Staying Healthy
Debunking common wellness myths
Let's tease out the truth of health advice touted as "facts."
- Reviewed by Toni Golen, MD, Editor in Chief, Harvard Women's Health Watch; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing; Contributor
Some tried-and-true wellness guidance we can spot a mile away: get enough sleep, move your body regularly, and eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, for starters. But social media now pummels us with so-called health advice at such a rapid pace it can be difficult to know what to heed — and what to ignore.
Much of it is of dubious value. But the reason this counsel is confusing is that many wellness myths contain a grain of truth, says Dr. Leonor Fernandez, a primary care doctor at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
About the Author
Maureen Salamon, Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch
About the Reviewer
Toni Golen, MD, Editor in Chief, Harvard Women's Health Watch; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing; Contributor
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.