at 35 due to hormonal changes. However, multiple studies reveal no significant hormone surge at this age. Many experts think women may simply feel more confident and know what they want in their 30s, but experiences vary widely.
Nutrition Myths:
1. **Eight Glasses of Water a Day**: While staying hydrated is crucial, you don’t need to stick rigidly to eight glasses of water daily. If your urine is bright yellow, you might need more water. If it’s clear, you’re hydrated enough. Remember, beverages like tea and juice also count towards your fluid intake.
2. **Juice is Bad**: Not all juice is created equal. While sugary drinks should be avoided, 100% juice can be a healthy addition, providing you with a serving of fruit and essential antioxidants. A small glass of natural juice can give you a morning boost without the crash that comes from caffeine.
3. **No Eating After 7 p.m.**: Life doesn’t always allow for early dinners, and sometimes, you just need to eat later. Eating a heavy meal before bed can disrupt sleep, but a light, healthy snack like grilled chicken and rice won’t keep you up. The key is to be mindful of what and how much you eat, no matter the time.
Before following any diet advice you come across, it’s a good idea to do some research. There’s a lot of misinformation out there, and not much of it is accurate.