Myth busters: Find out what’s false
- posted: 04 Oct. 2007
- scrollspecial@byui.edu
Whether as a child or an adult, we’ve all heard various medical myths in our lifetimes. However plausible or logical they may seem, not all of them are as truthful as they may appear. Misconceptions in medical science happen more then one might think, so this semester, don’t be fooled by fiction.
Feed a fever, starve a cold
False.
There is no scientific data to back up the claim, despite an attempt in 2002 by Dutch scientists to bring merit to the myth. The best way to handle a cold or fever is rest, liquids and medicine from your local pharmacy.
Swallowed gum digests in seven years
False.
Most of the ingredients that make up gum are actually easily digested by a human’s digestion tract. However, the base itself is not broken down, but passed through the digestive tract whole. Considering pieces of gum are generally small, even swallowed gum will pass through your intestines within a few day, unless you’re swallowing large amounts of gum daily.
Yawning is contagious
True.
Many scientists, including University of Albany’s Dr. Gordon Gallup, now believe that yawning is triggered by a person’s empathy, or understanding of another’s feelings. Other theories include ideas of unconscious behavior. Nevertheless, studies show only about half of adults are susceptible to contagious yawning. So, while doctors and scientists are not entirely sure why, contagious yawning is tentatively a fact.
To stop hiccups, have someone scare you
True.
Diaphragm spasms, or hiccups, have always been associated with unique and interesting cures, most of which will work depending upon your personal preferences. Scaring yourself, getting a drink of water, standing on your head, thinking of a word and all the others will actually help. Why? The real reason these methods work is because you’re distracting yourself from the spasm, and diverting your attention away from it. So while saying ‘pineapple’ or ‘haystack’ in your head, thinking if you have ever seen a fully white horse and having your roommate jump out at you are not scientifically proven as a hiccup ‘cure’, they’re perfectly effective. 
