Body, health myths exposed

London: From drinking eight glasses of water everyday to eating food before going to bed helps in storing fat are some of the health guidelines that doctors suggest time and again, but experts bust such health and body myths that has been the part of our lifestyle since ages.

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Experts at Nature's Best nutrition, an online bodybuilding supplement provider, reveals the reality behind the myths, reports femalefirst.co.uk.

' Myth: You should drink eight glasses of water a day: 51 percent people think this is true

' Reality: Fluid intake will be dependent on a number of factors and eight glasses of water a day is not going to be a level which is suitable for everyone. If a person is very physically active, either because they play sports or have a demanding job, they will need to drink more. Conversely if someone is eating lots of watery fruits and vegetables then they may need to drink less to remain well hydrated.

' Myth: A tan can be healthy for your skin: 68 percent people think this is true

' Reality: A tan is a visible indication of sun damage, therefore, there is no such thing as a healthy tan. Healthy exposure should be limited to less than the time it takes to tan or burn. Burning just accelerates the risk of developing skin cancers and can also accelerate the ageing process, damaging the skin and causing fine lines and wrinkles.

' Myth: Adding fibre to your diet helps with constipation: 45 percent people think this is false

' Reality: A high fibre diet is often recommended, especially for those with constipation. Furthermore a diet rich in healthy fibre is linked to developing an improvement in digestive health. However, for many adding bran and bran-based cereals to your diet may make constipation worse, whilst foods high in insoluble fibre may reduce the absorption of certain minerals, such as iron if eaten at the same time of day. Ideally, it is preferable to take soluble fibre found in fruits and vegetables, particularly dried fruits as this forms a gel and softens the stools."

' Myth: Eating at night makes you store fat: 66 percent people think this is true

' Reality: If you are eating a meal or snack which is rich in carbohydrate and fats in the evening then this is likely to cause some fat storage as your insulin levels will peak in response to the glucose produced. However, this fact is largely dependent on what has been eater throughout the entire day and also what level of exercise has been undertaken. To avoid any type of fat storage choose a meal with a good balance of protein, fibre and a small amount of good fat.