Latest news with #Fact-checkFriday
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Business Standard
a day ago
- Health
- Business Standard
From dandruff to diet, here are 16 myths about balding in men, women busted
Wait… am I actually going bald? You've just spotted a few extra hairs on your pillow. Or maybe the parting in your hair seems a bit wider than before. Panicking? We get it. Hair loss, especially in your 20s or 30s, can be confusing and intimidating. And with every Google search or Instagram reel comes a flood of 'advice' that's often more myth than medicine. This week on Fact-check Friday, we're tackling some of the most common myths about balding in both men and women, with expert insights from Dr Rajesh Verma, Senior Consultant, Dermatology at Amrita Hospital, Faridabad. Myth: Only men lose hair Fact: That's one of the biggest misconceptions. While male pattern baldness is more common and visible, women also experience hair thinning and even balding, often due to hormonal changes, genetics, or medical conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), explained Dr Verma. 'Yes, it looks different… like diffuse thinning instead of receding hairlines, but it's real, and it's more common than you think,' he said. Myth: Balding only happens to older men Fact: 'Hair loss can start in your late teens or early 20s, especially if there's a family history,' said Dr Verma. For young people, this can be an unexpected hit to self-confidence. But early awareness means you can also act early. Myth: Wearing hats causes baldness Fact: This one's persistent and false. Wearing hats doesn't cause hair loss. 'Your hair follicles don't get suffocated or rubbed off by caps, helmets, or beanies. So go ahead and protect yourself from the sun or a bad hair day,' Dr Verma reassured. Myth: Shampooing too often causes hair loss Fact: Not exactly. 'What you see going down the drain is mostly hair already in the natural shedding phase. However, aggressive scrubbing or harsh products can cause breakage. That's not true balding, but mechanical damage,' said Dr Verma. Be gentle with your scalp, especially if you're washing daily. Myth: Dandruff directly causes major hair loss Fact: 'Seborrheic dermatitis (dandruff) is a common scalp condition that can cause itching and flaking, but it rarely leads to significant hair loss. If you're scratching excessively or there's severe inflammation, that might contribute to breakage, but dandruff itself isn't the villain,' said Dr Verma. Myth: Once hair starts falling, it'll all be gone quickly Fact: Hair loss is usually gradual. And early treatment (like using minoxidil or adjusting your diet) can slow it down or stabilise it significantly. 'You don't wake up bald overnight,' Dr Verma said. Myth: Shaving your head makes hair grow back thicker Fact: It might look that way because of the blunt ends, but no, shaving doesn't affect the root, thickness, or growth rate of your hair. Myth: Hair loss is caused by poor scalp circulation Fact: 'If you're otherwise healthy, your scalp gets enough blood flow. Hair loss is typically genetic and hormonal, not due to blood circulation,' said Dr Verma. Myth: Diet has no impact on hair loss Fact: Iron, protein, vitamin B12, and vitamin D deficiencies can contribute to hair thinning. 'Think of your hair as a mirror of your nutrition. A poor diet may not cause genetic baldness, but it can make it worse,' explained Dr Verma. Myth: Nothing can be done about baldness Fact: According to Dr Verma, from FDA-approved treatments like minoxidil and finasteride to advanced therapies like Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) and hair transplants, you have options. Myth: Stress is the main cause of male pattern baldness Fact: Stress can cause temporary hair shedding (like telogen effluvium). But male pattern baldness is primarily genetic, not emotional. Myth: Hair loss means you're unhealthy Fact: Not necessarily. 'Underlying issues like thyroid disorders, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), or anaemia can lead to hair loss. But not all hair loss is due to illness—sometimes it's just your genes doing their thing,' explained Dr Verma. Myth: Natural oils and DIY remedies can reverse baldness Fact: They can soothe your scalp or improve hair texture, but they cannot regrow hair lost due to genetic balding. So while coconut oil smells great, don't expect it to bring back your hairline. Myth: Bald scalp doesn't need sun protection Fact: 'A bald or thinning scalp is highly prone to sunburn, and worse, skin cancer. Cover up with a hat or use SPF regularly,' warned Dr Verma. Myth: Wearing wigs or extensions causes balding Fact: 'Not always, but tight styles, heavy extensions, or frequent wear can lead to traction alopecia—a form of permanent hair loss from stress on the follicles,' said Dr Verma. Choose gentle methods and give your scalp breaks. Myth: Hair loss is always permanent Fact: No. Some types of hair loss are completely reversible, especially when treated early. 'Conditions like telogen effluvium, postpartum shedding, or even alopecia areata can respond well to medical care,' Dr Verma said. Dr Verma asserted that one should not get hopeless if they start experiencing hair loss. 'If you've been obsessing over every strand on your comb, breathe. Hair loss is complex, but it's not a dead end,' he said. Have more questions or personal hair struggles? Drop us an email for next week's Fact-check Friday. We've got your back (and your scalp). For more health updates, follow #HealthWithBS
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Business Standard
01-08-2025
- Health
- Business Standard
Can juice fast really detox your body? Here's what doctors want you to know
Fact-check Friday: Juice cleanses promise detox, weight loss, and instant energy, but are they truly effective or just hyped-up health myths? Barkha Mathur New Delhi 'Three-day juice fast challenge', 'green juice detoxes', 'seven-day juice reset', and 'glow-up juice detox' have become popular health trends on social media, often touted as a quick fix to 'reset' the body, shed excess weight, or undo days of unhealthy eating. Promoted by influencers and wellness brands, these fasts promise benefits that sound appealing, especially to those seeking easy health hacks. But behind the viral appeal lies a growing concern among medical experts: many of these claims are scientifically unproven, misleading, and in some cases, potentially harmful. In this edition of Fact-check Friday, we unpack the truth behind juice cleanse myths with insights from Dr Mohit Sharma, Senior Consultant, Internal Medicine at Amrita Hospital, Faridabad. Myth 1: Juice fasts detox your body Fact: Your body already has a built-in detox system called your liver and kidneys. 'They do the detoxing job 24x7. You don't need expensive juices for that,' said Dr Sharma. So, before you drop thousands on a fancy cleanse, remember your organs are already doing the work for free. Myth 2: Juice fasts lead to sustainable weight loss Fact: You'll probably see the number on the scale drop, but don't celebrate just yet. 'It's mostly water weight,' Dr Sharma explained. Once you start eating normally again, it usually comes right back. Long-term weight loss doesn't come in a bottle—it comes from consistent, balanced eating and movement. Myth 3: Juice is as nutritious as whole fruits and vegetables Fact: 'When you juice, you strip out the fibre and sometimes even the nutrients,' said Dr Sharma. What you're left with is mostly sugar. Eating the whole fruit or vegetable—with skin and pulp—offers far more nutritional benefits and keeps your digestion on track. Myth 4: Juice fasting gives your digestive system a 'break' Fact: Your digestive system isn't a tired employee that needs time off. In fact, ' Your gut thrives on fibre, and juice doesn't have any,' explained Dr Sharma. Skipping fibre may actually make digestion sluggish over time. Myth 5: Juice fasts cure chronic diseases Fact: There's zero scientific evidence to back that up. 'Extreme diets like juice cleanses can even worsen conditions like diabetes or kidney disease,' warned Dr Sharma. If you're managing a chronic illness, always consult a doctor—don't rely on juice to be your medicine. Myth 6: Juice gives you more energy Fact: You may feel a temporary boost, but it's usually a sugar high. 'Juices are mostly simple sugars. After the initial spike, you'll likely feel even more tired,' said Dr Sharma. Energy levels are better maintained with protein, healthy fats, and complex carbs—not just sugar-laden sips. Myth 7: Juice fasts are safe for everyone Fact: 'They can be risky, especially for children, pregnant women, older adults, or people with existing health conditions,' cautioned Dr Sharma. Just because it's natural doesn't mean it's safe for all. Myth 8: Drinking juice is the same as eating a salad Fact: 'A salad has fibre and keeps you full. Juice? Not so much,' Dr Sharma said. It may taste refreshing, but it won't keep your hunger at bay for long. Myth 9: All juices are healthy Fact: Some are loaded with sugar, preservatives, and additives. 'Even cold-pressed ones can be high in natural sugars and low in actual nutrition,' said Dr Sharma. Read those labels carefully. Myth 10: Feeling weak or dizzy during a juice fast means it's working Fact: No, that's a red flag. Weakness often means your blood sugar is crashing or you're running low on vital nutrients. 'Feeling dizzy or tired isn't a sign of healing—it's your body crying out for help,' Dr Sharma said. Myth 11: Juice fasts boost your metabolism Fact: Ironically, the opposite is true. 'When your calorie intake drops too low, your metabolism slows down to conserve energy,' explained Dr Sharma. Long-term, this can make weight management even harder. Myth 12: Juice cleanses reset your DNA or cells Fact: That's just well-packaged pseudoscience. 'No juice can reset your genes or heal your cells. It's a fancy claim without medical basis,' said Dr Sharma. True cellular health comes from regular, balanced nutrition—not quick fixes. Myth 13: Juice fasts are a spiritual or mental clarity shortcut Fact: Any mental clarity you feel might come from taking a break from caffeine, junk food, or decision fatigue—not from the juice itself. 'It's not magic—just temporary lifestyle changes,' Dr Sharma notes. Myth 14: A 3-day juice cleanse is enough to undo months of bad eating Fact: Unfortunately, no. 'If only it were that simple,' Dr Sharma said. Real health doesn't come from occasional punishment. It comes from daily, sustainable habits—even small ones. Myth 15: Doctors and nutritionists recommend juice fasts Fact: Most don't. 'We recommend balanced meals, not quick fixes. Fads fade, healthy habits last,' Dr Sharma emphasised. Juice isn't evil—but it's not a magic elixir either. Instead of chasing a detox trend, focus on eating whole foods, staying active, and listening to your body. That's the real reset.
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Business Standard
04-07-2025
- Health
- Business Standard
Think sugar causes diabetes? These 15 myths could be risking your health
Is fruit bad for diabetes? Can you reverse it with lemon water? Do sugar-free foods help? In this edition of Fact-check Friday, we bust the 15 biggest diabetes myths that still trip people up. With insights from top doctors, this video sets the record straight so you can take control of your health—with facts, not fear. ????⚕️ Featuring Dr Manisha Arora & Dr Ajay Agarwal
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Business Standard
26-06-2025
- Health
- Business Standard
Fact-Check: Are These Instagram Fitness Fads Backed by Science?
From moon-charged water to 100 Surya Namaskars a day—your Instagram feed is bursting with fitness trends. But do they actually work? Or are we sipping on pseudoscience? Welcome to Fact-check Friday, where we decode viral fitness claims with real doctors and experts. ACV has a fan club on social media—claimed to balance hormones and torch fat. But experts say: not quite. It may slow sugar spikes and help PCOS a little, but it's no miracle elixir.
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Business Standard
13-06-2025
- Health
- Business Standard
From ghee to breastfeeding: Indian doctors bust new motherhood myths
'You mustn't bathe for a week after delivery.' 'Eat lots of ghee to regain strength.' 'Small breasts mean less milk.' If you're a new mother—or know someone who is—you've probably heard advice like this from well-meaning relatives, neighbours, or WhatsApp forwards. In this week's Fact-check Friday, we tackle common myths Indian mothers still face after childbirth. From breastfeeding and diet to baby care and postpartum recovery, we asked top doctors to separate fact from fiction—so you don't fall for outdated or unscientific advice. Myth: Eating the placenta after birth boosts recovery and milk supply It may sound bizarre, but some believe that eating the placenta improves postpartum healing and lactation. According to Dr Kinjal Avdhut Kothari and Dr Manasa G V, Associate Consultants – Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Manipal Hospital Goa, there is no strong scientific evidence supporting this practice. In fact, it may pose risks like infections. A balanced diet and rest are far safer and more effective. Myth: New mothers should avoid bathing for days after delivery This belief stems from the fear of catching a cold or disrupting recovery. However, Dr Parul Prakash, Senior Consultant and Head – Reproductive Medicine, IVF, Artemis Hospital, says gentle bathing is not only safe but essential for hygiene. Dr Manasa G V adds that avoiding baths may delay wound healing and increase infection risk. Use mild soap and warm water—but do bathe. Myth: Colostrum is harmful and should be discarded before breastfeeding Absolutely not. Colostrum—the thick yellow first milk—is rich in antibodies and nutrients. Often called 'liquid gold', it builds newborn immunity. Discarding it deprives the baby of essential protection. Doctors strongly recommend feeding colostrum from birth. Myth: Ghee, panjiri and high-calorie foods are essential after childbirth Traditional foods like ghee and panjiri can support recovery—but only in moderation. 'Too much can lead to unnecessary weight gain and digestive issues,' says Dr Kothari. A balanced, nutrient-rich diet is more beneficial than excess calories without value. Myth: Mothers and babies must stay indoors for 40 days to avoid illness or evil eye This tradition is based on cultural beliefs. Medically, the first six weeks postpartum is indeed a period of higher vulnerability to infections. However, with good hygiene and precautions, short outings are safe—and can support mental well-being. Myth: Mothers with cold or fever should not breastfeed their babies Wrong. 'Breastfeeding during mild illness is not just safe but beneficial,' says Dr Prakash. The mother passes protective antibodies to the baby. Wear a mask to reduce transmission risk and consult a doctor if taking medication. Myth: Small breasts can't produce enough milk Breast size does not determine milk production. 'Milk supply depends on hormones and feeding frequency,' explain doctors. Women with smaller breasts can breastfeed just as successfully as others. Myth: Shaving a baby's head promotes thicker hair growth This belief is widespread but false. Hair growth and texture are genetic. Shaving the baby's head won't influence thickness or quality, so it's entirely optional. Myth: C-section deliveries prevent proper breastfeeding While there may be a short delay in milk flow after a C-section, breastfeeding is absolutely possible. With proper support, most mothers nurse successfully. Formula may be used temporarily until lactation is established. Myth: Babies must be woken every two hours for feeding In the first few weeks, waking for feeds may support weight gain. 'Once the baby is growing steadily, longer sleep is fine,' says Dr Prakash. Frequent feeding also helps prevent engorgement and supports milk supply. Myth: Drinking water while breastfeeding causes colic in the baby There's no evidence to support this. Hydration is crucial for milk production and overall maternal health. Water does not cause colic—drink freely. Myth: Only hot foods are safe during postpartum recovery Not true. 'Both warm and cool foods can be part of a healthy postpartum diet,' says Dr Kothari. The focus should be on easy-to-digest, nutrient-dense meals. Avoid restrictive food rules unless medically necessary. Myth: Pacifiers cause dental issues and speech delays in babies Pacifiers are generally safe when used moderately and for limited timeframes. Problems arise with overuse or continued use beyond toddlerhood. Keep pacifiers clean and phase them out as advised by your doctor. Myth: It's unsafe or taboo to resume sex within a few months of delivery There's no scientific reason to delay intimacy once the mother feels ready—physically and emotionally. This is typically around six weeks postpartum, but it varies. Communication and comfort are key. Myth: Strong massage is needed to strengthen a newborn's bones Not at all. Gentle massage supports bonding and relaxation, but strong pressure can harm a baby's delicate body. Always use light strokes and mild oils. Other myths to be aware of Dr Manasa G V also flags beliefs like covering the ears with cotton, sitting cross-legged to reduce bloating, or using postpartum belts to shrink belly fat. 'Belts offer support, but they don't reduce fat. The other habits have no scientific basis,' she says. Motherhood brings joy—and a flood of advice. But not all of it is helpful. Stick to science, prioritise hygiene, balanced nutrition, rest and mental well-being, and trust your instincts. When in doubt, ask a doctor—not a WhatsApp group.
