Reliable Sources of Nutrition Information

When you evaluate nutritional information, you want to consider the source. Who is making the claim? Testimonials are not a reliable source of information. Just because a product worked for one person, doesn't mean it will work for another.

Reliable Sources include

The Government: nutritional recommendations from the government are assembled by a group of experts who sift through the latest scientific studies.
Universities: nutritional information that comes from universities is backed by research that has been subjected to the scientific method; the scientific method is a systematic set of procedures that scientists follow to gain knowledge. Peer reviewed studies can be published in reputable journals and newsletters.
Reputable Organizations: nonprofit organizations such as The American Dietetic Association and The American Medical Association.
Registered Dietician: Registered dietitians are college-trained professionals who have extensive knowledge of foods, nutrition, and dietetics, the application of nutrition and food information to treat many health-related conditions. The title "registered dietitian" is legally protected.

Components to consider in determining if a source is reliable for nutrition information.

Who or what organization is providing the information?
Is the source reputable?
Is the information provided based on fact or biased by individual opinion?
Is the information balanced, providing both sides of an issue?
Is the organization or author trying to sell you a product?
When was the information posted?
Can the information be verified by other sources?
Does it simply sound too good to be true?

To protect yourself from misinformation when reading a nutritional claim, ask yourself - is the information too good to be true? Check the author's credentials to see if they are certified to provide nutritional advice. Finally, ask yourself - is something being sold? If so, read the information with caution.

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