13 Health Habits from the Past That Are Now Frowned Upon
Health advice has evolved significantly over the years, often reflecting the prevailing beliefs of the time. Many habits once seen as helpful or harmless are now known to be unsafe or even harmful. From old beauty routines to outdated medical tips, some practices seem shocking today.
- Tricia Quitales
- 5 min read
Here are health habits from the past that were once common but are now considered harmful or outdated. Each one reflects how beliefs and advice have shifted over time as science improved. Some habits were passed down through families, while others were promoted by professionals. They may seem strange now, but they were once part of daily life. Understanding them gives insight into how health practices continue to evolve.
1. Smoking for Relaxation
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It was once common for doctors to suggest smoking as a way to relieve stress or calm the nerves. Cigarettes were even advertised as healthy in some early ads. Over time, the dangers of smoking became clear, including cancer and heart disease. What was once a social habit is now a major health concern. Smoking is now one of the most avoided health risks.
2. Using Butter on Burns
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People used to put butter on burns, believing it would soothe the skin and aid in its healing. While it may have felt cool at first, butter actually trapped heat and increased the chance of infection. Medical experts now recommend using cool water and covering burns with a clean cloth. Applying food to injuries is no longer considered safe. It’s a clear example of how home remedies can sometimes do more harm than good.
3. Avoiding Exercise During Pregnancy
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For a long time, pregnant women were told to rest as much as possible and avoid almost all physical activity. Doctors believed that exercise could be risky for the baby or cause early labor. Today, gentle movement and exercise are encouraged during most pregnancies for better health. Staying active supports both the mother’s and the baby’s well-being. This outdated advice has been completely turned around by modern research.
4. Drinking Soda for an Upset Stomach
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People once gave cola or other sodas to settle an upset stomach or calm nausea. The sugar and fizz were believed to help digestion. In reality, sugary drinks can make symptoms worse and irritate the stomach lining. Water, herbal teas, or clear broths are better options. The idea of soda as medicine is no longer trusted.
5. Using Mercury in Medicine
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Mercury was once used in a variety of medical products, including ointments, disinfectants, and even teething powders for babies. It was thought to fight infection and reduce inflammation. Later studies found that mercury is highly toxic and can damage the brain, kidneys, and nervous system. Its use in everyday medicine is now banned in most places. What once seemed like a cure is now known as a poison.
6. Believing Sun Exposure Was Always Healthy
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Spending long hours in the sun without protection was once considered a healthy way to get more vitamin D. Tanning was even promoted as a sign of fitness. Today, we know that too much sun can lead to skin damage, premature aging, and skin cancer. Sunscreen, shade, and protective clothing are now strongly advised. Uncontrolled sun exposure is no longer viewed as safe.
7. Giving Children Alcohol for Sleep
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Some parents used to give small amounts of alcohol to help children fall asleep or calm down. This practice was especially common in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Modern health experts now warn that alcohol can seriously harm a child’s brain and body. Even tiny amounts are unsafe. This is one of the most dangerous habits from the past that has been completely rejected.
8. Believing All Fat Was Bad
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During the 1980s and 1990s, the low-fat trend became a major health focus. People believed that any kind of fat caused weight gain and heart problems. Later research has shown that healthy fats, such as those found in fish, nuts, and avocados, are essential for the body. Cutting all fats can actually lead to health issues. The fear of fat is now seen as a misunderstanding of nutrition.
9. Using Lead-Based Cosmetics
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In the past, some face powders and skin creams contained lead to help whiten the skin or reduce blemishes. These products were used widely without knowledge of the dangers. Over time, lead poisoning from cosmetics caused serious health problems. Today, lead is banned from all beauty products in most countries. This shift demonstrates the significant improvement in safety standards.
10. Taking Laxatives Regularly for Weight Loss
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Laxatives were often used not just for digestion but also for quick weight loss. Some people believed they could flush out fat or toxins. Regular use can lead to dehydration, nutrient loss, and serious damage to the digestive system. Doctors now strongly warn against this behavior. Using medicine this way is now known to be both harmful and ineffective.
11. Using Radioactive Products for Energy
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In the early 1900s, small doses of radiation were included in toothpaste, tonics, and even water for supposed energy and healing benefits. These items were sold with the promise of boosting health and stamina. Eventually, the dangers of radiation exposure became clear. Many users got sick, and some even died. Today, radiation is handled with strict safety rules and is no longer used casually.
12. Believing That Crying Was Unhealthy
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Crying was once viewed as a sign of weakness, and people were often advised to hold back tears for the sake of their health or dignity. It was believed that showing emotion could hurt mental strength. Now, experts understand that crying is a natural emotional release that can reduce stress. Bottling up feelings is actually worse for mental health. Encouraging emotional expression is now part of modern care.
13. Using Tobacco as a Tooth Cleaner
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Tobacco in powdered form was once used to clean teeth and freshen breath. It was included in early toothpaste mixtures or applied directly with a cloth. We now know that tobacco use leads to gum disease, tooth loss, and mouth cancer. The idea of using it for oral care sounds dangerous today. Toothpaste has come a long way from those early ingredients.