Ever wondered whether you really need to brush your teeth twice a day, or if breakfast is truly the most important meal? On November 13, 2025, the UIS Diversity Center and Women’s Center teamed up to answer those questions during their “Healthy or Hype?” tabling event.

The collaboration focused on debunking common health myths, especially those college students are most likely to hear. Marissa Romero, a student staff member at the Women’s Center, said the partnership was a natural fit because both centers aim to support students. “Reliable health information is a key part of that support,” she explained.

Representatives Romero and Ethan Tarver from Gender and Sexuality Student Services were prepared with research-based answers. One long-standing belief- that breakfast is the most important meal of the day- was labeled hype. They explained that what matters most is overall daily nutrition rather than when someone eats their first meal.

Some myths proved true, however. Brushing twice a day remains essential for maintaining good oral hygiene. Another helpful reminder for students: holding in a sneeze isn’t healthy. If one hits during a quiet lecture, it’s better to let it out politely than risk straining your body by suppressing it.

The event offered an interactive quiz booklet, giving students a chance to test their knowledge in a fun and engaging way. “We host a lot of events for students throughout the semester,” Tarver said. “We publicize them on UIS Connections, and everyone is invited to participate.”

In the end, “Healthy or Hype?” turned everyday health questions into an accessible and enjoyable learning experience, showing that taking care of yourself can be both simple and informative.