Reality Check: There is No Such Thing as a Miracle Food

Abstract

A recent episode of the Dr. Oz Show suggested endive, red onion, and sea bass as foods that can decrease the risk of ovarian cancer by up to 75%. However, the scientific evidence supporting these recommendations is limited. This commentary discusses some of the concerns related to the promotion of “miracle foods” by the media. Nutritional scientists and epidemiologists should be cognizant of the public health messages that are taken from their individual studies and not sensationalize the findings of a single study.

ACKNOWLEDGMENT

Support for Sarah J. Oppeneer was provided by training grant T32 CA132670 from the National Cancer Institute.