False notions about health and nutrition cause many to aviod innocuous food and behaviors to prevent an illness, and to believe that certain concocted remedies can cure their ailments.

There are widespread misconceptions about health, but you don’t have to fall victim to them.  Here’s a guide to some common myths debunked.

Hangovers can be cured

As much as we all want there to be a sure-all-end-all cure to alleviate the pains resulting from a night out, and as much as many of us will attest that we have found our own cures, research shows no scientific evidence to support any type of cure for alcohol hangovers.  Only time and rehydration can help you feel better.

Cold weather makes you sick

Despite the approaching cold weather and spreading sneezes, this myth does not hold much truth.

In studies of cold transmission, it did not seem that people who are chilled are more likely to get sick.

It may just be that people spend more time indoors in closer contact with others, where germs can pose a bigger threat.

You lose most of your body heat through your head

Also appropriate for the winter months, there is nothing special about the head and heat loss.

You can lose heat through any exposed body part, so be sure to bundle up all parts of your body to stay warm.

Cracking you knuckles causes arthritis

Aside from the annoying sounds cracking knuckles produce, it is a habit that is more of a nuisance to others than a threat to your health. 

It doesn’t actually cause any damage to the cartilage in-between bones.  So keep cracking away, so long as no one is around.

You should drink 8 glasses of water each day

Existing studies suggest that adequate fluid intake can come from daily consumption of juice, tea, milk and even some caffeinated beverages. 

However, there are still many health benefits to drinking untainted H2O – just don’t feel obligated to drink a full glass every two hours. 

Your bladder will thank you.

Vitamin C prevents colds

Many of us have been led to believe that a glass of orange juice is one of the best preventative measures to ward off colds. 

Unfortunately, some studies show that individuals takindaily vitamin C supplements were just as likely to develop colds.  Plus, orange juice contains a lot of sugar, which weakens the immune system. So, if you’re looking for vitamin C, taking supplements is a better option.

However, washing your hands often and getting enough sleep are much better at keeping you cold-free. Bacteria typically survives on objects such as books for 6-8 hours. By washing your hands often you will remove this bacteria from your hands.

5-Second rule

Regrettably, the belief that no bacteria will latch on to a piece of food that has been dropped on the ground just isn’t realistic. 

Suggestion: if a parcel of food has hit a relatively clean floor, just eat it. Bacteria exposure can actually be beneficial, allowing your immune system to bolster up its defense against a new pathogen. 

One caveat however: if that floor happens to be the one at the Border, just count your losses and let it go.

Although you have followed these health myths all of your life, don’t fear. 

You now have the real tools to stay healthy this winter.

Nick Pisciotta is a molecular biology major who is passionate aboont diet and excercise programs to better his health.