Myth 1: The more soy products you eat, the better:
Protein in soybeans can hinder the human body's absorption of iron. Excessive intake of soy protein can inhibit normal iron absorption by up to 90%, leading to iron-deficiency anemia, which manifests as varying degrees of fatigue and drowsiness. Therefore, although soy products are rich in nutrients, they are not a case of "the more, the better." Moderation is key.
Myth 2: High-heat stir-frying with hot oil is fragrant:
When the oil temperature exceeds 200°C, not only are the beneficial unsaturated fatty acids in vegetable oils oxidized, but a gas called "acrolein" is also produced. It is a main component of cooking fumes and extremely harmful to the human respiratory system. Furthermore, "acrolein" can cause oils to easily produce carcinogenic peroxides. Therefore, it is better to stir-fry with oil that is about 80% hot.
Myth 3: The more seasonings and condiments, the better:
Medical research indicates that natural seasonings such as pepper, cinnamon, cloves, fennel, and ginger have certain irritant and toxic properties. If used in excess in food, mild symptoms include a dry mouth, sore throat, listlessness, and insomnia. In severe cases, they can induce multiple diseases such as high blood pressure and gastroenteritis, and may even cause human cells to become abnormal, leading to cancer. Therefore, it is best to use as few seasonings as possible in daily meals.
Myth 4: Flash-frying poultry and meat has many benefits:
Many people prefer to flash-fry food, believing that this method produces dishes with excellent color and taste. However, in fact, flash-frying is a very unhygienic cooking method. Poultry and meat, especially animal organs, often carry large amounts of viruses and bacteria. Some viruses require more than ten minutes of boiling to be killed. Due to the short cooking time of flash-frying, viruses and bacteria are not easily eliminated. After eating such food, it is very easy to contract "zoonotic diseases." Therefore, it is safer to cook poultry and meat thoroughly before eating.
Myth 5: Taking tonic medicines when you have a cold:
Tonic medicines can generate high heat and energy in the body, which can raise a patient's body temperature and worsen the condition. Additionally, tonics can also promote the growth and reproduction of bacteria, leading to more severe infections and inflammation.
Myth 6: Eating fruit immediately after a meal:
Scientists have pointed out that fruit contains a large amount of monosaccharides, which are easily absorbed by the small intestine. However, if they are blocked in the stomach by a meal, they will ferment and cause bloating and stomach discomfort. Therefore, it is best to eat fruit one hour before a meal or two hours after a meal.