How to Identify Credible Nutrition Resources and Sound Scientific Research

Fact or Fiction? Health Magazines are credible sources of nutrition information. Nutritionists are licensed professionals capable of giving sound nutrition advice. An author who makes a statement about nutrition in a published book has a legal obligation to tell the truth.

Credible Nutrition Sources People qualified to give nutrition advice: Registered Dieticians (R.D., L.D.) PhD. In Food Science, Biochemistry Physician (especially one specializing in gastroenterology) Dietetic Technician, Registered. (limited scope. No MNT)

Other Sources Print or digital sources of nutrition are credible if: The information is provided by qualified professionals The information originates from a reputable institution such as a hospital, university, or professional society. The information source does not have a conflict of interest. Profit from the information, helping an ally, or hindering a rival. Navigator.tufts.edu

Quackery or Health Fraud Promotion of a product or service that is fraudulent or misrepresents its beneficial or curative potential. Potentially harmful. Includes acts of commission, omission and complete innocence.

How to identify a Quack Money up front Free trial Panacea No reliable scientific source One source Testimonials Too good to be true

Sound Scientific Research Types of Research Epidemiological. Whole populations Case. One individual Intervention. Group with control Laboratory. Animals. Very controlled

Scientific Process Observe Establish a hypothesis Define unit of analysis and variables Design experiment Controls, randomization, sample size, blinded, double blinded, crossover. Analysis of data. Correlation vs. causation. Reject or accept hypothesis Replication Funding

Reliable Nutrition Websites guidelines Navigator.tufts.edu