Studies of the impact of diet on health produce confusing and contradictory results. This is because ________.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Most studies of the impact of diet on health are observational, meaning researchers are merely observing and collecting data based on what people choose to eat. These studies suffer from confounding variables (factors that can influence the outcome that aren't being accounted for) and recall bias (errors in remembering what was consumed) which can make it difficult to determine causality. Controlled experimental studies are generally considered the gold standard, but they can be expensive and difficult to conduct in real-world settings. While the food industry does fund some studies, the impact of industry funding on results is debated and likely varies study-by-study. People's diets can be relatively stable over time, but this is not the primary reason for confusing and contradictory results.

Studies of the Impact of Diet on Health Produce Confusing