Most people are interested in nutrition, health, and fitness. We’re all bombarded with information about nutrition and/or health in magazines and newspapers, on TV, and online through social media, blogs, and YouTube videos. Also, family and friends might share information with us.
When you have a question about your health or need some information, where do you first turn? With all this information, how do we separate fact from fiction? What are the clues to reliable health information in today’s fast-paced world? Health information is easy to find. However, finding reliable health information takes a little effort. This article will help you sort through the vast amount of nutrition and health-related information that is available.
Be a Health Information Detective
With a bit of detective work, you can find information you can trust. Take a moment and consider these questions before making changes to your lifestyle or sharing health information with your friends and family.
- Source: Who is providing the information?
Check who wrote or reviewed the content. If the person or organization in charge of the site did not write the material, it should clearly identify the original source of the information. If it is an organization, what can you learn about it by reviewing the “About” section of its website and conducting a web search on it? If it is an “expert,” do they have expertise in the topic? Is their contact information easy to find? Is there contact information for the organization, such as an email or phone number?
Pay attention to the web address (also called a URL). Look for “.gov,” “.edu,” or “.org” in the address. A “.gov” address means a government agency runs the site. A “.edu” address indicates an educational institution. And a “.org” address often means a professional or non-profit organization runs the site. A “.com” address means a commercial website or a for-profit company runs the site. It may still have some good information, but the content may be biased.
- Funding: Where does the funding come from?
It costs money to create and maintain a website. Check the “About” section and search the web for the author or organization. Are they selling a product? Are ads clearly labeled as paid promotions?
- Purpose: What is the site’s purpose?
The webpage should clearly state the site’s purpose and help you evaluate the trustworthiness of its information. Funding sources and organizational goals often influence content.
- Evidence: Is there research supporting the claim?
Content is more reliable if it is based on scientific studies. Check that the claim is supported by multiple research studies completed and reviewed by specialists. A single research study is often not enough. Look for links to research articles or a reference section. Be skeptical of claims that sound too good to be true.
Compare information across credible websites and check that it’s current (within the last 2–3 years).
Trusted Sources for Health Information
Here are some reputable websites offering free, evidence-based health and nutrition resources:
■ Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics provides information on nutrition and health; www.eatright.org
■ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides health information on diseases, health risks, and prevention guidelines;www.cdc.gov
■ Extension Foundation provides access to resources at land-grant universities across the country; https://extension.org/search
■ Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates food and drugs, and oversees dietary supplements; www.fda.gov
■ Healthfinder is a U.S. Department of Health and Human Services gateway site that provides links to reviewed resources on consumer health; www.healthfinder.gov
■ The National Institutes of Health (NIH), a part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, is the nation’s medical research agency; https://www.nih.gov
■ U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans provides tips about healthful eating, which are updated based on current research every five years; www.health.gov/dietaryguidelines
■ University of Wyoming Extension has many online publications and links to reliable information sources; https://uwyoextension.org/uwnutrition
Putting Reliable Information to Work
Once you’ve identified trustworthy sources, you can confidently use health information to enhance your understanding and support your well-being. Here are some ways to put this knowledge into action:
- Get useful tips on healthy lifestyle habits, such as diet and exercise.
- Prepare for medical appointments by researching conditions, symptoms, or treatments from reliable sources.
- Stay informed about public health alerts, immunizations, and travel advisories.
- Access educational resources to help manage chronic conditions and support loved ones.
Educating yourself about health issues is an important part of managing your well-being. Use online information as a tool – not a substitute for professional care. Always discuss what you find with your healthcare provider before making changes to your health plan.
With a little detective work, you can confidently separate fact from fiction and make informed decisions for a healthier life.
Written by Vicki Hayman, MS, University of Wyoming Extension Community Vitality & Health Educator
Sources:
- North Dakota State University Extension, www.ndsu.edu
- National Institute on Aging, www.nia.nih.gov
- National Institute of Health, ods.od.nih.gov
- University of Wyoming Extension, uwyoextension.org/uwnutrition