It seems that on social media today, many people are self-proclaimed nutrition experts. Log on to Facebook or Pinterest and you won’t search long before you find someone selling workout plans, meal plans, diet supplements, or other weight-loss aids. Google “diets” or “weight-loss” and you will find hundreds of popular and even crazy diets for weight-loss. So if all of this is available, who are the real experts? How do you know if these products and diets are safe? What will work for you?
Although there are many reliable nutritional resources online, it is important to always question the source. Many of the information obtained from Pinterest or Facebook or from people selling these products is not necessarily reliable or the best fit for your body and health.
Registered Dietitians are trained and educated to provide the most accurate, science-based, and up-to-date nutritional information. Dietitians are one of the best ways to seek out questions about supplements, eating habits, weight-loss goals, or other nutrition concerns with a clinical and healthy approach.
So next time you see an add for weight-loss or nutritional programs online, ask yourself a few important screening questions:
Is the program supervised or created by a health professional?
Does this program sound safe for my body?
Does this program sound like something I could enjoy doing?
Is the cost of this program financially feasible?
Is this a program I want to use forever?
The truth is that healthy living and mindful choices are a lifelong endeavor. No program, supplement, or magic pill is typically going to be something you want to commit to using (or spending money on) for the rest of your life. It is important to remember and value sustainability when choosing a wellness and nutritional lifestyle. Making the choice to fuel your body with good foods and be active for life is the key to good health and weight management. If you have questions or seek guidance for your nutritional or wellness needs, call or visit your Brown Clinic Registered Dietitian, Kelsey Raml!
-Written by Mariah Hodne, SDSU Dietetic Student
