Aurora (US), Feb. 3 (The Conversation)
The COVID-19 pandemic shone a bright light on the overwhelming surge of misinformation, particularly about science and health. Even though the pandemic has eased, information overload continues—and so does public confusion, especially when health experts themselves sometimes disagree. In addition, there are those who deliberately misrepresent scientific findings to push their own agendas. A prime example is the food additive trisodium phosphate, commonly used in cakes and cookies to improve texture and shelf life. Because a chemically similar compound is used in paint and cleaning products, some wellness influencers exploit this coincidence to claim trisodium phosphate is harmful—even though research shows it’s safe in approved quantities.
Social media has become a hotbed for such misleading claims, accelerating the spread of pseudoscientific views and creating widespread misconceptions. In the domain of health and nutrition, these distortions are especially rampant. Research into nutrition often yields complex and sometimes conflicting results, partly because diet is only one factor among many that affect health. That leaves fertile ground for “magic bullet” or “cure-all” narratives that hold an undeniable allure—despite the fact that good, evidence-based solutions usually aren’t that simple.
Evaluating Pseudoscientific Claims with Proven Research
As an assistant professor specializing in medical education and science communication, I train future scientists and health care professionals on how to share accurate, research-based information with the public. In my view, the best way to counter the loud voices promoting pseudoscience is to highlight the solid science behind disease prevention.Decades of rigorous study have given rise to well-established health practices and public health measures proven to benefit millions of people worldwide. Using these findings as a benchmark can help people determine which trending health advice is credible and which is better ignored.
The Maze of Conflicting Information
Contradictory tips about what we eat and drink are everywhere—one day, coffee is a lifesaver; the next, it’s a health risk. This seesaw arises because scientific studies seldom yield universally applicable results. For instance, the effects of coffee on an individual’s health can depend on genetics, existing medical conditions, and consumption levels.Confusion intensifies around supplements. Apple cider vinegar (ACV), for instance, is championed as an all-natural remedy for everything from digestive problems to urinary health and weight management. While small-scale studies suggest some limited benefits—like potentially lowering cholesterol—most findings are inconclusive. Advocates often highlight “the mother,” the sediment of bacteria and yeast at the bottom of the bottle, yet no research supports its supposed special health benefits.
Key takeaway: Health “hacks” that promise quick, dramatic results are usually too good to be true. And when supplements do have genuine benefits, remember that many of these products are not strictly regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). That leaves consumers at risk of unlisted and potentially harmful ingredients.
How Nutrition Facts Get Twisted
It’s undeniable that good nutrition is essential to health. Research consistently shows a varied diet helps prevent chronic disease and promote overall well-being. Specific nutrients like calcium, iron, proteins, and healthy fats each play a vital role in bodily functions.However, pseudoscientific claims often use such facts as starting points before stretching them beyond credibility—like insisting a particular vitamin or supplement can singlehandedly prevent illnesses. Take vitamin C: while it can reduce the duration of colds, overloading on it won’t stop you from getting sick in the first place. Excess vitamin C is simply flushed out of the body.
Some companies also claim their supplements are “scientifically proven” to deliver miraculous benefits, such as curing illness or boosting brain power—yet offer no credible research to back it up. Others emphasize perceived benefits while ignoring serious risks. Raw milk, for example, is sometimes billed as a more “natural” choice than pasteurized milk, despite the real danger of harmful bacteria that can cause severe gastrointestinal diseases.
Remember: Believing in dietary myths can lead people to neglect other crucial elements of health—like regular medical checkups or even life-saving treatments, including chemotherapy or radiation for cancer. Replacing proven medical interventions with unproven nutritional regimens can have dire consequences.
Spotting the Warning Signs of Fake Science
Pseudoscience targets your emotions. Most of us want control over our health, and this desire can make us vulnerable. Some supplements claim to “boost immunity” by using appealing but hollow terms like “adaptogens” and “superfoods.” These terms have no official scientific meaning; they’re marketing buzzwords devised to sell products.How do you protect yourself? Here’s a simple checklist:
- Check Your Emotions: If a claim sparks immediate fear, anger, or excitement, pause and look deeper. Extreme emotional reactions can be a red flag.
- Verify Expertise: Does the source have genuine qualifications in the relevant field? Lack of expertise is a warning sign.
- Seek Reputable Sources: Ask yourself if the source is recognized by the scientific community. Sources like peer-reviewed journals and respected institutions are generally more reliable.
- Look for Supporting Evidence: Real science is cumulative. If no other studies or reputable voices support the claim, consider turning elsewhere.