By Alison Crane
Confused by the wealth of information on the web? Here are some hints to finding credible information.
The internet really is a great place to find out about “stuff.” Even young children tell their parents or teachers to “google it” when they do not know an answer. Unfortunately, with so much information available it can be hard to separate fact from fiction.
Anyone can set up a webpage or start a blog and become an instant expert. Sometimes the advice they give is sound and really works, but it can be difficult to know who to trust for accurate nutrition or family health advice.
Culling out inaccurate information can be difficult. When you are trying to navigate the world wide web, here are a few tips to help guide you through all of the diet trends and misinformation:
~Be Smart About Your Internet Search – use a free scholarly search engine such as Google Scholar or PubMed.
~Use Credible Research-Based Websites – the domain used at the end of the URL can indicate whether the information has been scientifically or governmentally reviewed for accuracy. Look for domains such as .edu, .org, and .gov.
~Not Everyone on Social Media Is Your Nutrition Friend – watch for a blue check mark, also known as a verified badge, after an account’s name. This shows they have validated credentials or resources providing information on their account.
~Only Trust Licensed Professionals – a credential demonstrates that they have sufficient educational background, expertise and/or in-depth knowledge about a topic.
The internet is a great resource and I, personally, have benefited many times by watching a YouTube video or surfing the web for a recipe or how-to tip. If you would like more information on determining if what you are reading about nutrition on the internet is true, visit our website www.uaex.edu or come by our office at 236 Woodbine St., Hot Springs and browse through our many Fact Sheets.
Alison Crane is a Family and Consumer Science Agent with the Garland County Extension Service. The Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service offers its programs to all eligible persons regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, gender, age, disability, marital or veteran status, or any other legally protected status, and is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.
