How to Read and Understand Scientific Research: A Guide for the Consumer
In today’s world, where information is at our fingertips, learning how to read scientific research as a consumer is key. Every day, articles, posts, and videos flood our social media feeds, touting the latest breakthrough, product, or miracle solution. But we must recognize that the data we see online is often exaggerated or taken out of context. This can lead to a serious problem—misinformation.
The Problem: Connecting Dots That Aren't There
One of the biggest issues I’ve seen in the online space is the tendency for people to try and connect dots that simply aren’t connected. People often state and accept facts as true without the data backing them up. This isn't necessarily intentional, but it’s a widespread concern. The quality of educational content can vary greatly, and it’s crucial for content creators to fact-check before repeating what they’ve heard or read.
As someone who spent over 20 years in academic research, I quickly learned the importance of not overstating claims. In the scientific world, data must clearly demonstrate something before it can be stated as fact. Even then, science is inherently imperfect, and that’s why multiple studies are necessary before we can be confident in any conclusion. Findings must be repeated across different studies and settings before being treated as the "gospel truth."
In my experience, my colleagues and I didn’t tolerate careless thinking. You learn quickly to stick to what the data really says, not what you hope or think it says. New research can be exciting and fascinating, especially for me when it relates to horse nutrition, feeds, and supplements. However, we must always be cautious in how we interpret and share that data with others.
Balancing Advice as a Professional
As both a nutrition professional and a scientist, I am constantly striving to strike a balance between giving helpful advice and not overstating my claims. It’s important to recognize that while nutrition and veterinary care often intersect, they have distinct goals and should be treated as such.
One challenge is that social media has become a world of its own. It serves as an excellent starting point for conversations, but I’ve seen too many instances where things are presented as fact before they’ve been clearly demonstrated by the data. This worries me because the spread of misinformation can lead to poor decisions regarding the health and care of horses.
Empowering You: Trust in Reliable Sources
As a professional, my goal is to empower you to read and understand scientific research for yourself. However, it’s crucial to rely on trusted sources such as your veterinarian, local extension offices, and experienced professionals in the field. In my own practice, I created a Facebook community of over 21,000 members as a free resource to help educate others. My team of “scientific admins” is highly educated, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have their support in helping maintain the quality of information we share. I’m truly blessed to be part of such an amazing community.
At the heart of it all, I am a client advocate. Being an independent professional allows me the freedom to work closely with clients one-on-one, giving them personalized advice that is grounded in sound science. While I contribute to the overall body of knowledge, my “deep work” happens when I consult with clients individually, helping them navigate the complexities of equine nutrition.
Tips for Reading Scientific Research as a Consumer
With so much information circulating online, it’s important to approach scientific research with a critical eye. Here are some tips to help you navigate the world of science:
Look at the Whole Picture: It’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of new data, but it’s important to take a step back and consider the full context. Don’t rush to conclusions based on one study or paper.
Balance Enthusiasm with Caution: It’s exciting to discover new findings, but be mindful of the limitations of the data. Ask yourself, "What is this paper really saying?" and be cautious of making leaps that aren’t justified.
Compare Multiple Sources: What are other papers saying about the same topic? Are the findings consistent, or do they disagree? The more you read, the better your understanding will be of the overall body of research.
Seek Additional Help: If a topic is new or complex, don’t hesitate to seek additional guidance from experts in the field. Trusted sources like your vet, local university extension programs, or professionals like myself are here to help.
Changing Standard Practices Takes Time: To change the way we approach something, whether it’s horse nutrition or another area of care, it’s crucial to base decisions on a variety of sources. It’s a big deal to shift standard practices, and it should only happen when the evidence is strong and supported by multiple studies.
The Role of Education
I strongly encourage all horse owners to consider taking a nutrition course through a reputable institution. Universities like Rutgers, Ohio State University, Michigan, and Minnesota offer excellent online programs that provide a solid foundation in equine nutrition. Becoming well-versed in the basics is one of the best ways to ensure that you’re making informed decisions for your horse’s health.
A Call for Better Consumer Education
This post isn’t directed at any particular group, but rather it’s a response to the increasing prevalence of social media as a source of nutrition education. While platforms like TikTok and Facebook can be useful, they should not be the primary source of scientific knowledge. As a community, we need to do a better job of bridging the gap between academic research and social media in order to improve the quality of consumer education.
I hope that by sharing these thoughts, I can contribute in some small way to this effort. My goal is to be a voice of reason, encouraging horse owners to slow down, take a breath, and carefully consider the facts, logic, and big picture before jumping to conclusions.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, scientific research is a powerful tool that can guide us toward better care for our horses. However, it must be approached with care and critical thinking. Always look at the big picture, compare multiple sources, and seek advice from trusted professionals. The world of equine nutrition is constantly evolving, and by staying informed and grounded, we can continue to improve the well-being of the horses we love.
– Annie Emery, MS CRC CESMT CENA
Revolution Equine Nutrition, LLC
Copyright 2024
Academic Links for Consumers: How to Read Scientific Papers
https://www.science.org/content/article/how-seriously-read-scientific-paper
https://aspb.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/HowtoReadScientificPaper.pdf