Nutrition has become a popular topic of discussion. We hear about it on the radio, on television talk shows, in magazines and books, in advertisements, in the news, online, and in casual conversations. Should we believe everything we hear? Is all nutritional information based on credible research or is it anecdotal? Was what we heard misunderstood, misinterpreted or deliberately misleading? These and other questions we should ask before we can be sure the information is accurate.
When encountering seemingly new nutritional information, it is important to check the background and expertise of the person presenting the information and anyone cited on the topic. Where did they get the information? Is their expertise related to the topic? Is the person qualified to interpret scientific research? Is the information presented in a professional manner?
If the information is in article or other written form, does the author provide current references for research studies that sufficiently support the information? If the article ends up in a publication, what is its reputation? Is the author or publication presenting the information in an unbiased manner or could they have an ulterior motive?
What is the purpose of the author or speaker? Is the information intended for educational purposes or is it more related to selling a product or receiving financial gain from providing the information? Do they have another direct interest in providing the information?
Does the information seem sensational? Does this seem to contradict the scientific evidence accepted so far on the subject? Has the information been taken out of context and expanded?
Is this based on one study or many studies? Do the studies involve humans or animals? Was the study carried out using a test tube or on the human body? Is the sample size large or small? For example, was it thirty people or three thousand people? Was this done for a short or long period of time that could possibly affect the outcome?
Even within research, the quality of studies can vary. A good source of information would be well-conducted clinical trials, usually large, participants are randomized and a double-blind format is followed. They use an experimental group (which receives some form of controlled intervention) and a control group (placebo/no intervention). These types of studies can show us cause and effect.
In contrast, observational studies cannot tell us cause and effect, but can suggest where further research might be warranted. One type of observational (cross-sectional) study looks for similar characteristics among participants at one point in time rather than over a longer period of time.
In a prospective (also observational) study, participants are studied over time. Researchers look for associations between participants and a specified outcome. Again, they cannot explain cause and effect to us.
A meta-analysis is based on a systematic review of several research studies conducted on the same topic. It can statistically determine consistent results between these studies. When results from a number of studies agree, this can provide more support for the findings.
When considering new nutritional information, be aware of your own biases. If the information seems to contradict your previous beliefs, try to keep an open mind and study the information more thoroughly.
In some cases, use common sense. Does the information seem too good to be true? Does this suggest going to extremes to get a result? Does it promise a quick solution to a complex problem? Is it presented as something “new”?
Note that some nutritional information may apply to some people but not others. This is especially true if it may affect a health condition or medication. Genetics and personal and family medical history should also play a role in deciding whether to follow a particular nutritional recommendation.
Consider contacting one or more trusted health professionals who could give you an opinion on the subject. For example, if the question concerns a product such as a new medication, talk to your pharmacist. If this specifically concerns nutrition or supplements, ask a registered dietitian. You can also check the websites of credible government agencies, respected professional organizations, and major health organizations to see if the topic is mentioned there.
So, before you accept as fact what you hear about a particular nutrition topic, do your homework. In some cases, there is no harm in following these tips, but in others, it can have a major negative impact on your health. This would be especially true if you are suffering from certain medical conditions related to the result of your beliefs on the subject, possible lifestyle changes you intend to make, or the consumption of a product that could be harmful.
Pam Stuppy, MS, RD, CSSD, LD is a registered dietitian with nutrition consulting offices in York, Maine and Portsmouth, New Hampshire. She has also served as a nutritionist at Phillips Exeter Academy, presents workshops nationally, and is board certified as a sports dietetics specialist. (See www.pamstuppynutrition.com for more nutritional information, healthy cooking tips and recipe ideas.