When we hear gems of wisdom so many times, we often don’t stop to question whether or not they are even true. However, just because Mom or Grandma says so, doesn’t mean it is.

Here is a good list of 10 that have been debunked.

Myth #1: Always use fat-free dressing

Truth: In order to absorb many of the antioxidants in vegetables, which includes beta-carotine and lycopene, they need to be eaten with some kind of fat. They cannot be absorbed without it. Even using reduced fat dressing decreases the absorption of nutrients when compared to full fat dressing. A better alternative is to used olive oil, vinegar and spices to your taste.

Myth #2: Do not read in low light as it will damage your eyes

Truth: It might strain them, but it will not damage them. To avoid eye strain, look up and focus on something else every 30 minutes or so. Blink frequently to avoid dryness in the eyes.

Myth #3: Apply fragrance behind the ears

Truth: Colognes and fragrances evaporate in air and behind the ears, the scent is quickly gone. A general rule of thumb is to apply below the throat to a point somewhere between the breasts. Your body heat activates it and helps it to last longer. Keep in mind that dry skin does not hold scents as well as oily skin. If yours is dry, then you might want to apply fragrance more often during the day.

Myth #4: Sell yourself in a job interview

Truth: It’s o.k. to highlight your strengths, but it can be easy to go overboard. It’s best to talk to the interviewer as if you are trying to see if the company is a good fit for you as well as you for them.

Myth #5: Feed a cold, starve a fever

Truth: You would do well to feed them both. You need the nutrients and energy from food to help you get better. If you stop eating or drinking during your illness, you become dehydrated which ends up making you feel worse. Drink lots of fluids to prevent becoming dehydrated.

Myth #6: Never eat after 8:00 PM or you will gain weight

Truth: Calories are calories and it really does not matter what time you eat them according to top researchers in the field.

Myth #7: Pull out one gray hair and three will grow back

Truth: This is false. There is only one hair shaft and only the one single gray hair will grow back.

Myth #8: Never paint a smaller room a dark color

Truth: Go ahead and paint it whatever color you want. A darker color creates a sense of intimacy and the feeling of being embraced. Think of the mood you are trying to set for the room when deciding on a color.

Myth #9: Crossing your legs causes varicose veins

Truth: According to leading research experts, this is only possible if you do it for more than 12 hours a day for months on end. Leading contributors to varicose veins are standing for long periods of time and pregnancy.

In closing, I’d like to share one myth that has been found to be true. In a research study, it was concluded that drinking diet soda really does make you fat. Every can or glass that is consumed on a daily basis raises your risk of being overweight by more than 40%. As has always been recommended, plain old water is the best thing for you and will quench your thirst.

Hopefully, the next time you hear one of these, you will be armed with the knowledge to counteract the claim.