Beware,its a web of claims

We must realise that there are no directives for posting on the internet. Anyone who has the tools can set up a website and post any content he or she likes. Although,The Health on the Net Foundation has set up a code of conduct for medical and health websites,following them is voluntary.

It is,therefore,important to consider the source (if you can tell what it is!). Many websites do not specify where the content came from,who is responsible for it,or how often it is updated. If the site lists the authors,what are their credentials? Who sponsors the site itself? Educational institutions (.edu),government agencies (.gov),and organizations (.org),generally have more credibility than commercial (.com) sites,where selling rather than educating may be the motive. Understanding the purpose for a site can often give you insights about the validity of its contents.

Be wary of claims for nutrients,dietary supplements,or other products,and results of studies or other information. Keep in mind the scientific method and the basics of sound science. Question,who did the study?

People usually tend to believe what they hear repeatedly,even if it has no scientific basis. This is particularly true of stories related to obesity,cancer,vitamins,minerals and food safety.

Research is like placing stones on an old-fashioned balance scale. When enough weight accumulates on one side,the scale tips in favour of a particular recommendation. And the more weight there is on one side,the stronger the recommendation is and the more evidence it would take to change it. Therefore,research is dynamic and interpretations and conclusions based on it need to be carefully analyzed. One study does not provide all the answers to our questions.

So,be on the look out for junk science,sloppy methods of interpretation and claims that often lead to public misinformation. Think critically about the contents and source just because it is in print or online doesn’t mean,its true.