The wisdom from our parents’ generation is often passed down, whether it is true or not. One particular area that is common to myths is parenting. While many of these myths turn out to be old wives’ tales, there are some that have been proved by science over the years. Here are some old myths that were once discredited but have since been proved by science.
As a child, do you remember staying home sick from school and sipping on chicken noodle soup? While you may not have thought this was a cure for the cold, it provided soothing relief. However, it turns out there is some science behind this myth. Chicken soup has been proven to slow down white blood cell activity that causes inflammation. Therefore, while it may not exactly cure your child’s cold, it can help them feel better.
Everyone has heard this parenting myth, and many have added that the only way it works is if you throw it at the doctor! However, it turns out that our parents may have been on the right track. In addition to being high in Vitamin C, which benefits the immune system, apples are a great source of phenolic, which is a type of antioxidant. This antioxidant has been shown in several studies to reduce the number of free radicals in the body, thus preventing breast cancer, colon cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, and more.
Myth #3: Hot Tap Water is Bad
Who would have thought that the hot tap and cold tap could be better or worse for children to drink? This theory was discredited at first until science considered the lead found in the water pipes of home. The problem with lead is that hot water is more likely to dissolve contaminants quickly, so that they leach into the water. Additionally, boiling water does not remove the lead- it increases its concentration.
Myth #4: Eating the Crust of the Bread is Good for You
Eating the crust of the bread and eating your vegetables seem to go hand in hand. Our parents likely told us that it would put hair on your chest, help you grow big and strong, or some other tale to encourage us to eat the crusts. It turns out, however, that this may be based on fact. The crusty part of the bread may contain eight times the amount of antioxidants found in the rest of the loaf.
Myth #5: Eating Fish Will Make You Smarter
This is another myth passed on through the generations that turned out to be true. The science behind this is that fish contains fish oils, including omega-3 and omega-6. These are fatty acids have been proven to help with the growth, development, and function of a healthy brain. Some studies have even shown that a diet high in these types of oils can improve function at school. As an added benefit, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids can improve coordination, reduce inflammation in the joints and blood vessels, and protect against Alzheimer’s disease, coronary heart disease, and rheumatoid arthritis.
There might have been some myths that came to mind while reading this, that you as a child grew up on. You may have even carried them over into your own child’s life. However, we sometimes say whatever we can to get our little ones to eat certain foods, it is smart to do your research and know if what you’re saying is beneficial, health-wise. There are numerous sources on the internet (though, you can’t believe everything you read) to refer to for answers. You can even ask the doctor the next time you take your child to a pediatrician, like Night Lite, to clear up any confusion you may have.
