(NAPSA)—Although the content of many Websites is credible, sometimes there are exceptions. That’s because the content posted on the Internet may not be regulated for accuracy. Unfortunately, some Web sites can actually be a source of misinformation. According to registered dietitian Diane Quagliani: “Be sure to check the credibility of any source whenit comes to health and nutrition information—especially when it comes to the Web. Acting on misinformation may result in detrimental health consequences.” For example, alarming and unfounded e-mail hoaxes—often called “urban legends”—circulate widely to “warn” people about particular health perils. They include bananascarrying flesh-eating bacteria, cancer-causing antiperspirants and chewing gumsinfested with spider eggs. Here are some tips for spot- ting hoaxes and identifying science-based sources of online information: * Question information that makes sweeping claims. One sign of a hoax is a Website or email message claiming that one product is the cause or cure for every malady under the sun. For example, a common e-mail myth is that the low-calorie sweetener aspartame causes a range of medical conditions from brain cancer and multiple sclerosis to Alzheimer’s disease. In reality, aspartameis one of the most thoroughly studied food ingredients with more than 200 studies confirmingits safety. Carefully consider the source. Scrutinize the source of em Experts say that some Websites and e-mail hoaxes may actually be the source of misinformation. information on Websites and in email messages. Is the source a respected authority or an unknown entity? The basic rule of thumb is to ignore e-mail messages from unknown senders andrely on the Web sites of known, credible organizations. Check out urban legends. If you suspect an e-mail hoax, visit www.snopes.com and www. urbanlegends.about.com. These sites are dedicated to setting the record straight about urban legends. Along with identifying hoaxes, avoid the temptation to spread false and alarming information. Ignore the urging of e- mail hoaxes and don’t forward the message. Other Web sites that may help separate health fact from fiction include the American Dietetic Association (www.eatright.org) and the American Diabetes Association (www.diabetes.org). For more information about aspartame, visit www.aspartame.org.
