Myth: Kiwi relieves constipation
Kiwi, in addition to its wonderful taste and unique aroma, is a valuable source of nutrients that can help combat chronic constipation. Scientific research confirms that this fruit has a strong laxative effect without causing abdominal discomfort.
Chronic constipation is a serious disease that affects a large proportion of the population in developed countries. Various factors contribute to its occurrence, including a lack of fiber and fluid in the diet, a sedentary lifestyle and stress. In the fight against this disease, it is important to pay attention to the diet and include in it foods that have laxative properties.
Kiwi is ideal in this case due to its high soluble fiber content. This type of fiber is easily digested and promotes healthy intestinal microflora, which helps normalize digestion and facilitate stool elimination. Regular consumption of kiwi can help reduce the risk of chronic constipation and improve your quality of life.
Myth: Elderberry is incredibly healthy
At the moment, no reputable medical organization recognizes elderberry-based drugs as medicines or recommends their use for medical purposes.
However, properly prepared elderberry syrups or teas can be enjoyable to drink. The basic rule is not to eat berries raw, even if they are ripe.
In folk medicine, elderberry has been used as a fever reducer and as a diuretic. In modern conditions, supporters of alternative medicine often resort to it for the prevention and treatment of ARVI, influenza and COVID-19. However, there is only one study on its usefulness for colds, and its effectiveness for COVID-19 has not been confirmed.
Elderberries contain cyanogenic glycosides, which can produce toxic hydrocyanic acid. Although ripe berries contain little of these substances, even small amounts of fresh berries can cause vomiting, abdominal cramps and diarrhea.
To avoid poisoning, elderberries should be boiled before consumption: for example, prepare a herbal decoction, jam or syrup.
Myth: Milk helps with heartburn
Sometimes, when a person experiences heartburn or suffers from a more serious illness such as gastritis or an ulcer, folk remedies often advise “drinking milk” in the hope that it can relieve the unpleasant symptoms.
Although the calcium and protein found in milk may theoretically help relieve heartburn, in practice, drinking full-fat milk may make symptoms worse. If you want to experience heartburn relief with milk, it’s best to choose low-fat options.
However, it is important to remember that to effectively treat heartburn, you need to see a doctor and follow his recommendations, and not rely solely on folk remedies.
In case of heartburn, the following medications are recommended:
- Drugs that reduce stomach acidity;
- Antacids that neutralize hydrochloric acid in the stomach.
To combat heartburn, it is also important to eliminate factors that may increase gastric acid production, such as consuming fatty foods, coffee, alcohol, smoking, carbonated drinks and fruit juices.
The diet should be supplemented with cottage cheese, boiled vegetables and cereals, consumed in small portions 4-5 times a day, and the last meal should be taken 2-3 hours before bedtime. In addition, it is recommended to raise the head end of the bed by approximately 15 cm.
