Myth Busted: 10 Widely Held Beliefs That Science Has Refuted

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When it comes to scientific findings, you might think that what’s accepted as truth today is set in stone.

After all, if the experts have weighed in and published the results of their experiments and research, we should take those facts as absolute.

But science doesn’t work that way; no matter how often an idea is believed or parroted by people claiming certain “facts,” no information is safe from being refuted in later studies—which can make for some very interesting outcomes indeed!

If you’re looking to challenge your understanding of the world by reading about some period-old myths debunked by more recent scientific evidence, read on.

These 10 widely held beliefs prove just how wrong you can be.

1. Shave It Off

Woman shaving face
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Waxing can be expensive and painful, but shaving is an excellent alternative. However, many mention shying away from this method due to the belief it causes hair to come back longer and thicker.

Science proves this is a sham. Also, the hair only momentarily feels sharp due to its growing phase. If you’re on the fence about doing it, remember it won’t turn you into a werewolf! 

2. Bread For The Ducks: A Tragic Misconception

Homemade banana bread on rustic wooden table.
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It is a scene straight out of heaven. A beautiful pond, vibrant blue sky, and ducks quacking away as people feed them bread. But hold on!

Scientific evidence proves this seemingly harmless activity can harm our feathery friends. Unfortunately, numerous people think they are doing those little creatures a favor, not knowing that feeding bread can cause malnutrition.

3. Sugar Rush: The Myth of Hyperactive Kids

happy mother and daughter eating crackers at home
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Remember when your elders told you consuming candy can make you go wild like the Tasmanian devil?

A forum member explains why this is not the case. Multiple studies have proved no connection between sugar consumption and hyperactivity in kids. 

4. The Sound of Satisfaction

cracking knuckles
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Cracking your knuckles might be one of the most satisfying feelings ever. But often, individuals mention how they are shamed when they do so.

While people believe doing so can lead to arthritis and chubby fingers, it’s entirely false. Science proves it is just trapped air being released. Free the knuckle crackers!

5. Lightning Doesn’t Discriminate

Lightning in sky
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It is commonly thought that lightning will never strike a place more than once.

This is untrue! Scientific evidence proves it can and will strike a site multiple times, especially if it is a tall building.

6. Memory Deficient Goldfish

Cat and gold fish in bowl
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How often have you heard the phrase, “You have the memory of a goldfish?” While these tiny creatures are infamous for their three-second memory, it is, in reality, not true.

They can retain information for up to many months. As proof of this, one user mentions their goldfish gets excited whenever it sees them.

7. Rookie Numbers

Deep focus of Huntsman spider resting on old tree bark
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Do you ever get haunted by the thought that you have swallowed eight spiders in your lifetime? Well, fear not!

Science has proved these creatures are clever enough not to crawl in your mouth while you sleep, and even if they did, your gag reflexes would push them out. Plus, our mouths aren’t the comfiest homes for spiders anyway. 

8. The Misunderstood Seasoning

Monosodium glutamate (MSG ), ingredients in wooden spoon and words " MSG " with medical stethoscope isolated on the wood table background. Unhealthy food concept. Top view. Flat lay
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

MSG – the three-letter word that has caused havoc in the food industry. While many believe it causes bloating, cramps, and nausea, research says otherwise.

As several forum members share, MSG is just a fancy word for a salt and glutamate concoction. It’s used to enhance flavor. So ahead and enjoy that Chinese takeout without any guilt!

9. X-Ray Vision

Child having carrot
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You may want to stop if you have been munching carrots like a rabbit to improve your eyesight.

As folks highlight, while carrots are an excellent source of Vitamin A, they won’t reverse the damage that’s been done. So, if you want that 6/6 (20/20) sight back, contact your nearest eye specialist.

10. Limited Brain Capacity

Side portrait of handsome caucasian busiessman in glasses with glowing digital brain on gray background. Artificial mind concept
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

One individual mentions how many people still believe humans only use 10% of their brain’s capacity. It’s like saying you only use one-third of a traffic light.

The truth is that all existing evidence shows that people use 100% of their brains daily. 

61 Fun Money Facts

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Did you know there are places you can pay for things using a special local currency? Do you know why some coins have ridges on the sides? Discover over 60 fun money facts that you didn’t know.

61 FUN MONEY FACTS YOU DIDN’T KNOW

Best Places To Hide Money At Home

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Did you know there are many places around your house you can hide cash?

Many of these places, no one will ever think to look, making them excelling hiding spots.

THE BEST PLACES TO HIDE MONEY AROUND YOUR HOUSE

How To Get Free Money

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The idea of free money sounds like it can’t be true. But it actually is.

There are many ways you can get free money, from playing games, to watching videos, and more.

Here are the best ways you can get free money without having to work for it.

HOW TO GET FREE MONEY

Binge Worthy Movies And Documentaries About Money

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Do you enjoy movies and documentaries? If so, here are the best ones that are related to money.

All of them will keep your attention from start to finish, and who knows, you might actually learn something too!

21 BINGE WORTHY MOVIES AND DOCUMENTARIES ABOUT MONEY

Cash Stuffing Budget

cash stuffing envelope budget
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Cash stuffing is a trendy budgeting method that makes better use of the envelope system.

By using cash, you not only avoid debt, but you have greater control over how you spend money.

Find out why so many people have fallen in love with it.

CASH STUFFING 101

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