The internet can be a fantastic place to search, network, and learn new things. It can also be a hotspot for misinformation, or maybe exaggerated claims. How do you know what might be sensible and might seem a little fishy?
Stop! Where’s the Evidence?
Should you come across an online article with a big, bold claim like “This burns fat instantly!”; it’s a good idea to question it. The media often gets the wrong end of the stick when it comes to scientific studies, leading to headlines that seem to good to be true. And they probably are. You can filter out sensible or silly claims by looking for evidence. This doesn’t mean you have to read 1,000 scientific papers or become a dietitian. If you read an article, think: Where is the evidence? Has the article mentioned it? What are the recommendations? Where can I find out more?
Where Do I Look?
Below is a list of organisations promoting evidence-based nutrition! All these organisations require the people involved to be qualified and follow a Code of Conduct. They will have the know-how to provide you with as much information as possible, so you can make an informed decision. There are lots of organisations which may seem like ‘information overload’. When you think about how many crazy headlines there are, it’s good to know there is lots of help there! You can ask qualified professionals in person, visit websites, or even use mobile apps like Change4Life for sugar swaps and physical activity ideas! Always question a headline if it sounds too good to be true. Search for advice from fully-qualified professionals or organisations led by teams of professionals. Try not to jump to a conclusion based on one headline. Think carefully. There is an explanation behind the recommendations for nutrition, and these guys help make it simple and useful for us! Happy eating!
Resources
Organisation |
Website |
Social Media (Twitter and Facebook) |
British Dietetic Association |
@BDA_Dietitians
https://www.facebook.com/BritishDieteticAssociation/
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National Health Service |
@NHSEngland
https://www.facebook.com/NHSwebsite/
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NHS – Change4Life |
@Change4Life
https://www.facebook.com/change4life/
|
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Association for Nutrition |
@AfN_UK_
https://www.facebook.com/Associationfornutrition/
|
|
British Nutrition Foundation |
@BNFEvents
|
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SACN (and Public Health England) |
https://www.gov.uk/government/groups/scientific-advisory-committee-on-nutrition |
@PHE_uk
https://www.facebook.com/PublicHealthEngland/
|
Sport and Exercise Nutrition Register |
@SENregister |
Article by Liam Oliver.
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