Super Eco

Photo credit: InformationIsBeautiful.net

Snake oil or science? Food for a healthy life ... or merely food for thought? End confusion over contradictory research with this balloon chart showing the scientific evidence for various health supplements. You may see some of your own bubbles burst as you spy your favorites bobbing just below the "Worth It" line (or worse still, sinking below "Conflicting" into oblivion). Sort by compounds, enzymes, minerals, plant/herbs and vitamins in relation to overall health or specific conditions such as cancer, mental health and even sex.

The source information appears credible enough. The chart is generated from this Google doc, which updates the balloon chart automatically when new research results come in. Sources include PubMed and Cochrane.org, considering only large human blind-placebo controlled trials. And if you're still skeptical about natural remedies, you can do the footwork yourself with these objective, scientifically verified sources on complementary and alternative therapies.

Of course, there's no discounting the possibility of the placebo effect. NPR just published a curious story showing that scientists are finding signs that the placebo effect is getting stronger over time. Talk about the power of positive thinking ... Now that's a balloon we'll gladly hitch to our stars!