Mysteries of the Human Body
By Sara Butler
There are some things we’ll never know, and some things still left to be discovered. While science constantly makes strides unlocking some of the mysteries of the human body, there are quite a few that remain. Here are some of the biggest unsolved mysteries we have yet to decipher about the human body!
What Are Fingerprints For?
Your fingerprints are uniquely you. So unique, in fact, that not even identical twins share them. But why on earth do people have these patterns on the tips of their fingers anyway? For a long time, scientists believed that they were used to help grip, but research has since shown that fingerprints impede a good grip because they allow less skin to come into contact with something we want to grab. Of course, there are theories out there, but there’s no sure-fire explanation out there.
But did you know that your fingerprints aren’t the only unique thing about you? The iris of your eye, your ear, your tongue, and teeth are all unique too!
What’s the Appendix For?
The tiny appendix can cause big problems for some people. But if you must get your appendix removed at some point in your life, it doesn’t impact your health or continued wellness. It was thought that our ancestors needed the appendix for digestion, but another theory has recently emerged that it serves as a kind of tiny storage shed for good bacteria. What it’s really for is still up in the air, but those are some interesting theories!
Why Do You Yawn?
You have been yawning since your mother’s womb, but no one is really sure why. One theory is that it helps to regulate the temperature of the brain, while others think that yawning helps to give your body a boost when you’re feeling sluggish. Both – or none – may be true. No one really knows for sure. One thing’s for sure, just thinking about it makes you feel a yawn coming on!
Why is Laughter Catching?
Laughter is infectious! Science has uncovered that powerful emotions will cause the brain activity of different people to sync. It has something to do with the fact that humans are social creatures and laughing releases endorphins that help us to feel more at ease. While the underlying reason for catching laughter is unknown, laughter sure does feel good!
The human body is pretty amazing and the more you know about it the more amazing it becomes!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Des Peres, Mo.