Health and Me

Ishita Roy

Five Health Myths We Burst This Year For You

2025 was the year of viral health claims. These claims had shock-value, but often were half-baked theories, which spread faster than facts. At <span>Health and Me</span>, we made it a mission to burst <span>health myths</span>, and help our readers make better and healthier life choices. Here is a recap of the myths we debunked this year.

<h2>Myth 1: The Pink Salt Trick - Is It A Shortcut To Weight Loss?</h2>

The pink salt, lemon and water drink went viral on TikTok as a “metabolic reset.” Its simplicity made it tempting, but there is no scientific evidence that it burns fat or suppresses appetite.

Nutritionists warn that excess sodium can raise blood pressure and cause bloating. Pink salt also lacks iodine, making daily consumption risky for thyroid health. Investigations and dietitians have repeatedly confirmed that this drink does not boost metabolism or detox the body. The trend particularly targeted women seeking quick fixes, but experts remind that weight loss still relies on balanced eating and consistent movement.

<h2>Myth 2: Painkillers Are Neurotoxins That Can Cause Infertility</h2>

A June 2 viral reel claimed that common painkillers raise heart risks by 20 percent, cause fertility problems, harm mental health, and act as “neurotoxins that kill the nervous system.” The influencer added that taking ibuprofen during periods “cuts off communication between the uterus and brain.”

Experts clarified that painkillers are not neurotoxins and do not interfere with the nervous system. They work by inhibiting enzymes responsible for producing pain-related chemicals. No part of this process kills nerves or blocks communication between organs and the brain.

On fertility, reproductive specialists at Instituto Bernabeu and findings from a 2016 prospective cohort study confirmed that standard painkillers like paracetamol, ibuprofen, aspirin, and acetaminophen do not reduce fertility or affect the ability to conceive. In fact, ibuprofen is often used to ease severe menstrual cramps caused by underlying conditions such as endometriosis, which itself may influence fertility.

<h2>Myth 3: Producing Semen Automatically Means High Fertility In Men</h2>

We also tackled a long-standing myth many couples quietly worry about. A large number of men believe that producing semen automatically means they have healthy sperm.

Senior IVF specialist Dr Beena Muktesh reminded us that fertility is not about semen production but sperm quality. Sperm count, movement, and shape determine whether conception is possible. Even semen that appears normal in volume or texture can contain poor-quality sperm or show signs of infection or inflammation.

A simple semen analysis can reveal key issues. Low count, weak motility, abnormal shape, and pH imbalance can all affect fertility despite regular ejaculation. The takeaway is clear: semen production alone is never a measure of reproductive health.

<h2>Myth 4: Aluminum In Vaccines Cause Food Allergies</h2>

Health Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr. claimed that aluminum in vaccines triggers food allergies, echoing a belief that resurfaced across social media.

Aluminum is an adjuvant that strengthens immune response and has been safely used for decades. It is found in vaccines that protect against diphtheria, tetanus, HPV, hepatitis, pertussis, and more.

While a 2022 study explored a possible link between aluminum exposure and asthma, it also stressed the need for more research. A large study from Denmark in 2023 found no such link, and the American Academy of Pediatrics clearly stated that aluminum in vaccines does not cause food allergies. Genetics and delayed.

<h2>Myth 5: ADHD Ca Be Cured Through Diet Alone</h2>

One popular reel claimed that the “actual treatment” for ADHD lies entirely in food and nutrition. While diet does influence brain health, experts highlight that ADHD cannot be cured solely through food.

Neurologists acknowledge the role of nutrition in managing symptoms, especially through gut health and nutrients such as fibers, inulin and antioxidants. Some studies show that zinc, iron or certain dietary changes may reduce symptom severity. However, all research agrees that diet cannot cure the condition. ADHD requires a combination of therapy, behavioral strategies and, when needed, medication.

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2025 was the year of viral health claims. These claims had shock-value, but often were half-baked theories, which spread faster than facts. At Health and Me, we made it a mission to burst health myths, and help our readers make better and healthier life choices. Here is a recap of the myths we debunked this year.Myth 1: The Pink Salt Trick - Is It A Shortcut To Weight Loss?The pink salt, lemon and water drink went viral on TikTok as a “metabolic reset.” Its simplicity made it tempting, but there is no scientific evidence that it burns fat or suppresses appetite.What expert explainedNutritionists warn that excess sodium can raise blood pressure and cause bloating. Pink salt also lacks iodine, making daily consumption risky for thyroid health. Investigations and dietitians have repeatedly confirmed that this drink does not boost metabolism or detox the body. The trend particularly targeted women seeking quick fixes, but experts remind that weight loss still relies on balanced eating and consistent movement.Myth 2: Painkillers Are Neurotoxins That Can Cause InfertilityA June 2 viral reel claimed that common painkillers raise heart risks by 20 percent, cause fertility problems, harm mental health, and act as “neurotoxins that kill the nervous system.” The influencer added that taking ibuprofen during periods “cuts off communication between the uterus and brain.”What the science actually saysExperts clarified that painkillers are not neurotoxins and do not interfere with the nervous system. They work by inhibiting enzymes responsible for producing pain-related chemicals. No part of this process kills nerves or blocks communication between organs and the brain.On fertility, reproductive specialists at Instituto Bernabeu and findings from a 2016 prospective cohort study confirmed that standard painkillers like paracetamol, ibuprofen, aspirin, and acetaminophen do not reduce fertility or affect the ability to conceive. In fact, ibuprofen is often used to ease severe menstrual cramps caused by underlying conditions such as endometriosis, which itself may influence fertility.Myth 3: Producing Semen Automatically Means High Fertility In MenWe also tackled a long-standing myth many couples quietly worry about. A large number of men believe that producing semen automatically means they have healthy sperm.What expert explainedSenior IVF specialist Dr Beena Muktesh reminded us that fertility is not about semen production but sperm quality. Sperm count, movement, and shape determine whether conception is possible. Even semen that appears normal in volume or texture can contain poor-quality sperm or show signs of infection or inflammation.A simple semen analysis can reveal key issues. Low count, weak motility, abnormal shape, and pH imbalance can all affect fertility despite regular ejaculation. The takeaway is clear: semen production alone is never a measure of reproductive health.Myth 4: Aluminum In Vaccines Cause Food AllergiesHealth Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr. claimed that aluminum in vaccines triggers food allergies, echoing a belief that resurfaced across social media.What global health bodies sayAluminum is an adjuvant that strengthens immune response and has been safely used for decades. It is found in vaccines that protect against diphtheria, tetanus, HPV, hepatitis, pertussis, and more.While a 2022 study explored a possible link between aluminum exposure and asthma, it also stressed the need for more research. A large study from Denmark in 2023 found no such link, and the American Academy of Pediatrics clearly stated that aluminum in vaccines does not cause food allergies. Genetics and delayed.Myth 5: ADHD Ca Be Cured Through Diet AloneOne popular reel claimed that the “actual treatment” for ADHD lies entirely in food and nutrition. While diet does influence brain health, experts highlight that ADHD cannot be cured solely through food.What expert saysNeurologists acknowledge the role of nutrition in managing symptoms, especially through gut health and nutrients such as fibers, inulin and antioxidants. Some studies show that zinc, iron or certain dietary changes may reduce symptom severity. However, all research agrees that diet cannot cure the condition. ADHD requires a combination of therapy, behavioral strategies and, when needed, medication.