Ghana is famend for its wealthy cultural heritage and powerful conventional beliefs, lots of which have been handed down by means of generations.
These beliefs typically form perceptions about well being and wellness.
Nonetheless, a few of these broadly held views are primarily based on myths somewhat than scientific proof.
On this article, we debunk among the commonest well being myths in Ghana and supply the info supported by science.
1. Consuming ice-cold water causes pneumonia
Delusion: Many imagine that consuming chilly water can result in pneumonia or extreme respiratory points.
Reality: Pneumonia is brought on by infections from micro organism, viruses, or fungi, not by ingesting chilly water. Nonetheless, ingesting ice-cold water too rapidly could trigger throat discomfort, particularly for people with delicate throats.
2. Consuming too many eggs causes boils
Delusion: Some folks suppose that consuming eggs ceaselessly results in boils on the pores and skin.
Reality: Boils are brought on by bacterial infections, not by egg consumption. Eggs are, in actual fact, a wealthy supply of protein and important vitamins that assist general well being.
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3. Natural cures are at all times safer than Western drugs
Delusion: Traditional herbal medicines are sometimes perceived as pure and, due to this fact, safer than pharmaceutical medicine.
Reality: Whereas some herbs have confirmed medicinal advantages, others will be poisonous, work together with prescribed medicines, or lack correct dosage pointers, making them doubtlessly dangerous. At all times seek the advice of a healthcare skilled earlier than utilizing natural cures.
4. Sitting on a chilly floor causes piles (Haemorrhoids)
Delusion: Many imagine that sitting on chilly surfaces results in haemorrhoids.
Reality: Haemorrhoids end result from elevated strain within the veins across the rectum, typically on account of constipation, extended sitting, or straining throughout bowel actions—not from sitting on a chilly floor.
5. Palm oil causes coronary heart illness
Delusion: Some declare that palm oil is dangerous for the center and must be prevented.
Reality: Palm oil comprises each saturated and unsaturated fat. Whereas extreme consumption of saturated fat could contribute to coronary heart illness, average consumption of unprocessed (crimson) palm oil gives helpful vitamins like vitamin E and antioxidants.
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6. Sugar causes diabetes
Delusion: Consuming an excessive amount of sugar instantly causes diabetes.
Reality: Whereas extreme sugar consumption can contribute to weight acquire and insulin resistance, diabetes is brought on by a mix of genetic and life-style elements, together with poor weight-reduction plan, lack of train, and weight problems.
7. Consuming alcohol kills abdomen worms
Delusion: Some folks imagine that ingesting alcohol can remove intestinal worms.
Reality: Alcohol doesn’t kill worms within the abdomen. Correct deworming remedy, prescribed by a healthcare skilled, is the one efficient solution to remove intestinal parasites.
8. Sweating helps you lose fats immediately
Delusion: Many imagine that the extra you sweat, the extra fats you lose.
Reality: Sweating helps regulate physique temperature however doesn’t instantly burn fats. Weight reduction happens when the physique burns energy, primarily by means of bodily exercise and a balanced weight-reduction plan.