Dieting, Nutrition and the Scientific Method

In summary: If you are unclear on how nutrition studies are done how can you possibly suggest that it isn't a science? Furthermore you can consider nutrition to be different from biochemistry all you like but it largely is not, understanding the molecular processes underlying nutrition both in terms of digestion and the roles of individual nutrients is all intimately linked to the field and very much science.
  • #1
neen
10
0
The Better Half is always researching the latest diet trends, theories, observations, etc... I check out the articles every now and then and it seems like the overlaying problem with all these studies is the removal of variables in a study.

Is it possible to accurately measure/test nutrition and dieting on humans? If not, does that make nutrition a pseudo-science?
 
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  • #2
Your question is not clear - are these articles you mention in peer reviewed journals, or something meant for non-scientists like maybe USA Today?

Could you please provide a littile more detail about one of those articles?

Nutrition is a Science.

Some aspects of what are ostensibly labelled as Nutrition articles are "interesting". There were a few studies done in the past that had funding from entities with a clear motive. For example, one of the problems is that there is potential financial impact to agribusiness from research, so there have been studies and also reviews of other research data done by organizations like the Sugar Institute (www.sugar.org). Many articles they have funded researc on are simply chemistry and Food Science - preparation, handling, processing. Others are more interesting.

This is a simple example of trying to deflect causes of obesity away from sugar based ingredients using somebody else's data. And I'm not implying anything about what causes obesity.

http://www.sugar.org/sugar-and-your-diet/caloric-intake.html [Broken]

This is not science per se, is this what you mean? It is more like a political ad, IMO.
 
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  • #3
I think the paleolithic diet wiki demonstrates a good approach to the problem:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paleolithic_diet#Research

It contains a lot of peer-reviewed references for your interest (genetic arguments to observational studies to intervention studies) that might demonstrate how scientific methods are helpful in determining nutritional value.
 
  • #4
In addition to what has already been offered please note that when considering a source anyone identifying as a "nutritionist" isn't a member of a credible medical profession. A medically trained specialist in diet and nutrition is called a "dietician".
 
  • #5
Thanks everyone! I understand we can accurately test the bio-chemical processes of food and the reactions that take place in the body.

What seems to be less clear are the long term effects of certain diets. Since humans are extremely varied and we have a vast "ability" to survive on a wide range of foods...it would seem that "proving" a certain diet is more beneficial than another is difficult. In other words we can only limit one factor in overall health studies of dieting. Many psychologists would argue that overall health is strongly rooted in mental health. So since we cannot isolate and control variables in health/nutrition studies (I consider nutrition to be different from bio-chemistry) it seems that the science around nutrition really isn't science but more like guided advice or correlation.

Thoughts?
 
  • #6
neen said:
What seems to be less clear are the long term effects of certain diets. Since humans are extremely varied and we have a vast "ability" to survive on a wide range of foods...it would seem that "proving" a certain diet is more beneficial than another is difficult.
I suggest you read up on cohort studies and how they are used.
neen said:
Many psychologists would argue that overall health is strongly rooted in mental health.
Whilst psychological state of the patient is an important factor in overall health to say it is "strongly rooted" is taking it to far. Also nutrition is a great thing to study in this regard especially with the links between stress, happiness and food.
neen said:
So since we cannot isolate and control variables in health/nutrition studies (I consider nutrition to be different from bio-chemistry) it seems that the science around nutrition really isn't science but more like guided advice or correlation.

Thoughts?
Yes, considering your admitted ignorance on this subject (you say you've checked out an article every now and then but it's not even clear if these are peer reviewed) what makes you think your opinion on this matter is valid? If you are unclear on how nutrition studies are done how can you possibly suggest that it isn't a science? Furthermore you can consider nutrition to be different from biochemistry all you like but it largely is not, understanding the molecular processes underlying nutrition both in terms of digestion and the roles of individual nutrients is all intimately linked to the field and very much science.
 
  • #7
Do you have some examples of research that you're talking about? The field is really big. Animal models can be used to study the impact of food, there the variables can be tightly controlled. Then there are the population association studies that I would take with a big scoop of salt.
 
  • #8
Ryan_m_b said:
I suggest you read up on cohort studies and how they are used.

Yes, considering your admitted ignorance on this subject (you say you've checked out an article every now and then but it's not even clear if these are peer reviewed) what makes you think your opinion on this matter is valid? If you are unclear on how nutrition studies are done how can you possibly suggest that it isn't a science? Furthermore you can consider nutrition to be different from biochemistry all you like but it largely is not, understanding the molecular processes underlying nutrition both in terms of digestion and the roles of individual nutrients is all intimately linked to the field and very much science.

This is simply a topic for discussion. Yes I know that there is firm scientific method being utilized in a lot of portions of dieting and nutrition. What I was asking (and perhaps I should have clarified)is if the scientific method can really be used in long term effects of overall health? Can the mental component of overall health be measured (highly unlikely)? If not then how can we use the scientific method when we talk about health, dieting and nutrition?

I never said my opinion was valid...simply wondering if we can use accurate and predictable methods when we are discussing overall health.
 

1. What is the scientific method and how does it apply to dieting and nutrition?

The scientific method is a process of systematic inquiry used by scientists to understand and explain phenomena in the natural world. It involves making observations, formulating hypotheses, conducting experiments, and analyzing data to draw conclusions. When it comes to dieting and nutrition, the scientific method is used to conduct research, gather evidence, and test hypotheses about how different foods and nutrients impact our health and well-being.

2. How do scientists determine which diets are effective and which are not?

Scientists use a variety of methods to evaluate the effectiveness of different diets. This can include randomized controlled trials, where participants are randomly assigned to follow a specific diet and their health outcomes are measured over time. They also look at observational studies that track the eating habits and health of large groups of people over a period of time. Additionally, scientists may conduct lab studies to examine how different foods and nutrients affect the body at a cellular level.

3. What role does genetics play in diet and nutrition?

Genetics can play a significant role in how our bodies respond to different foods and nutrients. For example, some people may have a genetic predisposition to certain health conditions, such as lactose intolerance or celiac disease, which can impact their dietary needs. Additionally, our genes can influence how our bodies metabolize and store nutrients, which can affect our weight and overall health. However, it's important to note that genetics is just one factor and our environment and lifestyle choices also play a significant role in our diet and nutrition.

4. Is there a "one size fits all" approach to dieting and nutrition?

No, there is no "one size fits all" approach to dieting and nutrition. Every person's body is unique and may have different dietary needs based on factors such as age, gender, genetics, and overall health. Additionally, what works for one person may not work for another. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional and listen to your body to determine what diet and nutrition plan is best for you.

5. How do scientists determine the safety of new diet trends and fads?

Scientists use evidence-based research to evaluate the safety of new diet trends and fads. This can include studying the potential health benefits and risks associated with a specific diet, analyzing the nutrient content and potential deficiencies, and assessing any potential side effects. Additionally, scientists may also look at the long-term effects of a diet on overall health and well-being. It's important to be cautious of new diet trends and consult with a healthcare professional before making any significant changes to your diet.

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