10 Surprising Health Facts [2023]

As health professionals, our team strives to provide daily health-related facts to help our readers lead healthier lives. In this article, we have compiled a list of the top 10 surprising health facts that will leave you awe-struck. We've researched and verified each of these facts to ensure that you can trust and rely on this information.

Drinking Hot Beverages Can Increase Your Risk of Cancer

One of the surprising facts that most of us are unaware of is that drinking hot beverages can increase the risk of cancer. Research has shown that drinking beverages hotter than 149°F (65°C) can cause cancer of the esophagus. The study revealed that consuming hot tea at a temperature of 140°F (60°C) and above can increase the risk of cancer by up to 90%. The risk was predominant in those who drank hot beverages frequently.

Chewing Gum Can Help You Concentrate

We all have experienced boredom, lack of focus, or a lack of concentration at some point in our lives. Did you know that chewing gum can help you concentrate? According to studies, chewing gum can boost cognitive function, increase alertness, and improve reaction time. But, the effectiveness of chewing gum in enhancing cognitive function is dependent on the flavor and type of gum that’s chewed. Gum that is sugar-free and peppermint flavored is found to be effective in increasing mental focus.

Fidgeting Helps You Burn More Calories

Many of us think of fidgeting as a bad habit, but it can be good for your health. Fidgeting, such as bouncing your legs up and down or tapping a foot while seated, can increase your heart rate and help you burn more calories. A study found that fidgeting can help burn up to 350 calories per day, compared to 150 calories burned during sitting still.

Lack of Sleep Can Cause Weight Gain

If you are trying to lose weight, you should focus on ensuring that you get enough sleep. Adults need between 7-9 hours of sleep per night. Lack of sleep affects the hormones that regulate hunger- leptin and ghrelin, making you feel hungrier and increasing cravings for high-calorie foods. Several studies have shown that people who don't get enough sleep tend to gain more weight than those who do.

E-Cigarettes Are Not Safe

Many people believe that e-cigarettes are a safe alternative to traditional tobacco products. But they are not. E-cigarettes contain chemicals such as nicotine, formaldehyde, and acetaldehyde, which are carcinogens. Besides, many e-cigarette liquids contain flavorings such as diacetyl, which can cause lung disease. Contrary to popular belief, e-cigarettes pose a serious threat to your health.

Washing Your Hands Too Much Can Do More Harm Than Good

Washing your hands frequently is essential to prevent the spread of germs. However, over-washing can cause skin damage, leading to cracks in the skin. These cracks can, in turn, serve as an entry point for germs and cause infections. Washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is sufficient to kill bacteria and viruses.

Laughing Can Make You Healthier

Laughter is the best medicine. It is not only fun but also provides health benefits. When you laugh, you release endorphins, which are your body's natural feel-good chemicals. Laughter can boost your immune system, reduce stress, relieve pain, and improve mood. So, the next time you're feeling down, watch a comedy show and laugh your worries away.

Sitting for Long Hours Can Shorten Your Lifespan

Sitting for long hours is the new smoking. It is a silent killer that poses a grave threat to human health. Prolonged sitting increases the risk of developing health conditions such as obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and even certain types of cancer. Therefore, it is essential to stay active and limit sitting time, especially if you have a desk job.

Eating Dark Chocolate Is Good for Your Health

Chocoholics, rejoice! Research has shown that eating dark chocolate can be good for your health. It is packed with antioxidants that can help improve blood flow, lower blood pressure, and reduce the risk of heart disease. Besides, consuming dark chocolate can boost mood and reduce stress levels.

Hugging Can Boost Your Immune System

Hugging is more than just an expression of affection. It is also good for our health. When we hug, the hormone oxytocin is released, which reduces stress and anxiety. This hormone can also improve immune function and enhance social connections. So, the next time you meet someone, give them a warm hug.

FAQ

Did you know facts about staying healthy?

1. Drinking coffee can reduce the risk of liver cancer by up to 40%.
2. Eating nuts can help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease.
3. Consuming probiotics can help boost gut health and improve digestion.

What are fun kids health facts?

1. The human nose can detect over 1 trillion different smells.
2. The heart of an adult beats around 100,000 times a day.
3. The tongue is the strongest muscle in the human body relative to its size.

Quick Tips and Facts

• Add turmeric to your diet to reduce inflammation in the body.
• Walking at least 10,000 steps per day can help maintain cardiovascular health.
• Eating a balanced diet and getting enough sleep can help reduce the risk of depression and anxiety.

In conclusion, there are many surprising health facts that can help us lead a healthier life. From drinking hot beverages to hugging, our everyday habits impact our health in various ways. By making small changes in our daily routine, we can significantly improve our health and well-being. So, let’s take the first step towards a healthier lifestyle today.

References:

1. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/cancer
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4449949/
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3228657/
4. https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/sleep-deprivation
5. https://www.lung.org/quit-smoking/e-cigarettes-vaping/impact-of-e-cigarettes-on-lung
6. https://www.healthline.com/health/washing-hands#Best-Hand-Washing-Practices
7. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/stress-relief/art-20044456
8. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/why-sitting-is-bad-for-you
9. https://www.heartuk.org.uk/low-cholesterol-foods/dark-chocolate
10. https://www.health.harvard.edu/mental-health/the-health-benefits-of-strong-relationships