Nutrition Controversies

Abstract

Nutrition controversies abound, particularly in an age of vast information and technology. Scientific information is often disseminated so quickly, via news outlets or lay bloggers, that the factual details are left out and in-depth analysis is omitted. Our food supply and our environment are intertwined, yet from a public health standpoint there seems to be a disconnection between what our society wants, and what it may need, in terms of nutrition and disease prevention. We want our food supply to be safe, available, affordable, fresh, and tasty. We also want our environment to be minimally affected, animal rights to be upheld, and less waste to occur. We need to provide adequate nutrition that promotes health to a diverse population at a reasonable cost. This article will address some current nutrition controversies surrounding genetically modified organisms in our food supply, sugars, calories, and high-protein diets; as well as a recommendation for helping your patients choose a healthy diet and adopt healthy dietary behaviors is reviewed.