Influencer or Expert? How to Decide What health information you can Trust

In today’s world, we’re surrounded by health advice—from social media, in podcasts, from influencers, and even your next-door neighbour in casual conversations. But how do you know what’s actually good advice, and what’s just a passing fad or misinformation? And if your cousin cured her autoimmune condition by rubbing lemon leaves on her elbow, will this work for your reflux?

As a dietitian, everyday I see first-hand how confusing and overwhelming it can be for people trying to make healthy choices. So in this article, I’ll guide you through some simple, practical ways to evaluate health information based on evidence and science—not pseudoscience or what’s trending on social media.

1. Check the Source

Not all health information is created equal. Reliable, evidence-based sources include:

• Peer-reviewed journals (e.g. The Lancet, Nutrition Reviews, BMJ)

• Government health departments (e.g. Australian Department of Health, or websites ending in .gov)

• Professional health organisations (e.g. Dietitians Australia, Heart Foundation, Cancer Council)

• Directly from registered health professionals (e.g. Accredited Practising Dietitians, GPs)

Be wary of:

• Websites or social media pages with no credentials listed

• Health claims tied to product sales (Hint: check if influencers also sell a protein powder or supplement they are promoting)

• Self-proclaimed "experts" who lack formal qualifications (remember: anyone can call themselves a nutritionist without formal qualifications)

Tip: If someone is selling a product and claiming it cures all your problems—it's probably too good to be true.

2. Look for Evidence – Not Just Anecdotes

Personal stories can be powerful, but they’re not the same as scientific evidence. Just because something “worked for someone” doesn’t mean it’s safe or effective for you.

True evidence-based information comes from:

• Clinical trials

• Systematic reviews

• Guidelines developed from large-scale research

Ask yourself:

• Is there a study backing up this claim?

• Has it been replicated in more than one study?

• Are there any expert guidelines that support it?

3. Watch Out for Red Flags

Some common signs of pseudoscience or misleading health info include:

✖️ Promises of quick fixes (“Lose 10kg in a week!”)

✖️ Demonising whole food groups (“All carbs are bad!”)

✖️ Buzzwords like “detox”, “clean eating”, or “superfood” with no context

✖️ Heavy reliance on fear or conspiracy theories (“Doctors don’t want you to know this!”)

These tactics often prey on fear, confusion, or the desire for a shortcut. Evidence-based advice may not be flashy—but it’s grounded in long-term scientific consensus.

4. Check Who Funded the Information

Sometimes studies or articles are funded by companies with something to sell. That doesn’t always mean the research is flawed, but it’s important to be aware of potential bias.

Ask:

• Who paid for the study?

• Does the author have any ties to the product or brand?

• Is this article trying to inform me, or sell me something?

Transparency is key. Reputable sources will disclose any conflicts of interest.

5. Ask a Professional (Like a Dietitian!)

When in doubt, talk to someone trained to interpret science. Accredited Practising Dietitians are qualified to help you make sense of nutrition and health information, and tailor it to your needs. We don’t rely on fads or trends—we base our guidance on the latest research and proven methods.

Dietitians are held to strict ethical and professional standards through our accreditation with Dietitians Australia. We are required to provide unbiased, evidence-based advice, and must declare any conflicts of interest transparently. We are professionally obligated to ensure our recommendations are always based on science—not sales. Your health and wellbeing always come first.

Final Thoughts

The internet is a powerful tool, but it's also full of noise. Learning how to separate solid science from shaky claims can protect your health and save you time, money, and stress.

If you ever feel unsure about a health claim or need personalised advice, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m here to help you make informed, evidence-based choices—no fads, no fear, just facts.