Myths or Facts concept with business woman hand drawing on blackboard

Most of us have grown up hearing a few old wives’ tales like – cracking your knuckles will give you arthritis; if you swallow gum it’ll stay in your stomach for seven years; when you make a silly face and the wind changes, you’ll be stuck like that forever.  

These myths still exist because there are some people who still believe them, and this is also true when it comes to misconceptions around food.  

We’ve looked at three common food myths which aren’t exactly the whole truth.  

Eggs are high in cholesterol  

You’ll be forgiven for thinking that eggs are high in cholesterol because for years that’s what we were told, but recent research suggests that the amount of cholesterol in eggs, specifically egg yolks, has a minimal effect especially if you are eating a healthy and balanced diet.  

Read – Fact of Fiction: Are eggs good for you?

In fact, eggs are a cheap source of many nutrients, including zinc and iron, antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin, vitamin D, and the brain-boosting chemical choline. Healthy eating guidelines suggest a person can consume between seven and 12 eggs a week.  

If you’re worried about your cholesterol levels, you should monitor the amount of saturated fat in your diet. 

Apples keep your teeth clean  

It’s a widely held belief that eating an apple is like cleaning your teeth but is there any truth to it?  

Research suggests this ‘myth’ may have some facts attached because the fibrous consistency of apples has been shown to stimulate gums and remove plaque and food debris from teeth.  

However, while apples may be beneficial for gum health, eating one is certainly not a substitute for brushing and flossing.  

Frozen fruit is not as healthy as fresh  

This is one of the most common food myths which many people still believe despite studies showing that it’s not true.  

In fact, frozen fruits and vegetables are often a healthier option than fresh because many of them have been ‘flash frozen’ within a few hours of being picked, which locks in their goodness and nutritional benefits.  

By contrast, ‘fresh’ fruit has usually spent a considerable amount of time being transported to the shop, and then sitting on the shelf for weeks after it’s been picked. Frozen fruit is also often cheaper and easier to store.  

 Sources: Reader’s Digest / Sheerluxe / Business Insider