Access to health information has become massive for most people in recent decades. It is enough to put any question related to a disease in the search engine, to arrive at countless websites where “magic solutions” are promised in the form of food, herbs or supplements, among other products. The characteristics are usually magical thinking, fundamentalism and the irresponsibility of those who intend to make health a business. It is about mis-information and over-information based on false premises or biased data, which are useful to convince those who read that the answer to their ailment lies there, abusing the desperation of those who see their integrity threatened. The objective is generally to obtain an economic return; other times just generalize the own experience.
With the massive reach of information, people obtain tools that give them greater decision-making power over their health, while at the same time requiring us professionals to give better answers, be up-to-date, dedicate adequate time to consultations and exercise listen more empathetically. Undoubtedly, the information positions the patient (now in the role of consultant-user) as an empowered subject, moving away from the passivity historically conceived within the paradigm of the hegemonic medical model.
However, it is essential to understand that consultation cannot be replaced by information collected from various sources: on the contrary, it adds to the professional role of being a guide to help discriminate quality information from that which may endanger health or harm treatments.
In nutrition, intrusiveness and false information are the order of the day: anyone, whether a nutrition professional or not, feels empowered to talk about food and to give advice, especially to those who are going through a serious illness (eg. oncology). This puts the physical and mental health of patients at risk: on the one hand, extreme and unnecessary restrictions are often recommended, or on the contrary, the consumption of inappropriate foods or supplements. Added to this, mis-information and over-information generate confusion and anguish, as well as feelings of guilt for the supposed “bad” food choices. This, without a doubt, affects mental health, generating stress, anxiety and adding yet another burden to that already borne by the disease.
What can be done to combat intrusiveness in nutrition? As a health professional, support referral to a trained nutritionist in the area. As a patient, be critical of the information that circulates and always consult a specialized professional with any questions related to food. From professional associations, receive complaints in the face of this type of problem and act accordingly to advocate for the legal exercise of the profession. At the level of the health sector, prioritize health professions properly, improving wages and working conditions.
Lic. Tatiana L. Gusenko
Nutritionist – UBA (MN. 8528)
[email protected]
by CEDOC