In contrast, pseudoscience refers to theories and health claims that are described as science-based when they are not. Pseudoscience is not based on repeated experimentation. Other scientists cannot verify it, and scientific journals do not publish it. Pseudoscience is not peer-reviewed and is too good to be true. When evaluating health information, including health claims about health products, ask yourself the following questions. Answering these questions can help you determine if the information is scientifically accurate: ● ●● Is the source of the information reliable? ●● Is the information current? ●● Is the information applicable to my life stage and situation? ● Does the source of information have a bias? Is the source making money or promoting a cause by publishing the story or article? ● ● Does the article refer to research published by medical scientists? ● ● Does the article give the names of the researchers and the journal that published the original research? ● ● Can you find other reliable sources with the same information? Evaluating health information is an ongoing process. Researchers constantly uncover new information about the human body and health, so health information is constantly changing. This should not deter you from keeping up with this fast-growing body of knowledge. View this as an opportunity to engage in lifelong learning about how to improve your health (Figure 2.8). Applying Health Information Your health and wellness require your active attention. There is a cause-and-effect relationship between some of your actions and your health. For example, ignoring health information about your diet will result in poor nutrition. Not following safety precautions for using fitness equipment can lead to injury. You can avoid these effects by applying health information. In addition to influencing your everyday behaviors, reliable health information can also guide how you choose and evaluate health services and health products, such as medications, supplements, and hygiene and cosmetic products. You can use health information to identify what products and services you need and how effective they are. Health Products and Services A consumer is someone who purchases goods and services. You are a consumer. As you read this text, you will learn how to become an informed consumer. The informed consumer has knowledge and skills to make good decisions about health products and services. Consumers have rights and responsibilities. Consumer rights include the right to be safe from harmful products and deceptive business practices and to have complaints addressed. Regulations and laws protect these rights. For example, truth-in-advertising laws require pseudoscience theories and health claims that are described as science-based when they are not lifelong learning practice of always seeking to gather new information and learn new skills consumer anyone who purchases goods and services Solis Images/Shutterstock.com Figure 2.8 Learning does not only occur in a formal environment like a school or workplace. Lifelong learners take information when and where they can throughout their lives. Lifelong Learners ● ●● Eagerly accept that knowledge grows ● View learning as an opportunity to improve themselves ● ● Are confident they can learn and apply knowledge Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. Chapter 2 Health and Wellness Skills 45