Which are the top 10 health-related myths that have been debunked this year?

It is important to note that the information provided is based on general knowledge and may not cover every published study or myth debunked during the year. Here are ten health-related myths that received attention in 2021:

1. COVID-19 vaccines alter DNA: This myth circulated widely and claimed that vaccines could modify a person’s DNA, but it is scientifically unfounded. Vaccines like the mRNA-based Pfizer and Moderna vaccines do not interact with our DNA.

2. Vaccines cause infertility: Another false claim suggested that COVID-19 vaccines could lead to infertility in women. Extensive research has debunked this myth, showing that vaccines do not affect fertility.

3. Ivermectin as a COVID-19 treatment: Despite claims on social media, several studies have found no significant benefits of using the antiparasitic drug, Ivermectin, in treating or preventing COVID-19.

4. Drinking cow’s urine as a COVID-19 cure: False assertions circulated that drinking cow urine could prevent or cure COVID-19. There is no scientific evidence supporting this claim.

5. Hydroxychloroquine as a COVID-19 treatment: Hydroxychloroquine gained attention early in the pandemic but studies have consistently shown that it does not significantly benefit COVID-19 patients and can have harmful side effects.

6. Exposure to 5G networks causes COVID-19: Baseless conspiracy theories alleging a link between 5G networks and the spread of COVID-19 emerged. This claim has been thoroughly debunked by scientific research.

7. Masks reduce oxygen levels: Misinformation suggested that wearing masks for extended periods could lead to oxygen deprivation, but studies have consistently shown that masks are safe and do not cause oxygen-related health issues.

8. Vitamin C prevents or cures COVID-19: While vitamin C is essential for a healthy immune system, there is no evidence to support the claim that high doses of vitamin C can prevent or cure COVID-19.

9. Microwave ovens decrease nutritional value: This myth claims that microwaving food strips it of nutrients. However, microwaving is actually one of the gentlest cooking methods and helps preserve nutritional content.

10. Detox diets are necessary to cleanse toxins: Popular detox diets claim to remove toxins from the body, but our liver and kidneys already perform this function efficiently. Detox diets are generally unnecessary and may lack essential nutrients.

Remember to rely on trusted sources of information like reputable health organizations or scientific journals to determine the accuracy of health-related claims.