section two


recommendations were credible. Communication about these recommendations was often confusing. British journalist and businessman Matt Ridley points out in that the scientific method remains the


a Wall Street Journal article2


best way to determine solid evidence, despite problems such as confirmation bias, overconfidence, and political influence affect- ing data interpretation—not to mention all the variables involved when conducting trials. Ridley provides a point of view that applies to our work communicating nutrition science, noting that science is better at telling us about the past and present rather than the future. For example, patients may ask about the benefit of long-term cal- cium on bone density. We know from past research how bone is laid down and the value of calcium in the diet early in life. Den- sity scans can tell us the current status of our bones but not what will happen to them years or even decades into the future. Too many variables affect the outcome to be able to make definite predictions, but as we complete more research over longer time periods and learn more about individual responses to interven- tions, we are able to provide additional reliable counsel regard- ing nutrition. Ridley also reminds us that science is a human affair. Sci-


entists have their own views; even with solid data, they will see various theories in different ways, especially if their career has been based on these views. Te only way to be sure of the reli- ability of a study is to examine the evidence ourselves. As food and nutrition professionals, that is our job. Tere are things we


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