Nutritional claims, advice need backing from health care pros

Every day we are bombarded with nutritional advice, from blogs, gyms, products, well-intentioned friends and, well, newspaper columns.

But how do you know if what’s “real” information or if someone is just trying to scam you and make a buck?

Good nutrition advice is supported by evidence and lets you know if findings are based more on theory than science.

But even if there is research, double and triple check your sources.

Among reliable sources are usually Universities and accredited hospitals.

You do not need to understand everything that is written (trust me, statistics/research practices are above me) simply ask for the research behind claims.

If your source quotes one study, ask if that reflects all of the science in the area.

If they act flustered, you know they haven’t done their homework.

This is particularly useful when people offer their opinions.

Be leery of strong, unsupported claims.

A big red flag for nutrition advice is strong statements saying X causes Y.Think of those commercials for weight loss supplements that claim a 30-pound weight loss in a month without diet and exercise. You don’t buy that claim, do you?

But claims like this are not restricted to weight loss. There are a lot of unscrupulous people out there trying to sell a “cure.”

How often have you heard someone say, “this worked for me, you should do it.” Or “Well, when you were a baby, I did…”?

Just because something worked for one person does not mean it’s a panacea.

We’ve learned a lot over the years and what Grandma did with her kids may very well be considered dangerous today.

Anectdotal advice should never overrule science-based information that shows it doesn’t work or may even be dangerous.

Beware of one-size-fits-all advice with no flexibility. Use common sense. If the advice seems crazy strict and doesn’t allow flexibility for your likes/dislikes or your lifestyle, it will be difficult to maintain.

Quick-fix promises should also be questioned. Remember the old adage, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is!

Watch out for simplified nutrition advice from doctors if you or a family member is diagnosed with a nutrition-related disease such as obesity, diabetes, or heart disease.

This advice might include no sugar, eat small portions, or outdated mimeographed copies! I have heard such things as an MDwho told a Type 2 diabetic that they could no longer have fruit, milk and baby carrots. NO! There is NO such thing as a “diabetic” diet. It all comes down to moderation, healthy habits and positive choices.

I had an RN tell me that I needed to talk to a patient who needed to have a lower dairy intake because she had butter in her fridge. Butter is considered a fat, not a “dairy” product.

People really are well meaning, but not always well informed.

When in doubt, ask for a referral to a registered dietitian.

There are many areas of nutrition that are specialized and I am not qualified to get into the nitty gritty.

They will look at the big picture, spend time educating you, and provide customized advice.

Most doctors simply don’t have the time or specific nutrition knowledge to counsel on diet.

I know that there is often conflicting information out there but be skeptical, dig until you find the credible information you deserve.

You’ll be happier and potentially safer in the long run!

Have a good one everyone!