There is always going to be a study supporting one diet or product over another. So how are we to decide what is sound medical/nutrition advice? Let’s break it down into the right questions to ask:
1. Can you find the source of the study? You will find many Instagram posts, diet guru articles, and news outlets stating “Studies show….”. If a specific study is cited, find it and read it. Find out who sponsored the study, how large the study was, etc. For example, if a study is done on the positive effects of soy on health, but was sponsored by the American Soybean Association and had only 10 patients in it, we don’t put much stock in that. However, if the study was out of an unaffiliated center, and had hundreds of participants, we can consider it more valid. (There are still many other factors involved, but this info will quickly tell you if you should close your browser window on an article or keep reading).
2. Who is giving you the information? There are many influencers on social media today who are paid to give their two cents. Are they experts? No! They are the modern day equivalent of a paid T.V. commercial ad. Ask yourself, is this a medical professional? What is their degree? Is it accredited and nationally recognized?
3. Are they trying to sell you something? Many times you will find what is called “click-bait” online. Pseudo-practitioners will cite studies showing that they have a miracle product. If something seems too good to be true, it is. Real medical practitioners know that science is an ever-changing field of study, and will not promote miracle cures. Any product or supplement that claims to “cure everything” will at best swindle you out of your money, or at worst, harm you with unsafe ingredients.
Those with chronic illnesses such as Ehlers Danlos Syndrome, Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome, and Mast Cell Disease are at particular risk of being taken advantage of since there aren’t many treatments available. Be careful what you read out there- ask questions! Knowledge is power, but only if the knowledge comes from reputable sources.