(NYN) Reliable Sources of Nutrition Information Lesson

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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