Healthy Habits - Evaluating Viral Health Claims

Many wellness trends spread faster than the science behind them. Dr. Ali Cadili, MD, MBA,

MS, a surgeon and clinical researcher in surgical critical care and acute care surgery at

West Virginia University Medicine, has spent his career cutting through that noise, evaluating which health trends actually hold up to evidence, and which just create false reassurance. From hand hygiene and air quality to supplements and wearables, Dr. Cadili brings a rare combination of frontline clinical experience and rigorous research background to conversations that are often dominated by marketing, not medicine.

I had a chance to interview Dr. Cadili to learn more.

What are some viral wellness tips that aren't really supported by evidence?

Juice cleanses, detox teas, parasite cleanses, colonic irrigation, oil pulling, raw milk, IV vitamin drips

What are some viral wellness trends that are actually science-backed?

Creatine supplements, dietary fiber, resistance (weight) training, regular sleep, yoga and pilates, daily walking

How can people evaluate health claims without a lot of medical training or background?

Ask your medical health provider, evaluate the source and check for conflicts of interest (is someone or a company promoting a supplement or practice for direct financial gain, is it coming from a trusted source such as your physician/Mayo Clinic/Cochrane Reviews/NIH/CDC), are there any red flags (miracle cure claims, relies mainly on subjective evidence such as personal stories or testimonials without scientific evidence, main source is social media without links for original research published in respected scientific journals)

As we get into back-to-school season and the fall, what should people know about staying healthy and preventing infections at home?

Basic everyday hygiene (hand washing, cover coughs or sneezes), assure indoor air quality with adequate ventilation, stay home when sick (fever, coughing, vomiting, diarrhea), general health maintenance measures for children (healthy balanced meals, exercise, consistent sleep schedule, adequate hydration), communicate with school regarding outbreaks.