Medical Myths, Lies, and Half-Truths: What We Think We Know May Be Hurting Us

In Dr. Novella's introductory episode, discover the importance of debunking medical myths and learn tips on where to seek out solid, medically backed information. Then, get a taste of the episodes to come by unpacking common myths about hiccups, sneezing, swallowing gum, curing a hangover, and swimming after eating.

Water is the most basic element of life. And yet there are many misconceptions about keeping your body hydrated. How exactly do our bodies regulate water? How much water should you really drink every day? Are expensive bottles of water and water purifiers worth the cost?

You cannot overdose on vitamins. Organically grown food is more nutritious than traditionally grown food. Everyone should take vitamin supplements, and the more the better. These are some of the many myths and half-truths you investigate in this episode on vitamin use and nutritional health.

More than any other component of health, dieting is the area most prone to myths and misinformation. Here, evaluate the veracity of everything from the benefits of low-carb and low-fat diets to the use of weight-loss supplements and intense workouts to the nature of "good" and "bad" fats.

Natural isn't always better for you, as Dr. Novella demonstrates by guiding you through some common fallacies about the "natural foods" you can find in almost any grocery store around the world. These include how such foods are cultivated, how they're labeled and sold, and how they're prepared and consumed.

There are billions of bacteria around and inside your body, and some of them are actually beneficial to your health. Explore the truths behind probiotics: what they are, whether they help with issues like tooth decay and irritable bowel syndrome, and the future possibilities of genetically engineered bacteria.