Back in Time Today
Old wives’ tales have been passed down through generations, often believed to hold kernels of truth. Yet, many of these are simply myths that have been debunked by science and common sense.
In this blog post, we’ll explore 50 of these tales that people still believe, even though they are completely false. From health myths to quirky beliefs about weather and food, this list will enlighten and amuse as we separate fact from fiction.
1. Cracking Knuckles Causes Arthritis
Many people think cracking your knuckles leads to arthritis, but this is a myth. The sound of cracking is actually caused by bubbles bursting in the synovial fluid of the joints. Studies have shown no direct link between knuckle cracking and arthritis development.
While it may annoy those around you, the habit is generally harmless. However, excessive cracking can lead to reduced grip strength over time. So, unless you’re experiencing pain or discomfort, there’s no need to worry about arthritis.
Feel free to crack away, but perhaps consider others’ peace of mind!
2. Swallowed Gum Stays in Your Stomach for Seven Years
Despite what you may have heard, swallowed gum won’t linger in your stomach for seven years. Gum is mostly indigestible, passing through your system like other non-nutritive items.
Your digestive tract is efficient at moving things along, and while gum doesn’t break down easily, it usually exits your body within days.
Of course, swallowing large amounts of gum isn’t advisable, as it can cause blockages. In moderation, however, there’s no need to fear—just chew responsibly!
3. Going Outside with Wet Hair Causes Colds
The belief that wet hair causes colds is unfounded. Colds are caused by viruses, not cold weather or wet hair.
While being cold can temporarily weaken your immune response, it doesn’t cause viruses to appear. You’re more likely to catch a cold from close contact with an infected person.
So, feel free to head out with wet hair if you’re in a rush, but remember that staying warm is more about comfort than avoiding illness.
4. Eating Carrots Improves Night Vision
Carrots are rich in vitamin A, which is essential for healthy vision, but they won’t give you night vision. This myth originated during World War II to mislead enemies about radar technology advancements.
While a nutrient-rich diet supports overall eye health, no food can enhance your ability to see in the dark. Eating carrots can prevent vitamin A deficiency, thus aiding general eye health.
For better night vision, you might need the help of advanced optics rather than an extra serving of carrots.
5. Shaving Hair Makes It Grow Back Thicker
Shaving hair doesn’t change its thickness, color, or growth rate. When hair grows back, the blunt tip can feel coarser, giving the illusion of thickness.
As hair continues to grow, it naturally becomes softer. Hormonal changes and genetics influence hair characteristics more than shaving habits.
So, shave away without worry! Your hair will return to its normal texture in time. Shaving is merely a grooming choice, not a game-changer for hair properties.
6. Touching Toads Causes Warts
Warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), not toads. This myth likely stems from the toad’s bumpy skin, which resembles warts.
Toads are generally harmless and touching them won’t transmit warts. However, handling toads gently is essential, as they are delicate creatures.
Remember to wash hands afterward to maintain hygiene. Enjoy your amphibian encounters without fear of skin blemishes!
7. Chocolate Causes Acne
The connection between chocolate and acne is a long-standing myth. Acne is primarily caused by hormonal changes and genetics, not specific foods.
Some studies suggest that high-sugar diets can exacerbate acne, but chocolate alone isn’t a culprit. Moderation and a balanced diet contribute more to skin health than avoiding chocolate.
Feel free to enjoy chocolate as part of a healthy lifestyle. Your skin’s health depends more on overall habits than occasional treats.
8. You’ll Catch a Cold if You Go to Bed with Wet Hair
This tale mirrors the myth about wet hair and colds. Colds are caused by viruses, not sleeping with wet hair.
While sleeping with wet hair may cause discomfort or increase susceptibility to fungal infections of the scalp, it won’t cause a cold.
For comfort and health, consider drying your hair before bed, but rest easy knowing it won’t lead to a cold. Viruses, not wet hair, are the true culprits.
9. Reading in Dim Light Damages Your Eyes
Dim lighting won’t cause permanent eye damage, though it can cause eye strain and discomfort. The myth likely originated from the temporary effects of straining to read in poor light.
Your eyes may tire more quickly, but resting them will alleviate discomfort. Using adequate lighting is more about comfort than preserving vision.
While good lighting is recommended, dim conditions aren’t harmful in the long run. Keep your reading enjoyable and well-lit for best results!
10. Fish is Brain Food
Fish is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for brain health, but it won’t make you smarter.
This belief likely arose from the nutrients in fish that support brain function. While fish can contribute to a healthy diet, intelligence is influenced by a range of factors including genetics and environment.
Enjoy fish for its nutrients and taste, but don’t expect a dramatic boost in IQ. Balance and variety in diet are key to overall health.
11. Blue Cheese is Made from Moldy Bread
Blue cheese is not made from moldy bread, although both involve mold. The blue veins in cheese come from Penicillium cultures, added during production.
The tale likely stems from historical cheese preservation methods involving bread molds. Today, blue cheese is crafted with care, ensuring a unique flavor and texture.
Savor the distinct taste of blue cheese, knowing it’s a result of precise cheesemaking techniques rather than leftover bread.
12. Eating Spicy Food Causes Ulcers
Spicy foods are often blamed for ulcers, but the real culprits are usually Helicobacter pylori bacteria or long-term NSAID use.
While spicy foods might irritate existing ulcers, they aren’t the cause. Enjoying spices in moderation is generally safe for most people.
If you have a sensitive stomach, balance spicy dishes with other foods to minimize discomfort. Relish the flavor without fear of causing ulcers!
13. Carrots Turn Skin Orange
Eating excessive amounts of carrots can cause a harmless condition called carotenemia, where skin turns slightly orange due to high beta-carotene levels.
This is not harmful and resolves with dietary adjustments. The myth exaggerates the effects, suggesting a drastic change from normal carrot consumption.
Enjoy carrots for their nutritional benefits without worry—just balance with other colorful fruits and vegetables for optimal health.
14. Hair Grows Back Darker After Being Pulled Out
Hair color isn’t changed by pulling it out. Regrowth appears darker because new hair hasn’t been exposed to light or hair products yet.
The belief likely arises from the contrast of new growth against existing hair. Over time, exposure to elements and grooming will lighten new hair to match.
Pluck away without fear of changing your hair’s natural color. Continuity in care maintains your look more than any isolated grooming choice.
15. Eating Chicken Soup Cures the Common Cold
Chicken soup is comforting during a cold, but it doesn’t cure the virus. Its warmth can soothe symptoms, and steam may help clear nasal passages.
Hydration and nutritious ingredients can support immune function, making it a beneficial comfort food.
While it won’t shorten a cold’s duration, chicken soup’s psychological comfort is undeniable. Enjoy it as part of a well-rounded approach to managing cold symptoms.
16. Pregnant Women Should Eat for Two
The idea of eating for two is misleading. While nutritional needs increase during pregnancy, doubling intake isn’t necessary.
Focus on nutrient-rich foods, ensuring adequate vitamins and minerals for both mother and baby. Weight gain is part of a healthy pregnancy, but balance is key.
Consult healthcare providers for personalized advice, and enjoy nutritious meals without overindulging. Pregnancy is about quality, not quantity, in dietary choices.
17. Cats Suck the Breath Out of Babies
This unsettling myth suggests cats pose a danger to infants by sucking their breath, but it’s false. Cats may be drawn to the warmth and scent of babies, leading to close proximity.
Supervise interactions to ensure safety, but rest assured that cats aren’t out to harm.
Encourage positive encounters, teaching pets to coexist with new family members. Cats and babies can share a harmonious home with proper guidance.
18. Lightning Never Strikes the Same Place Twice
Contrary to this belief, lightning can and does strike the same place more than once. Certain locations, like tall structures and open fields, are more prone to repeated strikes.
This myth likely arose from the randomness of lightning, but patterns and probabilities are better understood today.
Seek shelter during storms, avoiding tall or isolated structures. Lightning safety involves awareness, not assumptions about its behavior.
19. You Can Catch a Cold from Cold Weather
Colds are viral infections, not a result of cold weather. The belief may stem from colds being more common in winter, but this is due to indoor crowding and virus longevity in cold, dry air.
Dress warmly for comfort, but know that staying indoors with germs is the real risk.
Maintain good hygiene and social habits to reduce exposure to viral infections, no matter the temperature.
20. Watermelons Will Grow in Your Stomach if You Swallow the Seeds
The idea that watermelon seeds can sprout in your stomach is pure fiction. Stomach acid and the digestive process prevent any chance of growth.
Swallowing seeds is harmless, though some prefer to avoid them for texture reasons. Seedless varieties offer an alternative.
Enjoy watermelon freely, without fear of an internal garden. The sweet fruit is a refreshing treat, seeds and all!
21. Brushing Hair 100 Strokes a Day Makes It Healthier
The notion that brushing hair 100 strokes daily improves health is outdated. Over-brushing can lead to breakage and scalp irritation.
Regular gentle brushing distributes natural oils, promoting shine and reducing tangles, but moderation is key.
Focus on quality, not quantity, in hair care routines. Choose a suitable brush and technique for your hair type to maintain its health and appearance.
22. Reading from Screens Damages Eyes
Screen time can cause eye strain, but it doesn’t cause permanent damage. Known as digital eye strain, symptoms include dryness and fatigue.
Regular breaks and proper lighting can alleviate discomfort. Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
Keep screen interactions comfortable and mindful, supporting eye health without fear of lasting harm.
23. If You Cross Your Eyes, They Will Stay That Way
Crossing your eyes won’t make them stay that way. Eye muscles allow movement, and crossing them is harmless and temporary.
The myth likely serves as a caution against making silly faces, but there’s no truth to it.
Feel free to indulge in playful expressions. Eye health is maintained through regular care and not inhibited by occasional fun.
24. Bats Are Blind
The phrase “blind as a bat” is misleading. Bats have decent vision, although they rely heavily on echolocation to navigate.
Their unique adaptations enable them to hunt and fly in darkness, but sight is a secondary tool.
Appreciate bats for their ecological contributions, knowing they’re far from blind. Their nocturnal prowess is a testament to nature’s ingenuity.
25. Eating Ice Cream Leads to Nightmares
The belief that ice cream before bed causes nightmares lacks scientific support. While heavy meals might influence sleep, specific foods aren’t linked to bad dreams.
A balanced diet and sleep hygiene are more impactful on rest quality. Enjoy occasional evening treats mindfully.
Sweet dreams are more about routine than avoiding specific foods. Indulge sensibly, enjoying both ice cream and pleasant rest.
26. Toothpaste Clears Up Pimples
Using toothpaste on pimples is an old hack, but it’s not recommended. Toothpaste can irritate and dry the skin, causing more harm than good.
Skincare products designed for acne are safer and more effective. Maintaining a consistent skincare routine supports clearer skin.
Seek gentle, targeted treatments instead. Toothpaste is for teeth, not blemishes!
27. Goldfish Have a Three-Second Memory
The notion that goldfish have a three-second memory is false. Studies show they can remember information for months.
Goldfish can be trained to recognize feeding times and simple tasks, demonstrating their cognitive abilities.
Appreciate goldfish as intelligent pets, capable of learning and interaction. Their memory is far from fleeting!
28. Eating Crusts Makes Your Hair Curly
Eating bread crusts won’t curl your hair. This myth likely originated to encourage children to eat their crusts.
Hair texture is determined by genetics, not diet. Crusts contain nutrients, but they don’t alter hair type.
Enjoy your sandwich fully, knowing hair texture is a genetic trait. Embrace your unique hair as it is!
29. Plucking Gray Hairs Causes More to Grow
Plucking gray hairs won’t cause more to sprout. Hair color changes with age due to pigment cell loss.
While plucking doesn’t increase grayness, it can damage hair follicles over time.
Embrace aging gracefully, accepting gray hair as a natural part of life. Focus on healthy hair care rather than futile plucking.
30. Waking a Sleepwalker Can Harm Them
Waking a sleepwalker isn’t dangerous, but it might disorient them. Guiding them back to bed calmly is usually safer.
Sleepwalking is a sleep disorder, and ensuring safety is the priority.
If waking is necessary, do so gently. Protect your sleepwalker by creating a safe environment.
31. Chickens Can Live Without Their Heads
The idea of headless chickens persisting comes from rare occurrences like Mike the Headless Chicken.
Most chickens can’t survive headless, as it’s crucial for vital functions. Stories are often exaggerated or misunderstood.
Appreciate chickens as fascinating creatures with normal biological needs. Their persistence requires proper care and conditions.
32. Bulls Hate Red
Bulls are colorblind to red. Their reaction in bullfights is to movement, not color.
The myth persists from cultural depictions, but bulls respond to perceived threats rather than specific hues.
Respect animals for their natural behaviors, understanding the nuances of their vision.
33. Dogs’ Mouths Are Cleaner Than Humans’
The belief that dogs’ mouths are cleaner than humans’ is misleading. Both contain bacteria, some unique to each species.
Dog mouths can carry germs harmful to humans, though regular dental care aids hygiene.
Enjoy canine companionship, practicing good hygiene for both pets and people. Mutual care ensures health and happiness.
34. Eating Carrots Gives You Curly Hair
Carrots don’t influence hair texture; this myth likely encourages healthy eating in children.
Genetics determine hair type, not dietary choices like carrot consumption.
Enjoy carrots for their health benefits, knowing hair texture is a genetic gift. Eating them supports overall wellness, not hair curliness.
35. If You Pick Your Nose, Your Nose Will Get Bigger
Nose-picking won’t enlarge your nose, though it may lead to irritation or infections. The myth serves as a deterrent for the habit.
Keeping hands clean and avoiding nose-picking is advisable for hygiene and health.
Embrace cleanliness as a choice, not out of fear of physical changes. Healthful habits are about care, not consequences.
36. Cold Showers Cause Colds
Cold showers don’t cause colds—viruses do. The myth arises from misunderstanding exposure to cold temperatures.
Cold showers can invigorate and boost circulation, offering health benefits when tolerated.
Enjoy showers at your preferred temperature, knowing that colds come from germs, not chilly water.
37. Wearing Hats Indoors Causes Baldness
The notion that hats cause baldness is a hair-raising myth. Baldness is primarily influenced by genetics and hormones, not headwear. Wearing hats regularly can trap sweat and oils, but it won’t make your hair fall out permanently.
If you notice hair loss, it’s wise to explore other factors such as stress or diet. Hats are merely a fashion choice, not a follicular foe. Keep your head cozy or stylish without worrying about hairless repercussions.
Should you enjoy sporting a cap indoors, do so confidently, knowing it’s not contributing to hair loss. Focus on hair care practices that maintain healthy growth instead.
38. Sitting Too Close to the TV Damages Eyesight
Sitting close to the TV won’t harm eyesight, though it might cause temporary eye strain.
Advances in screen technology reduce risk, but breaks and proper lighting help eye comfort.
Enjoy TV time, adjusting distance and lighting for comfort, not out of fear of damage. Eye health is maintained through balance.
39. Eating Before Swimming Causes Cramps
The belief that eating before swimming causes cramps is exaggerated. While digestion redirects blood flow, moderate activity like swimming is usually safe.
Avoid heavy meals before intense exercise to prevent discomfort, but light snacks are typically harmless.
Swim and snack with balance in mind, understanding personal limits for maximum enjoyment.
40. Flushing Ice Cubes Down the Toilet Brings Snow
Flushing ice doesn’t influence the weather. This whimsical belief is a fun tradition, not a weather modification technique.
Weather is governed by complex meteorological factors, unaffected by household actions.
Join in the playful ritual for fun, knowing science shapes our climate. Celebrate snow safely when it arrives.
41. You Lose Most Heat Through Your Head
The idea that most body heat is lost through the head isn’t entirely accurate. Heat loss occurs from any uncovered area.
Covering the head aids warmth retention, similar to covering any exposed skin.
Dress warmly overall for best heat conservation. Headgear is part of comprehensive cold-weather gear, not the sole solution.
42. If You Drop Food on the Floor, You Have Five Seconds to Pick It Up Without Risk
The five-second rule is more myth than reality. Bacteria can transfer instantly to dropped food.
Surface type and cleanliness are more influential than time. Eating fallen food involves risk, regardless of retrieval speed.
Practice food safety, discarding items that contact unclean surfaces. Health consideration outweighs habit.
43. Sweeping at Night Calls Spirits
There’s an old superstition that sweeping your house after dark invites unwelcome spirits. The tale warns that the act of sweeping at night can stir up ghosts or bring bad luck. It originated centuries ago when people relied on daylight for chores, and nighttime was shrouded in mystery.
Many old tales are rooted in historical contexts, often serving to instill caution. Superstition aside, sweeping at night is no different than during the day—no spirits will materialize. For those concerned about curious phantoms, rest assured: your nighttime cleaning routine is perfectly safe.
44. Cutting Nails After Sunset Brings Misfortune
Some cultures believe that cutting your nails after sunset invites bad luck. This old belief stems from times when artificial lighting was scarce, and cutting nails in the dark risked injury. The tale, though persistent in some regions, lacks any real backing.
Despite this, many adhere to it, avoiding evening grooming habits. It’s a reminder of how traditions can linger.
The modern world, with its bright lights and safe tools, negates the risks once associated. Feel free to trim your nails whenever it’s convenient, without fear of misfortune.
45. Sneezing Means Someone Misses You
A charming tale suggests that if you sneeze unexpectedly, someone is thinking of or missing you. This belief is widespread across various cultures, often romanticized in films and literature.
While sneezing is a natural reflex, often due to irritants, the idea adds a whimsical layer to an otherwise mundane act.
No scientific truth supports this tale, but it does bring a smile. Next time you sneeze, consider it a fun myth rather than a cosmic connection. Enjoy the sneeze, and maybe check in with loved ones anyway.
46. Itchy Palms Predict Wealth
An old financial forecast claims that itchy palms indicate incoming wealth. Typically, an itchy right palm means money is coming, while an itchy left suggests money will be spent.
This tale persists, despite no scientific basis, and often varies by culture. Like many beliefs, it’s more a reflection of hope than reality. Scratching an itch certainly isn’t a sign of financial change.
However, if itchy palms bring thoughts of fortune, perhaps they serve as motivation to pursue wealth-building endeavors. Keep an eye on your finances regardless of any itches.
47. Walking Under a Ladder Invites Bad Luck
A classic superstition warns against walking under ladders, believed to bring bad luck. This originates from ancient symbolism and practical advice—triangular shapes representing life and balance, and the physical danger of falling objects.
Despite its shaky foundation in reality, some still sidestep ladders today. In truth, the risk lies in potential accidents, not fate. This tale combines practical safety with mystical thinking. Feel free to walk under ladders if the area is clear, but always be cautious of your surroundings, keeping safety in mind over superstition.
48. Giving a Knife as a Gift Cuts the Friendship
The idea that gifting a knife severs friendships is an old belief. Stemming from the symbolic potential of knives to cut, it suggests the end of relationships.
Though unfounded, this tale persists, with some choosing to exchange coins instead to ‘pay’ for the knife, thus avoiding the curse.
Cultural traditions often dictate these practices, serving as social glue. If you’re gifting a knife, consider including a penny, honoring tradition while understanding its irrational basis. Ultimately, true friendship withstands sharper challenges than a mere superstition.
49. Friday the 13th is Unlucky
Friday the 13th is famously considered an unlucky day, rooted in historical events and religious beliefs. The fear of ’13’ is called triskaidekaphobia, adding weight to this superstition.
Despite its notoriety, it’s just another day in reality. Accidents and mishaps happen any day, so attributing them to this date is pure chance.
Whether or not you fear this date, remember that luck is what you make of it. Enjoy your day, 13th or not, with a smile and perhaps a cautious eye on the calendar for fun.
50. Cats Crossing Your Path Brings Bad Luck
Cats, especially black ones, crossing your path is traditionally seen as a bad omen. This stems from medieval beliefs associating cats with witches and dark magic.
In reality, cats are independent creatures, often on their own agendas. The notion of them influencing luck is steeped in myth rather than fact. Superstitions can color perceptions, but cats crossing paths are often just on their way.
Embrace their mystique, but let logic lead. If you love cats, perhaps even consider it a sign of good fortune. Their grace deserves appreciation, not suspicion.