Practices Popularly Mistaken as "Healthy"

While multivitamins are not harmful, they do not protect against heart disease, cancer, or mental deterioration. A diet high in vegetables, whole grains, fruits, and low-fat dairy will provide you with the same (or better) nutritional benefits. This article elaborates on similar practices that have been popularly considered healthy while being the contrary.

Fremont, CA: According to British research from 2005, leaving your bed unmade may help reduce allergens in your home by eliminating dust mites. But, before you take bed-making off your to-do list, remember that there is little data to back up these claims. You should use dust-proof allergy coverings, wash sheets and blankets regularly in hot water, and avoid using down comforters or pillows. Keep drapes, wall-to-wall carpeting, and upholstered furniture out of your bedroom, and use a high-quality air conditioner filter. Some other standard practices have been inaccurately considered healthy while causing harm. This article takes a look at a few such practices:

Cleanses

Cleanses, sometimes known as detoxes, involves fasting, drinking or eating only specific foods or liquids, or taking supplements or herbs to remove toxins from your body or lose weight. However, they are more likely to do harm than good. Little scientific evidence supports these claims, and some programs may be dangerous.

Daily Showers

Washing with soap every day can deplete your skin's natural oils, leaving it dry and more susceptible to illness. Using antibacterial soap increases the danger since it can ruin the "good" bacteria on your skin, lowering your immunity. Instead, take three or four showers every week.

Low-Fat Foods

Low fat does not always equal healthy. When you reduce fat, you often lose fibre, protein, or amino acids while increasing carbs. A better strategy is to reduce trans fats and saturated fats while maintaining healthy fats from foods like avocados, nuts and seeds, olive oil, and salmon.

Brushing After a Meal

Healthy teeth and gums are vital for optimal health. Brushing, on the other hand, requires careful timing. Wait an hour after eating, especially if you had acidic meals or drank soda. This allows your enamel time to harden again before brushing.

Antioxidant Supplements

Antioxidants such as vitamin C, E, and beta carotene assist your body combat free radicals, which can harm cells and genes. However, antioxidants in supplements differ from those found in foods. These free radical fighters must collaborate with nutrients, plant compounds, and other antioxidants to perform optimally.

B12 Injections

If you have low vitamin B12 levels, shots and pills can assist with memory problems, walking difficulties, and weakness. However, they do not provide a general health benefit for persons with normal levels. Despite claims that they can help you lose weight and gain more energy, there is no evidence that you will get these benefits if your B12 levels are already standard.