Vampires: The Science Behind the Myth

The video explores the origins of vampire myths, linking them to medical conditions like porphyria, pellagra, and catalepsy. These conditions, misunderstood in the past, may have contributed to the traits associated with vampires, such as sensitivity to sunlight, red discoloration, and appearing dead. The video highlights how these myths were shaped by cultural stories and medical misunderstandings.

Which cultural folklore includes spirits that drain life away, similar to vampire myths?

• Norse

• Chinese

• Greek

• Egyptian

What is the main cause of the medical condition porphyria?

• Lack of vitamin D

• Excessive sun exposure

• Excess of porphyrin in the blood

• Deficiency of iron

What dietary deficiency leads to the condition known as palagra?

• Vitamin C and calcium

• Iron and magnesium

• Vitamin B3 and tryptophan

• Vitamin D and potassium

How did the change in staple food to corn contribute to the spread of palagra in Europe?

• Corn was more nutritious than wheat

• Corn lacked essential vitamins and tryptophan

• Corn was too expensive for most people

• Corn caused allergic reactions in many

What condition might explain the 'walking dead' aspect of vampire myths?

• Epilepsy

• Catalepsy

• Narcolepsy

• Insomnia