5 bogus health tips

These common health rules may not be as accurate as you think.

Jan, 2026

“I’ll get sick if I go outside with wet hair.”

“Cracking my knuckles will cause arthritis.”

“My nose isn't running clear, so I must have an infection.”

“Eating spicy foods will cause stomach ulcers.”

“Swimming after eating will cause stomach cramps.”

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By Olivia DeLong

Don't swim right after you eat. Never go outside with wet hair. We've all heard health tales like these or read them on the Internet—but many lack scientific evidence. We talked with Mark Newton, MD, of Doctors Hospital of Augusta, Georgia, to debunk some of those long-standing health tales—so you can stop worrying.