In the age of the internet, health advice is everywhere. While some of it is backed by science, a significant amount is rooted in misconceptions and myths. Believing these myths can not only lead to unnecessary stress but also negatively impact your well-being. Let’s set the record straight by debunking some of the most common health myths. Myth 1: You Should Drink Eight Glasses of Water a Day This myth likely stems from a misinterpretation of a recommendation from the 1940s, which stated that adults need about 2.5 liters of water daily. However, the original guideline also mentioned that much of this water comes from food and other beverages. In reality, your hydration needs vary depending on your activity level, climate, and diet. The best indicator? Trust your thirst. Myth 2: Carbs Are Bad for You Carbohydrates have gained a bad reputation, especially with the popularity of low-carb diets like keto. However, not all carbs are created equal. While refined carbs (like white bread and sugary snacks) can lead to health issues, complex carbs (found in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables) are essential for energy and overall health. Cutting out all carbs can deprive your body of crucial nutrients. Myth 3: Eating Fat Makes You Fat For decades, dietary fat was demonized as the primary cause of weight gain and heart disease. Today, research shows that healthy fats, such as those found in avocados, nuts, and olive oil, are vital for brain function, hormone regulation, and heart health. It’s excessive calorie consumptio not fat alone that leads to weight gain. Myth 4: Vaccines Can Cause Autism This myth originated from a now-discredited study published in 1998, which falsely linked the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine to autism. Numerous large-scale studies since then have found no connection between vaccines and autism. Vaccines are safe, rigorously tested, and critical for preventing life-threatening diseases. Myth 5: You Need to Detox Your Body with Cleanses Detox teas, juice cleanses, and other detox products promise to rid your body of toxins, but they’re largely unnecessary. Your liver and kidneys are incredibly efficient at eliminating waste and toxins from your body. Instead of spending money on cleanses, focus on maintaining a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and getting regular exercise. Myth 6: You Can Catch a Cold from Cold Weather Many people believe that being exposed to cold weather can make you sick. However, colds are caused by viruses, not the temperature. The reason colds are more common in winter is that people spend more time indoors in close proximity to others, increasing the likelihood of virus transmission. Myth 7: Natural Means Safe The term “natural” is often equated with safety, but this isn’t always the case. Many natural substances can be harmful or even deadly—think of poisonous plants like belladonna. Similarly, natural supplements are not always rigorously tested, and some can interact dangerously with medications or have side effects. Myth 8: Spot-Reducing Fat Is Possible Many fitness enthusiasts believe that doing exercises targeting specific areas, like crunches for belly fat, will reduce fat in those areas. Unfortunately, spot-reducing fat isn’t possible. Fat loss occurs throughout the body based on genetics and overall calorie expenditure, not from targeting specific muscle groups. Myth 9: Microwaving Food Destroys Nutrients Microwaves often get a bad reputation, but they’re actually one of the best cooking methods for preserving nutrients. Since microwaving cooks food quickly and with minimal water, it helps retain more vitamins and minerals compared to boiling or frying. Myth 10: Breakfast Is the Most Important Meal of the Day While breakfast can be important for some, especially children and those with specific health conditions, it isn’t universally critical. Intermittent fasting and other eating patterns have shown that skipping breakfast can be perfectly healthy for many people. Listen to your body and eat when you’re hungry. Final Thoughts Misinformation can be as harmful as poor health habits. By debunking these myths, we can make more informed decisions about our health. Always consult credible sources and healthcare professionals when in doubt. Remember, staying informed is the first step to staying healthy.

We recently tested the Mercedes-Benz CLE 200 Coupe, which impressed with its sleek design but left us wishing for more performance from its 2.0-litre engine. For those looking for more power, the new CLE 53 AMG takes things up a notch, offering a more aggressive and performance-oriented version of the original coupe. What Makes the CLE 53 AMG Special: The first thing you’ll notice about the CLE 53 AMG is its muscular appearance. It’s wider than the standard CLE, thanks to flared wheel arches and thicker tyres at the front and rear. The car features bold design elements, including a vertical-slat grille and a sporty lower front bumper. At the rear, prominent quad exhaust pipes and a black rear diffuser add to its menacing stance. Inside, the cabin has a more subtle sporty feel compared to the exterior. While it shares similarities with the regular CLE, AMG-specific touches set it apart. The sports bucket seats are snug, with yellow trimming adding a touch of flair. The digital instrument cluster and touchscreen infotainment system feature AMG-specific graphics, serving as constant reminders of the car's performance potential. Performance: Power with Refinement: The CLE 53 AMG doesn’t fall short on performance. Equipped with a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six engine, it delivers 443hp and 560Nm of torque. With the 4Matic all-wheel-drive system, it can accelerate from 0-100km/h in just 4.2 seconds. The engine is a mild hybrid, incorporating an electric motor that adds an additional 22hp to the total power output. This hybrid setup helps with efficiency, particularly during acceleration, but it also makes the driving experience feel less dramatic than you might expect from an AMG. While quick, the CLE 53 AMG feels more composed and controlled than outright thrilling. It accelerates smoothly and confidently, with a ride quality that leans towards comfort rather than aggressive sportiness. Despite its impressive performance features—such as adaptive dampers, rear-wheel steering, and selectable drive modes that adjust throttle response and suspension stiffness—the car’s performance remains smooth and predictable, without the excitement that typically defines an AMG. Its weight of nearly 1.8 tonnes means that while the CLE 53 AMG handles corners with confidence, it doesn’t offer the agility of smaller, lighter vehicles. Is the CLE 53 AMG Worth the Price: At a starting price of $466,888 with COE (as of January 2025), the Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 is a well-rounded and high-performing vehicle. It’s fast, comfortable, and a capable sports coupe. However, it’s not the type of AMG that enthusiasts may expect. Traditionally, AMGs are known for their loud, dramatic personalities, but the CLE 53 AMG takes a more refined approach. It’s a performance vehicle with a gentlemanly charm, rather than the wild, aggressive nature associated with the brand. For those seeking the classic, raucous AMG experience, this might not be the right choice. But for drivers who want a powerful yet refined daily driver with a bit more performance than the standard CLE, the CLE 53 AMG delivers. Disclaimer: This image is taken from AsiaOne/Ben Chia

Krithi Shetty’s love for long, dramatic eyelashes has struck a chord with beauty enthusiasts across the globe. In a recent Vogue Beauty Secrets video, the Telugu actor shared that she keeps an eyelash curler within arm’s reach on her bedside table. She also revealed that curling her lashes is an essential part of her routine, ensuring she never steps out without adding that extra flair to her look. Eyelash curlers are undeniably a game-changer for creating a striking, wide-eyed effect. However, could their regular use pose risks to your eyes or lashes? To delve deeper into the potential hazards of this beauty tool. Disclaimer:This image is taken from Instagram/Kirthi shetty.

Baba Ramdev, a prominent proponent of yoga and Ayurveda, recently claimed in an interview that he hasn’t fallen sick in 50 years. Speaking on Curly Tales’ YouTube channel, he credited his consistent yoga practice and natural lifestyle for this extraordinary feat. Ramdev emphasized that he doesn’t even touch allopathic medicines, asserting that they are unnecessary. He reflected on a childhood memory when he experienced a single bout of fever due to mosquito bites while living in a gurukul, but since then, he claims to have been entirely illness-free. According to him, human beings possess innate healing powers that can be unlocked through yoga and a natural lifestyle. To further illustrate his point, Ramdev recounted his visit to the China border, where he endured extreme temperatures of -20°C wearing his traditional orange outfit. “Yoga has power,” he said, describing how strength, energy, and even body heat come from within. He dismissed the need for allopathic medicines by noting that people survived without them 200 years ago, living in harmony with nature. While his claims resonate with many followers of holistic health practices, they have also sparked skepticism and debate within the medical community. Experts in modern medicine, however, caution against dismissing allopathy entirely. Dr. Jagadish Hiremath, a public health intellectual, stated that while yoga and natural lifestyles can enhance overall health, complete immunity from illness is unrealistic. He highlighted that immune responses are influenced by various factors, including genetics and environmental conditions, and even the healthiest individuals are susceptible to occasional illnesses. Similarly, Dr. Sanjay Gupta, an internal medicine specialist, emphasized the irreplaceable role of allopathy in emergencies and the treatment of acute and chronic illnesses. He argued that modern medicine has saved countless lives with evidence-based interventions like antibiotics and chemotherapy. Modern lifestyles expose individuals to pollutants, pathogens, and stressors that can overwhelm even robust immune systems. Practices like yoga can reduce stress, improve circulation, and boost immunity, making them effective preventive tools. However, as Dr. Hiremath pointed out, they cannot entirely replace modern medical treatments for severe conditions such as infections, cancer, or organ failure. While Ayurveda offers valuable herbal remedies and supports overall well-being, it lacks the standardization and clinical evidence that underpin allopathy’s reliability. Experts agree that a holistic approach combining traditional practices and modern medicine is ideal. Yoga and Ayurveda can effectively manage stress, chronic pain, and mild conditions, while allopathy is indispensable for life-threatening illnesses. Claims that dismiss one system in favor of the other are considered extreme and potentially misleading. As Dr. Gupta remarked, “Modern medicine has successfully treated complex conditions like cancer. Managing simpler diseases is far less challenging in comparison, making such claims baseless.” The dialogue underscores the importance of integrating both approaches for comprehensive health care. Disclaimer:This image is taken from Express file Photo.

A recent accident in Tampines that claimed two lives has sparked concerns about Singapore's driving habits. Persistent issues like speeding, running red lights, and drink driving remain significant challenges. Bernard Tay, Chairman of the Singapore Road Safety Council, and Julian Kho, General Manager at Sgcarmart, share their insights with Steven Chia and Crispina Robert on the changes needed to improve road safety. Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from CNA.

Some instances of parent-child estrangement arise from a difficult or traumatic upbringing. However, for some parents, it comes as a painful surprise, as they believed they did their best. Gaby Hinsliff explores stories from both sides of these family divides. Disclaimer: This podcats is taken from The Guardian.

Daniel Martin engages in a discussion with Dr. Leong Hoe Nam, an Infectious Diseases Physician at Rophi Clinic, located in Mount Elizabeth Novena Specialist Centre, about human metapneumovirus and measures you can take to avoid infection. Disclaimer:This podcast is taken from CNA.

For those who drink regularly, studies suggesting that moderate alcohol consumption leads to a longer life than complete abstinence can be reassuring. However, a new analysis disputes this idea, arguing that it is rooted in flawed research comparing drinkers to individuals who are abstinent due to health issues. In an August episode, Madeleine Finlay speaks with Tim Stockwell, the lead author of the analysis and a scientist at the Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research at the University of Victoria, to explore why researchers, including himself, previously believed in this notion and to uncover the true risks associated with alcohol consumption. Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from The Guardian.