Book exposes health myths

Dr. Oz tells you the truth about your body and your health, but here are a couple of physicians who tell you the truth about your grandmother and the “advice” she planted in your brain.

The book’s called “Don’t Swallow Your Gum: Myths, Half-Truths and Outright Lies About Your Body and Health,” by Dr. Aaron E. Carroll and Dr. Rachel C. Vreeman.

Here are some of the so-called facts they debunk: Double-dipping with chips really can transfer bacteria into the dip, especially if it’s a runny dip, such as salsa.

Mayonnaise-containing food such as potato salad is far less likely than unwashed fruits and vegetables or undercooked meat — to make you sick at a summer picnic.

Thirst is not a sign you’re already dehydrated. The two doctors at Indiana University School of Medicine have combed through medical research to present the evidence, not just anecdotes, behind medical notions and misconceptions. They also weigh in on some more serious and controversial health-related topics. Among them: sleeping with infants, fluoridated water and the purported link between vaccines and autism.

The book lists at $13.95, really.

Los Angeles Times