In a recent article written for Tufts Now several scientists describe a set of useful guidelines to follow when attempting to understand the validity of a diet trend. The faculty members of the Friedman School of Nutrition at Tufts University explain that many dietary claims or fads surface because the message “eat more fruits and vegetables” is boring, and people crave exciting, breakthrough advice. The guidelines for debunking false information are called “10 Red Flags of Junk Science”, and have been developed by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the American College of Nutrition and the American Society for Nutrition. To read through a description of each guideline check out the Tufts Now article.