Whether you’re heading to tropical climes or staying closer to home, leave these misconceptions behind
Is coffee too dehydrating to drink when it’s hot? Are those sizzling, barbecued sausages harmless or could they up your cancer risk? Get clued up now so you can make the most of your time off. You’ll return well-rested and refreshed, knowing you dealt with any holiday hazards sensibly.
The Myth
Coffee dehydrates you
THE REALITY
‘This was based on research in the 1920s which looked at caffeine alone,’ says dietician Nichola Whitehead. ‘The diuretic in coffee is counteracted by the water.’
Still, the low humidity in plane cabins and high temperatures abroad will up your risk of dehydration. Avoid drinking too much alcohol or coffee before and during your flight, and adapt your usual hydration habits when you arrive.
The Myth
You only need to wear sunglasses
THE REALITY
Partly cloudy or overcast days can still damage your skin and eyes. According to the WHO, 90% of UV rays can get through light cloud coverage. For optimum eye health, you should really be wearing sunglasses all year round, says Dr Andy Hepworth from essilor.co.uk. ‘And only buy glasses that can authentically prove their UV protection. All sunglasses sold in the UK should have a UKCA mark on them to indicate that they comply with regulatory standards.’
The Myth
A warm bath helps you sleep
THE REALITY
Yes, but a warm bath raises your core body temperature, which needs time to fall again before you can drift off. When in warmer climates, ensure the water is not too hot and give your body 1-2 hours to cool down afterwards.
The Myth
Eating red meat gives you cancer
THE REALITY
Canadian researchers rattled the nutrition world in 2019 by opposing the WHO’s advice about cutting back on red and processed meat because of a link to cancer. While their analysis of past studies supported the link to illnesses such as cancer and heart disease, they judged that the chance of any benefit from eating less was actually small. Regardless, experts still agree that it’s healthier to eat less red meat and restrict consumption of processed meats such as sausages and salami even further. Try going meat-free by grilling oily fish or vegetable kebabs on the barbie instead.
The Myth
Natural repellents don’t work
THE REALITY
DEET, a synthetic insect repellent, was the most effective on the market. But there is an equally good natural alternative. Try Incognito Insect Repellent Lotion (£14.99, Holland & Barrett). Its active ingredient, PMD, has joined DEET as the only two approved for use in high
