Table of Contents
- Introduction
- The Hosts
- Timestamps
- Related Resources
- Premium Content
- Detailed Study Notes
- Transcript
Listen Here:
For a full list of apps, go here. Or simply search “Sigma Nutrition” in your app of choice.
Or listen directly on the Sigma website here.
Introduction
To many, meta-analyses are seen as a research tool that is often regarded as the pinnacle of evidence in nutrition science. But is this accurate? What exactly makes a meta-analysis reliable or flawed? How can we distinguish between a well-conducted study and one that might mislead even the most well-intentioned reader?
In this episode, through three concrete examples, we explore the fundamental principles of meta-analyses, focusing on key aspects such as study selection, heterogeneity, and effect sizes. We discuss how these elements can significantly impact the conclusions drawn from a meta-analysis and what you should look out for when interpreting their results.
Whether you’re a nutrition professional, a researcher, or simply someone interested in the science behind dietary guidelines, this discussion will help you navigate the often murky waters of meta-analytic research.
The Hosts
Dr. Alan Flanagan has a PhD in nutrition from the University of Surrey, where his doctoral research focused on circadian rhythms, feeding, and chrononutrition.
This work was based on human intervention trials. He also has a Masters in Nutritional Medicine from the same institution.
Dr. Flanagan is a regular co-host of Sigma Nutrition Radio. He also produces written content for Sigma Nutrition, as part of his role as Research Communication Officer.
Danny Lennon has a master’s degree (MSc.) in Nutritional Sciences from University College Cork, and he is the founder of Sigma Nutrition.
Danny is currently a member of the Advisory Board of the Sports Nutrition Association, the global regulatory body responsible for the standardisation of best practice in the sports nutrition profession.
Timestamps
- 05:14 Understanding Meta-Analyses
- 12:11 Example 1: Dairy Consumption and Health
- 39:06 Example 2: Meta-Analysis on Carbohydrate Intake
- 54:59 Example 3: Meta-Analysis on Intermittent Fasting
- 01:02:44 Challenges in Meta-Analysis of Intermittent Fasting
- 01:13:56 Key Ideas Segment (Premium-only)
Related Resources
- Enroll in the next cohort of our Applied Nutrition Literacy course
- Meta-analyses discussed in the episode:
Premium Content
Not a Premium subscriber? Subscribe here!