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Evaluating the quality of scientific research involves assessing factors like the research questions posed, clarity of the methodology, discussion of study limitations, and more. High-quality research is transparent, easily replicable, and grounded in sound methodologies, while low-quality research often lacks clear methods, uses inappropriate analysis, and draws unsupported conclusions. Learn how to identify these signs to ensure you are using high-quality science to inform your nutrition recommendations.

 

Understanding a scientific research study involves interpreting information in key sections of a research publication. Learn about each section of a publication, including what information to expect and questions to ask yourself while reading through each section. Breaking down each section will help you to critically evaluate and apply the study’s results.

 

The Dietary Guidelines for Americans provide evidence-based nutrition recommendations to promote health and prevent chronic diseases. Developed by the U.S. Departments of Agriculture and Health and Human Services, they are reviewed and updated every five years, guided by the latest scientific research, and serve as a foundation for public health policies and nutrition initiatives in the U.S.

Snack boards are a fun way to combine nutrition, creativity, and convenience. They encourage intake of a variety of foods, are easily customizable, and are perfect for social gatherings or everyday snacking. Review ideas to combine a mix of food items and dips and how to arrange your board using the “Rule of 3.”

Snacking is a common eating behavior among U.S. adults, presenting an opportunity outside of typical mealtimes to meet recommended daily intakes of food groups that are largely under consumed, like fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and dairy. This material can help you gain a better understanding of snacking habits and promote healthier options to meet both dietary and lifestyle needs. Additionally, it provides inspiration for modern alternatives to the most popular snack types to better meet both health and convenience needs.
 

Calories are how our body measures energy while energy balance is the relationship between calories consumed through foods and beverages and calories used through normal body functions and physical activity. Maintaining, losing, or gaining weight largely depends on whether you’re in energy balance, a caloric surplus, or a caloric deficit – while considering other factors that may influence weight management. Understanding and managing energy balance is key to supporting weight management goals.

Intermittent fasting involves restricting eating times (e.g., only eating between 9 AM – 7 PM) rather than the types or amounts of foods consumed, usually with the goal of weight loss. Learn more about the purpose, different types, food rules, and scientific evidence for the perceived health benefits related to this common dietary pattern.

This presentation provides insights into the most popular diets currently followed by adults in the U.S. This includes a deep dive on a select few diets providing descriptions of what the diets are, the specific food rules associated,  scientific evidence behind the perceived health benefits, and any nutrition considerations.

Dietary fats play a vital role in supporting overall health, from providing energy to aiding in the absorption of essential vitamins. Review the functions of fat and why they are an essential part of a balanced diet.

Plant-based eating patterns focus on foods derived from plants and are embraced for various reasons, including health, sustainability, and personal values. Learn about the common types of plant-based eating patterns, like veganism and vegetarianism, their potential health benefits, and important nutritional considerations.