Medical Mythbusting with Kevin R. Stone, MD
As featured in The Book “Play Forever” by Kevin R. Stone, MD*
Let’s take a closer look at some popular health beliefs that might be doing more harm than good!
Myth #1: Antioxidants are always good for you.
We’ve all heard that Vitamin C, E, turmeric, cumin, and anti-inflammatory diets are miracle workers—absorbing free radicals, improving skin, slowing aging, reducing cancer risk, and prolonging life. But here’s the truth: oxidation is actually how your body kills cancer cells.
Free radicals—those often-feared molecules—are part of your body’s natural defense system. They help destroy micro-cancers (abnormal cells that pop up in our bodies millions of times a day). So if you're overloading on antioxidants, you might be interfering with that natural cancer-fighting process.
According to Dr. Stone, there’s very little high-quality science to support the idea that taking more antioxidants than you’d get in a balanced diet offers any real benefit.
Myth #2: Sunlight is bad for you.
Sure, dermatologists warn us to stay out of the sun and slather on sunscreen—and yes, we do need to protect our skin. But we also need sunlight to convert Vitamin D into its active form.
Dr. Stone emphasizes that no matter how much Vitamin D you ingest, without sunlight, your body can’t use it effectively to absorb calcium and strengthen bones. So get some sun (safely, of course)!
Myth #3: Don’t exercise a painful or arthritic knee.
Wrong! Resistance exercise is the only type of movement shown to increase bone density without side effects. Avoiding exercise leads to loss of bone mass, muscle power, flexibility, balance—and even your sense of well-being.
Regular exercise is the antidote to arthritis. And doing it with a partner makes it more fun and easier to stick to!
Myth #4: Diet alone can lead to long-term weight loss.
While diets might deliver short-term results, lasting weight loss comes from a full-on lifestyle shift—and that includes fitness and mindset.
Dr. Stone says fitness involves cardiovascular endurance, stamina, strength, flexibility, power, coordination, agility, and balance. That’s where Therapeutic Connection PT & Wellness comes in!
He also reminds us: “Your workout must be satisfying both mentally and physically.” YES! You need to choose it daily because you know it’s making a difference. If you’re not fully invested—if you don’t truly value the process—it won’t stick.
Myth #5: Water intake doesn’t really matter.
If you’re already on the hydration train, great! But for the rest of us—listen up. Studies show most people are chronically dehydrated, and drinking more water can help suppress appetite, reduce cravings (especially for sugary drinks), and boost mood.
Every cell in your body functions better when it’s hydrated. Don’t forget—sleep, coffee, and alcohol all dehydrate you.
Myth #6: Vitamin supplements are essential.
Actually…no. Dr. Stone says: “It’s nearly impossible to know what’s really in a vitamin pill.” Clinical studies haven’t shown any benefit from supplements for the average healthy person.
A balanced diet with enough protein, fruits, and vegetables? That’s your best bet.
And I (Carolyn) have to say—TRUTH! Even way back in my first college experience (yes, before PT school), when I was chasing a dream of becoming a Sports Nutritionist, this is exactly what my professors were preaching. Decades later, it’s still the gold standard.
Myth #7: Cartilage can’t be regrown or replaced—especially if you have arthritis.
Not true! We’re learning more all the time about how to restore and regenerate cartilage. I wrote a whole newsletter on this! You can read it on my blog post from 12/23/24:
“Restoring Cartilage Naturally – Tips and Strategies for Joint Health”
Read more about Anatomy and how to best care for your body in The Book “Play Forever” by Kevin R. Stone, MD*
*This is an affiliate link, and Therapeutic Connection Physical Therapy & Wellness receives a commission for each sale. Thank you for supporting a small, woman-owned business!