We all have fond memories of our childhood, filled with tales our parents told us, some whimsical and some cautionary. However, as we grow older, we start questioning these narratives, realizing that not all were rooted in truth. Here are six lies you might still believe today.
1. Eating Carrots Improves Night Vision
Many of us grew up hearing that munching on carrots would grant us superior night vision. This tale, though well-intentioned, isn’t entirely accurate. Carrots do contain vitamin A, essential for maintaining healthy eyesight, but they won’t transform you into a nocturnal superhero.
The myth gained popularity during World War II when the British Royal Air Force claimed their pilots had exceptional night vision thanks to carrots, a cover-up for using radar technology. So, while carrots are indeed nutritious, they won’t provide night vision, but they certainly make for a healthy snack!
Next time you reach for a carrot, enjoy it for its crunch, not its superpowers.
2. Swallowed Gum Takes Seven Years to Digest
Remember being terrified of swallowing gum because it supposedly lingered in your stomach for seven years? This myth is far from the truth. When you swallow gum, it moves through your digestive system like most other foods.
While it’s true that gum is not digestible, it doesn’t stay in your stomach for seven years. Instead, it passes through your system and exits without much ado.
Though not a health hazard in small amounts, it’s still wise not to make a habit of swallowing gum. Enjoy your gum, but when you’re done, find a proper place to dispose of it.
3. If You Cross Your Eyes, They’ll Get Stuck
Parents often warned that crossing your eyes might lead to them permanently staying that way. While crossing your eyes can feel funny and look amusing, it won’t cause any lasting effects.
This myth likely emerged as a playful way to discourage children from making silly faces. In reality, your eye muscles are more resilient than that, and your eyes will return to normal once you stop concentrating on crossing them.
So, if you want to make someone laugh by crossing your eyes, go ahead. Rest assured, your eyes won’t remain crossed indefinitely.
4. Shaving Makes Hair Grow Back Thicker
The belief that shaving causes hair to grow back thicker is a widespread misconception. When you shave, you’re cutting hair at the skin’s surface, giving it a blunt tip. This can make the hair feel coarser or appear darker as it grows out, but it doesn’t change its thickness.
The hair’s texture and color are determined by genetics, not shaving frequency. So, if you’re concerned about shaving leading to a thicker mane, rest assured it’s just an illusion.
Feel free to shave whenever necessary without the worry of altering your hair’s natural growth pattern.
5. Cracking Knuckles Causes Arthritis
Cracking your knuckles might annoy those around you, but it’s unlikely to cause arthritis. This myth has been debunked by various studies, showing no connection between the habit and the development of arthritis.
The popping sound comes from bubbles bursting in the synovial fluid that lubricates your joints. While excessive cracking might lead to hand swelling or reduced grip strength, it won’t lead to arthritis.
If you enjoy cracking your knuckles or need to relieve some tension, go ahead. Just be mindful of others who might not share your enthusiasm for the habit.
6. You Only Use 10% of Your Brain
The idea that we only use 10% of our brain is a myth that has persisted for decades. Neuroscientists have proven that we use virtually every part of our brain, even when we’re resting or sleeping.
Modern brain imaging techniques show activity coursing through the entire organ, debunking the notion of untapped potential lying dormant.
While it’s inspiring to think we might unlock hidden abilities, the truth is more fascinating: our brains are highly efficient, continually working to process information and control bodily functions. Celebrate your brain for the marvel it is, working tirelessly beyond the mythical 10%.
Well, hello there!
My name is Jennifer. Besides being an orthodontist, I am a mother to 3 playful boys. In this motherhood journey, I can say I will never know everything. That’s why I always strive to read a lot, and that’s why I started writing about all the smithereens I came across so that you can have everything in one place! Enjoy and stay positive; you’ve got this!