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Medical Myths, Lies, and Half-Truths: What We Think We Know May Be Hurting Us cover art

Medical Myths, Lies, and Half-Truths: What We Think We Know May Be Hurting Us

By: Steven Novella, The Great Courses
Narrated by: Steven Novella
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Publisher's Summary

True or false: Eight glasses of water a day are mandatory for staying hydrated. Vitamin C protects you from catching a cold. Natural foods are always better for you.

What do these nuggets of so-called medical wisdom have in common? They're not true. They're myths, half-truths, and misconceptions - pieces of information so familiar we take them for granted without truly considering the scientific truth behind them.

In today's information age, such medical myths are all around us. And using them to make decisions about your own health can be harmful. Even deadly. That's why it's critical to understand the accuracy of medical information and discover the truth about everyday health and well-being.

That's the core of this important series of 24 eye-opening lectures from an acclaimed neurologist, educator, and science broadcaster. Dr. Novella will give you evidence-based guidelines for good health, enhance your ability to be better informed about common medical myths, and strengthen your skills at assessing medical information and advice.

An essential aid for any home, the lecture series is divided into three sections that focus on specific aspects of health. "You Are What You Eat and Drink": Get pointed looks at proper hydration, the routine use of multivitamins, natural foods and probiotics, antioxidants, and more. "Fighting Diseases": Sort out truth from fiction regarding vaccines, the supposed link between vaccination and autism, chronic diseases, and other subjects. "Exploring the Alternatives": Investigate the claims behind herbal medicines, homeopathy, acupuncture, and other alternatives that aren't as worthwhile as they claim to be.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying reference material will be available in your Library section along with the audio.

©2010 The Teaching Company, LLC (P)2010 The Great Courses

What listeners say about Medical Myths, Lies, and Half-Truths: What We Think We Know May Be Hurting Us

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Take that, society!

What made the experience of listening to Medical Myths, Lies, and Half-Truths: What We Think We Know May Be Hurting Us the most enjoyable?

Having lots of info broken into sections so you can listen to certain parts and not be overwhelmed. Professor Novella makes sure to deliver steady speech (not fast), to speak clearly, and to pause when needed.

What was one of the most memorable moments of Medical Myths, Lies, and Half-Truths: What We Think We Know May Be Hurting Us?

I'm only halfway through, but have already felt the desire to write this review, so currently, one of the most memorable moments for me was a simple comment on making sure migraineurs drink water even when they don't feel like it (I'm a borderline chronic migraineur).

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

Yes, but unfortunately, it's impossible as it's very long and I can only listen in chunks.

Any additional comments?

As stated, I'm only halfway through, but am enjoying gaining deeper insights into subjects I was already skeptical of. For instance, I learned that originally, acupuncture was a way of blood letting, and that modern acupuncture is totally re-thought (though still has no evidence to support it).
In general, it's both educational and comforting to be told how many people believe in things that aren't true, don't help, or can actually be harmful, because people with chronic illness like myself are often given well-meaning advice, but that advice should always be taken with a grain of salt, looked further into, or gently discredited. Self education is key, and these lectures help a lot.

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4 people found this helpful

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very interesting and we'll. worth listening to.

amazing what we think we know is actually rubbish. great to get facts like this so you can seem clever !!!

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2 people found this helpful

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Terrible. Not factually accurate

Biggest waiste of time and money I have purchased on audible. Filled with false information that follows general thought that is often wrong. Terrible.

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1 person found this helpful

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wrong beliefs exposed

very interesting. many challenging ideas. I did not realise that I had bought into so many half truths and down right falsehoods. this course was a good investment of time and money.

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Medical myth busting!

Great for anyone who doesn't want to be hoodwinked by common medical and health myths

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listen

some parts quite challenging to health knowledge and beliefs. the conclusion is to question everything

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another great listen

Another great listen by Steven Novella, definitely a must for anyone who thinks they know everything!

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