From cold prevention to the cause of varicose veins, we dig up the facts and debunk some common myths.
Baldness is inherited from your mother’s side Fact: German researchers have found that variations in a gene related to male sex hormones may be the cause of male-pattern baldness. This gene dwells on the X chromosome, which men inherit from their mothers.

Published in the American Journal of Human Genetics, the study concedes that other yet-to-be identified genes are likely to also be involved in male-pattern baldness. This could include genes handed down by fathers.

You can never drink too much water Fact: The wonders of water are well known, and it has long been drummed into us that we must drink eight glasses of water daily. But did you know it is possible to drink too much water?

Too much water lowers the concentration of sodium in the blood. This can cause the brain to swell, leading to a feeling of lethargy, unconsciousness and even a coma or death. According to Nutrition Australia, the amount of water a person should drink every day depends on how much you sweat and how much water is in your food. There is a general agreement that people should drink between 1.5 and 2.5 litres of water daily, and a bit more if you are exercising.

The flu vaccine gives you a nasty dose of the flu Fact: Influenza vaccine cannot cause influenza. It is an inactivated vaccine and contains killed virus which are not infectious. ‘Flu-like’ symptoms may occur as a result of the vaccine but these are not flu and will not develop into influenza. TODAY Show health editor Dr Ric Gordon adds that some people who get the flu vaccine can still get the flu, but will usually get a milder dose than those who are not vaccinated.

Regular exercise prevents colds Fact: Colds are inevitable. But research has shown that those who undertake a moderate exercise regime report fewer colds when compared to those who do not exercise, according to Professor Steve Boutcher from the University of New South Wales. Moderate physical activity may also reduce the number of days with respiratory sickness.

Some studies have found positive changes in immune function after moderate exercise. Don’t overdo it though – too much exercise appears to enhance the incidence of colds, as the neutrophil function (an important immune system component) is typically suppressed after intense workouts.

The best way to avoid cold viruses is to regularly wash your hands and steer clear of people who have cold symptoms. Hair and fingernails continue to grow after death Fact: As ghoulish as this myth sounds, this phenomenon is actually the result of surrounding tissue drying out and retracting after death, giving the impression of longer hair or nails.

If you cross your legs you will get varicose veins Fact: This is false, as Dr Ric Gordon, TODAY Show heath editor, explains: “Genetics are the main factor and there is no way to prevent varicose veins if you’re predisposed. Pregnancy can also induce varicose veins.” It is possible to decrease the risk of getting varicose veins by exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding wearing high heels.