Asking for evidence works both ways - here's an example...

At NHS Choices, we tend to pride ourselves on being evidence-based. But evidence is always moving and is constantly (rightly) open to interpretation and judgement.

In particular, this recently published page which is perhaps provocatively titled "The Truth About Carbs" nhs.uk/Livewell/loseweight/... has generated a lot of "1-star" ratings from site users, as well as a certain amount of backlash in social media and blogs.

We have worked to respond to some of these criticisms left by our site users, but does it go far enough to address them?

If you do spot any problems with this page (or any other for that matter) - whether it's the evidence or the messaging - let us know here or via our feedback system nhs.uk/aboutNHSChoices/Page...

We have an open editorial policy, feedback and complaints system, which you can read here: nhs.uk/aboutNHSChoices/abou....

[archimboldo]

Hi Rob

I just had a read of the Carbs article. I don't know what it was like before, but it seems a very calm and thorough review of the topic now, with very useful links to relevant research and reviews by specialists. A job well done in my view.

The NHS pages are always my preferred source for advice and insights.

[Noodlemaz]

I read through a lot of the disagreeing comments as well when the article went up. I think the problem with dieting etc. is it's a bit like a religion; people have their views and get very angry if they're challenged.

However, it is also something that we probably have things still to learn about - the rate our diets have changed, there are simply so many untested situations happening, so we're bound to get things wrong.

For example, I'm confident the 5-a-day stuff is pretty arbitrary, but made less nebulous than the 'eat plenty of fruit and veg' advice we used to have to try to increase compliance?

Little things like that, when people become aware of them, can shake confidence in other messages, and strengthen the irrational beliefs, that often promise more specific results, or make unreasonable suggestions that are more achievable and therefore more attractive. Complex stuff.

[Trekkiemaiden]

Sorry , it's still the government's standard advice based on old dogma and bad science (largely to do with trying not to offend the major agricultural conglomerates and food companies I suspect). Google Gary Taubes, Peter Attia, Dr Briffa, Prof Grant Schofield, the list goes on...... for informed information about nutritional science.