13 Of The Oddest Things People Believed About Health in the ’50s

Back in the day, folks really believed in doctors, ads, and even the gossip about what was good or bad for them. These old ideas really highlight how much our view on health has evolved over the years.

Tricia Quitales
April 17, 2025
4 min read

13 Of The Oddest Things People Believed About Health in the ’50s — Mikhail Nilov on Pexels

Health tips from the 1950s were sometimes pretty out there—not everything was based on solid science, and some of it seems really strange now. People have thought some pretty crazy stuff about wellness, like smoking to breathe better or using soda to help with digestion. We will cover 13 of the weirdest health beliefs from the ’50s and dives into their origins. Some were totally chill, but others were a bit sketchy, highlighting how much we’ve learned in medicine.

1. Smoking Was “Good for the Lungs”

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Some cigarette ads claimed that smoking helped clear the throat and ease breathing. Even doctors were seen in ads recommending certain brands. Today, we know smoking damages the lungs and causes serious diseases.

2. Coca-Cola Helped Digestion

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People once believed drinking Coca-Cola after meals would settle your stomach. It was seen as a helpful remedy for indigestion and bloating. Now, we know it’s full of sugar and not helpful for gut health at all.

3. Sunbathing Was Healthy All the Time

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Getting a tan was seen as a sign of good health and strong immunity. People spent hours in the sun with little or no protection. Now, we understand the risk of skin cancer and the importance of sunscreen.

4. Radioactive Products Were “Healing”

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Items like toothpaste, water jugs, and even face creams were sold with radioactive ingredients. They were marketed as energy boosters or skin brighteners. Radiation is now known to be highly dangerous, not healthy.

5. Sugar Gave You Energy and Was Good for Kids

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Parents were told sugar would help children grow and stay active—ads featured candy as a healthy snack option. Today, we limit sugar due to its link to obesity and diabetes.

6. Exercise Wasn’t Necessary Unless You Were Overweight

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Many believed only people who wanted to lose weight needed to work out. Daily movement wasn’t seen as important for the average person. Now, we know regular exercise is key for everyone’s health, no matter their size.

7. Tapeworms for Weight Loss

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A bizarre myth claimed people could swallow tapeworm pills to stay slim. Though not widely proven, the idea existed, and some even sold “diet pills” with questionable ingredients. This is extremely unsafe and considered illegal today.

8. Doctors Recommended Beer During Pregnancy

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Some doctors told pregnant women that a beer a day could help them relax and sleep better. It was even said to help with breastfeeding later on. Today, we know that alcohol during pregnancy is dangerous for the baby.

9. Corsets Were “Good for Posture and Health”

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Women wore tight corsets not just for looks but because they believed it improved posture and helped organs stay in place. Doctors often supported the idea. Now, we know corsets can harm muscles and restrict breathing.

10. Children Didn’t Need Helmets or Seatbelts

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Safety gear was rarely used or even available for kids in cars or on bikes. People believed that “watching your kids” was enough protection. Today, helmets and seatbelts save countless lives and are required by law in many places.

11. Electric Belts Cured All Ailments

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Electric belts were sold as miracle health devices that could fix back pain, boost energy, and even improve digestion. People wore them daily, believing the small shocks had healing powers. Now, we know they don’t do much besides maybe tingle a little.

12. Butter Was Healthier Than Vegetables

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Some nutrition advice praised butter and animal fat over plant-based foods. Vegetables were often seen as boring and less nourishing. Modern science now proves the value of a plant-rich diet for long-term health.

13. Cold Weather Make You Sick

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It was commonly believed that going outside with wet hair or without a coat would cause a cold. People bundled up out of fear of catching an illness from the air. Today, we know colds come from viruses, not chilly weather.