Some Hard Truths: 14 Common Beliefs Science Has Officially Disproven

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It’s no secret that our beliefs shape how we view the world around us.

We often cling to outdated notions and long-held truths, but what happens when science gets involved?

It turns out that some of our most common beliefs are proven wrong by scientific research and experimentation.

Here we’ll explore 14 deeply entrenched myths debunked by science and uncover the truth behind them.

Join us as we dive deep into the world of scientific knowledge to separate fact from fiction. You may just be surprised at what you find!

1. It Takes Seven Years to Digest Gum

girl chewing gum
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This fear is what parents use to scare their kids into not swallowing gum.

The reality is, your body cannot digest gum, even in seven years.

What happens is it passes through your digestive tract and you pass it when you go to the bathroom.

The only harm it can cause is if you swallow too much and it blocks your intestine.

2. The Great Wall of China Can Be Seen From The Moon

Woman at great wall of China
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The legend has it that the Great Wall of China is the only man-made structure that can be seen from the moon.

The truth is that it can’t be seen from the moon.

In fact, it can barely be seen from outer space.

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. 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!

5. 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. 

6. 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!

7. 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.

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
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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. Rinsing After Brushing Your Teeth

toothbrush
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If you are like most people, after you brush your teeth, you rinse your mouth with water.

But this is exactly the wrong thing to do.

You are not supposed to rinse, as the fluoride in the toothpaste on your teeth can then get to work keeping them strong.

When you rinse, you stop this from happening.

10. Limited Brain Capacity

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

11. 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.

12. 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.

13. The Food Pyramid

box of fresh vegetables

It turns out the food pyramid is a lie.

It was created by food manufacturers and the government signed off on it.

In reality, the correct food pyramid should be reversed so that fruits and vegetables should be on the bottom and bread on the top.

14. 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.

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

“OK Boomer” 20 Trends Millennials Refuse to Follow

woman shrugging
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Each generation has their own trends and quirks.

Sometimes, other generation catch on to be part of the club. But not always.

Here is a look at what Boomer trends the youth wants no part of.

BOOMER TRENDS THAT NEED TO GO AWAY

Boomers Unleashed: The Top 10 Most Annoying Behaviors They Can’t Stand

crazy housewife
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What do kids these days do that irritates Boomers the most?

Find out in this epic rant….er article.

IRRITATING BEHAVIORS BOOMERS CAN’T STAND

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