With "TMI" (too much information) a frequently used expression there is an avalanche of health advice, "miracle" products and mixed blessings for food. Such advice is typically well-meaning, but some of it is misguided and even hazardous. In order to tell difference between evidence-based science and popular fiction in this digital jungle, you need a critical eye and sense of strategy.
01
Scrutinize the Source and Follow the Evidence
- This is the first step and also crucial: Even just where does information come from? Is it good Enough? It is understandable that you are distrustful of advice from unqualified influencers or websites that sell products. You have to know to go looking for information in databases with bibliographic references (books, articles and websites) and links back to the major medical journals such as the World Health Organization and its Centers for Disease Control, where all medical knowledge is peer reviewed. Professional health care workers. When you come across something that says "an article appeared in a Journal Name," watch out. Be smart now about claims that start, "They don't want you to know..." or "One trick the experts won't touch We care about your well-being."
02
Beware of Extreme Claims and "Quick Fix" Promises
- Physical science of health always advances with extreme slowness. Be very wary of advice that promises quick, dramatic results such as "lose 10 pounds in one week" or "reverse diabetes overnight." It's true that real health progress never happens overnight but gradually after an ongoing consistent effort. Also, beware any plan that cuts out entire food groups (unless you have a confirmed allergy or medical diagnosis, there's no need for it), touts a single "superfood" as magic bullet (it isn't), or pushes exclusivity.
03
Cross-Check and Consult a Professional
- Don't hang everything on one reference (no matter how flashy) trustable it might seem. Use "lateral reading" when you encounter a health claim that seems startling: Open up new browser tabs and look up what other reputable organizations have to say about this topic. Check and see if information is repeated independently by multiple authoritative sources. Above all, never let generalized information retrieved from the Internet replace tailored medical advice from your doctor.
Conclusion
Finally, there is the problem of information overload in this age: Only through applying ourselves to critical thinking and identifying what is genuinely true from what is false will we break free of it.
Methods
Details
Scrutinize the Source and Follow the Evidence
Looking for information in databases with bibliographic references and links back to the major medical journals.
Beware of Extreme Claims and "Quick Fix" Promises
True health progress always comes about gradually after a continuous regular effort.
Cross-Check and Consult a Professional
Practice "lateral reading" when you come across a health claim that seems surprising.
Conclusion
Applying ourselves to critical thinking and identifying what is genuinely true from what is false.
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