In the world we live today, and the many ways we receive information, you might find it hard to know what nutrition and weight management advice to trust or avoid. Although it can be confusing, there are a few things you can do to spot safe, reliable information.
Read beyond the headlines
Often a headline is used to grab your attention and does not reflect the actual advice. Read past the headline to find out what the real information includes.
Check the source – is it trusted?
Is the information given by someone qualified in nutrition? You can check if they are a nutrition expert and regulated in the UK through AfN for Registered Nutritionists (RNutr) or the HCPC for Registered Dietitians (RD):
- Search the Register - Association for Nutrition
- Check the register and find a registered health and care professional
Also, look for ‘RD’ or ‘RNutr’ next to the name.
If in doubt, check with official sources
Double check the information with official sources such as Public Health Wales (PHW), NHS, or the British Dietetic Association (BDA). Do they say the same thing?
If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is!
Safe, realistic nutrition and weight management advice will not encourage you to go for quick fixes or fast, extreme weight loss over a short time.
Be careful when a product or company sponsors the information or a person
This may promote a product or a company’s interest instead of providing accurate, safe nutrition advice.
Regulated nutrition and other health professionals do not sell supplements or diet products
If the information encourages or links to buy a product, be careful. Check with a qualified nutrition professional.
Advice promoting ‘superfoods’ is false and misleading
There are no ‘superfoods.’ A healthy balanced diet can support your health, but no single food or supplement can ‘boost’ your immune system.
Avoid advice that recommends removing foods or food groups entirely from your diet
Official healthy eating advice does not recommend cutting out foods or food groups unless a health professional has advised you.
Next time you read food-related information in the media, consider these points before you trust the advice.
Credible Advice Tips
