health and wellness
Nutrition advice is rife with misinformation − a medical education specialist explains how to tell valid health information from pseudoscience
Last Updated on February 1, 2025 by Daily News Staff
Aimee Pugh Bernard, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus
The COVID-19 pandemic illuminated a vast landscape of misinformation about many topics, science and health chief among them.
Since then, information overload continues unabated, and many people are rightfully confused by an onslaught of conflicting health information. Even expert advice is often contradictory.
On top of that, people sometimes deliberately distort research findings to promote a certain agenda. For example, trisodium phosphate is a common food additive in cakes and cookies that is used to improve texture and prevent spoilage, but wellness influencers exploit the fact that a similarly named substance is used in paint and cleaning products to suggest it’s dangerous to your health.
Such claims can proliferate quickly, creating widespread misconceptions and undermining trust in legitimate scientific research and medical advice. Social media’s rise as a news and information source further fuels the spread of pseudoscientific views.
Misinformation is rampant in the realm of health and nutrition. Findings from nutrition research is rarely clear-cut because diet is just one of many behaviors and lifestyle factors affecting health, but the simplicity of using food and supplements as a cure-all is especially seductive.
I am an assistant professor specializing in medical education and science communication. I also train scientists and future health care professionals how to communicate their science to the general public.
In my view, countering the voices of social media influencers and health activists promoting pseudoscientific health claims requires leaning into the science of disease prevention. Extensive research has produced a body of evidence-based practices and public health measures that have consistently been shown to improve the health of millions of people around the world. Evaluating popular health claims against the yardstick of this work can help distinguish which ones are based on sound science.
Navigating the terrain of tangled information
Conflicting information can be found on just about everything we eat and drink.
That’s because a food or beverage is rarely just good or bad. Instead, its health effects can depend on everything from the quantity a person consumes to their genetic makeup. Hundreds of scientific studies describe coffee’s health benefits and, on the flip side, its health risks. A bird’s-eye view can point in one direction or another, but news articles and social media posts often make claims based on a single study.
Things can get even more confusing with dietary supplements because people who promote them often make big claims about their health benefits. Take apple cider vinegar, for example – or ACV, if you’re in the know.
Apple cider vinegar has been touted as an all-natural remedy for a variety of ailments, including digestive issues, urinary health and weight management. Indeed, some studies have shown that it might help lower cholesterol, in addition to having other health benefits, but overall those studies have small sample sizes and are inconclusive.
Advocates of this substance often claim that one particular component of it – the cloudy sediment at the bottom of the bottle termed “the mother” – is especially beneficial because of the bacteria and yeast it contains. But there is no research that backs the claim that it offers any health benefits.
One good rule of thumb is that health hacks that promise quick fixes are almost always too good to be true. And even when supplements do offer some health benefits under specific circumstances, it’s important to remember that they are largely exempt from Food and Drug Administration regulations. That means the ingredients on their labels might contain more or less of the ingredients promised or other ingredients not listed, which can potentially cause harms such as liver toxicity.
It’s also important to keep in mind that the global dietary supplements industry is worth more than US$150 billion per year, so companies – and wellness influencers – selling supplements have a financial stake in convincing the public of their value. https://www.youtube.com/embed/VM1zCZLCClM?wmode=transparent&start=0 Misinformation about nutrition is nothing new, but that doesn’t make it any less confusing.
How nutrition science gets twisted
There’s no doubt that good nutrition is fundamental for your health. Studies consistently show that a balanced diet containing a variety of essential nutrients can help prevent chronic diseases and promote overall well-being.
For instance, minerals such as calcium and iron support bone health and oxygen circulation in the blood, respectively. Proteins are essential for muscle repair and growth, and healthy fats, like those found in avocados and nuts, are vital for brain health.
However, pseudoscientific claims often twist such basic facts to promote the idea that specific diets or supplements can prevent or treat illness. For example, vitamin C is known to play a role in supporting the immune system and can help reduce the duration and severity of colds.
But despite assertions to the contrary, consuming large quantities of vitamin C does not prevent colds. In fact, the body needs only a certain amount of vitamin C to function properly, and any excess is simply excreted.
Companies sometimes claim their supplement is “scientifically proven” to cure illness or boost brain function, with no credible research to back it up.
Some companies overstate the benefits while underplaying the hazards.
For example, wellness influencers have promoted raw milk over pasteurized milk as a more natural and nutritious choice, but consuming it is risky. Unpasteurized milk can contain harmful bacteria that leads to gastrointestinal illness and, in some cases, much more serious and potentially life-threatening diseases such as avian influenza, or bird flu.
Such dietary myths aren’t harmless. Reliance on nutrition alone can lead to neglecting other critical aspects of health, such as regular medical checkups and lifesaving vaccinations.
The lure of dietary myths has led people with cancer to replace proven science-backed treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation, with unproven and misleading nutrition programs.
How to spot less-than-solid science
Pseudoscience exploits your insecurities and emotions, taking advantage of your desire to live the healthiest life possible.
While the world around you may be uncertain and out of your control, you want to believe that at the very least, you have control over your own health. This is where the wellness industry steps in.
What makes pseudoscientific claims so confusing is that they use just enough scientific jargon to sound believable. Supplements or powders that claim to “boost immunity” often list ingredients such as adaptogens and superfoods. While these words sound real and convincing, they actually don’t mean anything in science. They are terms created by the wellness industry to sell products.
I’ve researched and written about reliable ways to distinguish science facts from false health claims. To stay alert and find credible information, I’d suggest you follow a few key steps.
First, check your emotions – strong emotional reactions, such as fear and anger, can be a red flag.
Next, check that the author has experience or expertise in the field of the topic. If they’re not an expert, they might not know what they are talking about. It’s always a good idea to make sure the source is reputable – ask yourself, would this source be trusted by scientists?
Finally, search for references that back up the information. If very little or nothing else exists in the science world to back up the claims, you may want to put your trust in a different source.
Following these steps will separate the facts from fake news and empower you to make evidence-based decisions.
Aimee Pugh Bernard, Assistant Professor of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus
This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
Consumer Corner
Cold cities are the most ready for winter, with one exception. See where your city ranks
Cold cities? Every neighborhood has a mix of homeowners who approach seasonal home maintenance differently – there are the people who stay on schedule, and on the other end, the procrastinators. There are the dedicated DIYers, and those who have their favorite maintenance pro saved as a favorite contact in their phone. As it turns out, cities are no different. Some metropolitan areas keep their neighborhoods in tip-top shape, while others are a little more slow-going.
Cold cities are the most ready for winter, with one exception. See where your city ranks
(Sheeka Sanahori) Every neighborhood has a mix of homeowners who approach seasonal home maintenance differently – there are the people who stay on schedule, and on the other end, the procrastinators. There are the dedicated DIYers, and those who have their favorite maintenance pro saved as a favorite contact in their phone. As it turns out, cities are no different. Some metropolitan areas keep their neighborhoods in tip-top shape, while others are a little more slow-going.
New data from home services company Angi, covering fall maintenance activity in August, reveals which U.S. metropolitan areas are the most proactive with fall maintenance. Washington, D.C., tops the ranking with the strongest demand for fall maintenance in the country, followed by Columbus, Ohio, and Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Northern cities dominate the rest of the list.
Cleveland, Ohio, and Albany-Schenectady-Troy, New York, round out the top five. Cold-weather markets dominate the ranking, accounting for eight of the 10 most-prepared metros. Rochester, New York; Charlotte, North Carolina; Chicago; Indianapolis; and Pittsburgh complete the top 10.
Least fall-ready metros
Fewer than 1 in 5 American cities is prepping for fall at an above-average rate. Among the 66 metros that recorded at least 100 fall maintenance service requests during the analysis period, Los Angeles had the lowest level of per-capita activity, followed by Oklahoma City and Riverside, California. California accounts for four of the bottom 10 markets, with Los Angeles, Riverside, San Diego and San Francisco all appearing on the list. These metros historically don’t experience the colder winter climates of the Northeast and Midwest, making fall maintenance less of an imperative.
Grand Rapids, Michigan, stands out as the only clearly cold-weather metro among the 10 least-prepared large metros. The New York City metro, which includes Newark and Jersey City, ranked just outside the 10 least-prepared large metros, coming in at number 11. Other New York state metros, including Syracuse, Rochester and the Albany metro area, were on the most prepared list.
Homeowners are choosing upkeep over upgrades
Sixty-three percent of homeowners who have recently hired a professional completed maintenance work, and 58% completed repairs. Although they may be waiting to do that dream kitchen or bath renovation, they’re focusing for now on the maintenance that keeps their homes in order.
The most common fall maintenance projects focus on outdoor upkeep. Nationally, tree trimming was the most popular, followed by lawn and yard waste cleanup and shrub care.
What homeowners should do now
When tackling a home maintenance list, start at the top of the home by inspecting the roof and gutters. Look for loose or damaged shingles, and make sure gutters are debris-free. It’s also a good idea to ensure downspouts direct water far away from the foundation. Homeowners should inspect these areas from the ground or hire a professional if the work requires climbing or feels unsafe.
Next, check for drafts around the windows and doors. Replacing worn weatherstripping and damaged caulk in the fall can prevent warm air from escaping once the heat comes back on. Homeowners should also inspect their HVAC filters and have the heating system checked before the temperatures drop.
Every home’s maintenance needs will vary, depending on the age and condition of the house and where it’s located. Whether homeowners hire a professional or safely address small issues, making the fixes can prevent larger and more expensive problems later.
The ranking: Metros from most to least prepared
America’s 10 Most Fall-Prepared Metros
1. Washington, D.C.
2. Columbus, Ohio
3. Milwaukee, Wisconsin
4. Cleveland, Ohio
5. Albany-Schenectady-Troy, New York
6. Rochester, New York
7. Charlotte, North Carolina
8. Chicago, Illinois
9. Indianapolis, Indiana
10. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
10 Metros With the Most Opportunity to Get Fall-Ready
1. Los Angeles, California
2. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
3. Riverside, California
4. Miami, Florida
5. San Diego, California
6. Houston, Texas
7. Grand Rapids, Michigan
8. San Francisco, California
9. Austin, Texas
10. Memphis, Tennessee
Methodology
The rankings are based on fall maintenance activity recorded on Angi during August 2026. Projects included yard cleanup, winterization, roofing and gutters, heating systems, water and drainage, outdoor plumbing, fireplaces and chimneys, pest prevention, and snow and storm preparation. U.S. metropolitan areas were ranked by activity per 100,000 residents using 2020 U.S. Census population data. To qualify for the least-prepared ranking, metros were required to have at least five service requests or jobs during the analysis period. The rankings reflect activity on Angi’s platform and are not a complete measure of all home-maintenance activity within each metro. These rankings reflect activity observed on Angi’s platform and should not be interpreted as a complete measure of all home-maintenance behavior within a metro area.
Photo courtesy of Shutterstock
SOURCE:
Angi
Health
Type 2 Diabetes Doesn’t Have to Be Your Future: Medicare Has a Benefit That Can Help
Left unchecked, prediabetes can progress to type 2 diabetes. However, with the right support, prediabetes can often be managed or even reversed. If you have Medicare, you may qualify for a Medicare-covered program that can help you lower your chances of developing type 2 diabetes – at no cost to you.
(Feature Impact) Nearly 1 in 2 people age 65 and older has prediabetes – a condition where blood sugar (glucose) levels run higher than normal. Left unchecked, prediabetes can progress to type 2 diabetes. However, with the right support, prediabetes can often be managed or even reversed. If you have Medicare, you may qualify for a Medicare-covered program that can help you lower your chances of developing type 2 diabetes – at no cost to you.
The Medicare Diabetes Prevention Program is a covered Medicare benefit that gives you practical tools, personalized support, and proven strategies to make healthy lifestyle changes. Learn how to eat better, exercise more, and build healthy habits that stick while guided by a certified coach who helps you every step of the way.
Research shows the program works. People with prediabetes who complete the program result in weight loss, which ultimately leads to reduced risk of type 2 diabetes onset.
What can you expect?
Prevention does not mean you have to make big changes all at once. This program helps you take small, realistic steps that can add up to lasting results. It includes 16 core sessions where you can learn how to reduce your diabetes risk by making healthier meals, moving more, and building healthy habits.
The core sessions are followed by six months of monthly maintenance sessions to help you keep your momentum.
You can choose the class format that works for you
You can enroll in these services from approved Medicare Diabetes Prevention Program suppliers and participate in the way most convenient for you:
- In-Person: Attend sessions in a community location.
- Live-Distance Learning: Join interactive group sessions from home.
- Self-Paced Online: This new option allows you to access online content and learn on your own schedule.
Visit www.medicare.gov/PreventDiabetes to find a class that’s right for you.
Who is eligible?
You may qualify if you are enrolled in Medicare Part B and meet these criteria:
- Have had one of the following test results within the past 12 months:
- Hemoglobin A1c between 5.7% and 6.4%
- Fasting plasma glucose between 110 and 125 mg/dL
- Two-hour plasma glucose between 140 and 199 mg/dL after an oral glucose tolerance test
- Have a body mass index (BMI) of 25 or higher (or 23 or higher if you self-report as Asian descent).
- Have never been diagnosed with type 1 or type 2 diabetes or end-stage renal disease (ESRD).
What does it cost?
If you have Medicare Part B and qualify for the program, you pay nothing to participate. If you are in a Medicare Advantage Plan, you may have to go to an in-network provider to get these services. Contact your plan for more information.
Ready to get started on your healthier future?
Take control of your health on your own terms, schedule, and pace that fits into your life. Check with your doctor to find out if you have prediabetes or are at risk for developing type 2 diabetes. If you’re eligible for the Medicare Diabetes Prevention Program, your doctor can refer you, or you can enroll on your own.
If you’re ready to get started today, find the class that’s right for you at: www.medicare.gov/PreventDiabetes.
Information provided by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Photos courtesy of Shutterstock
SOURCE:
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
(Feature Impact) Dry eye is one of the most overlooked symptoms of perimenopause, the phase of fluctuating hormones leading up to a woman’s final period, and menopause, the point in a woman’s life when she’s gone a year without a period.
In fact, 79% of women1 recognize hot flashes as a symptom of menopause, but only 14% recognize dry eye as a menopause-related symptom, according to the 2026 Bausch + Lomb (Peri)Menopausal Survey. What’s more, 78% of women1 were surprised to learn that dry eye is a symptom of perimenopause or menopause.
“Dry eye is still widely overlooked as a symptom of menopause, and many women think it’s just a minor nuisance, but the truth is it can significantly affect your daily life,” said Neda Gioia, OD, CNS, IFMCP, FOWNS, founder, Integrative Vision. “Early symptoms are often misunderstood or self-treated but it’s very important for women who experience symptoms to see an eye doctor and get an accurate diagnosis and treatment.”
During perimenopause and menopause, declining hormone levels can impact tear production, tear quality and tear evaporation, contributing to dry eye symptoms including redness, fluctuating vision and a gritty or tired feeling in the eyes, all of which can impact day-to-day comfort and quality of life. If left untreated, dry eyes may worsen over time, potentially impacting eye health and vision. Among peri-, menopausal and post-menopausal women who experienced dry eye, 80% said the symptom came as a surprise.
Respondents reported their dry eye symptoms caused difficulty reading (58%), difficulty using screens (53%), difficulty driving (26%) and reduced productivity (17%), underscoring the often-overlooked impact dry eyes can have on everyday life.1
However, there are a variety of products and treatment approaches available to help manage dry eye symptoms. For example, Bausch + Lomb offers a range of options designed to address the main causes of dry eye.
A doctor-recommended, clinically proven once-daily soft gel supplement that targets the key root causes of dry eyes, Blink NutriTears supports healthy tear production and provides lasting, continuous relief.* § As part of a comprehensive approach to dry eye management, the supplement can be used with Blink Triple Care Preservative Free Lubricant Eye Drops, which are designed to directly address tear evaporation, one of the leading causes of dry eye, and provide instant and long-lasting symptom relief.
An eye care professional can help determine the approach that’s right for each individual. To learn more about dry eye and products to help combat it, visit JustBlink.com.*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
12026 Bausch & Lomb (Peri)Menopause Survey via Suzy, n=402; Women ages 30–80+ who are perimenopausal, menopausal, or post-menopausal
§Based on a clinical study
SOURCE:
Bausch + Lomn
