Make 2026 the year of balanced preventive and sustainable health. 

Detected Manipulations & Suggested Changes

Appeal to authority

Using the status or credentials of an expert to lend weight to claims, even when the claims themselves are not fully supported or nuanced in the text.

The byline: "Dr Murage is a Consultant Gynaecologist and Fertility Specialist." This credentialing appears after a set of broad, general health recommendations that go beyond gynecology and fertility (e.g., general nutrition, physical activity, mental health, substance use). While expert credentials are relevant, they can also subtly encourage readers to accept all recommendations without question or nuance.

3 suggestions

Clarify the scope of expertise: e.g., "Dr Murage is a Consultant Gynaecologist and Fertility Specialist; the general health recommendations provided are based on widely accepted public health guidelines."

Where possible, briefly reference recognized guidelines (e.g., WHO, national health authorities) to ground recommendations in broader evidence rather than primarily in personal authority.

Add a short note encouraging readers to consult their own healthcare providers for individualized advice, especially for people with chronic conditions or special circumstances.

Oversimplification

Presenting complex issues in a way that glosses over important nuances, exceptions, or limitations.

1) "Prevention remains one of the most cost-effective and impactful health strategies." This is broadly true at a population level, but it is presented as a universal statement without acknowledging that some preventive measures are more cost-effective than others, and that access and individual circumstances vary. 2) "Reducing excessive sugar, salt, and ultra-processed foods can significantly lower the risk of obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease." While generally accurate, the statement does not acknowledge that genetics, socioeconomic factors, and other lifestyle elements also play important roles. 3) "Constantly watch what gets into your guts, and how much." This phrase simplifies nutrition to constant vigilance, which may not reflect a balanced, psychologically healthy approach to eating for everyone.

3 suggestions

Qualify broad claims with context: e.g., "Prevention is generally one of the most cost-effective and impactful health strategies at the population level, particularly for common chronic diseases."

Acknowledge other contributing factors: e.g., "Reducing excessive sugar, salt, and ultra-processed foods can help lower the risk of obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease, alongside other factors such as physical activity, genetics, and social determinants of health."

Rephrase "Constantly watch what gets into your guts, and how much" to something less absolute and more balanced, such as "Be mindful of what and how much you eat over time, aiming for a balanced, sustainable pattern rather than rigid control."

Appeal to emotion

Using emotionally charged wording to motivate behavior rather than relying solely on neutral, evidence-based explanation.

The phrase "Constantly watch what gets into your guts, and how much" uses somewhat visceral language ("guts") and the word "constantly," which can evoke anxiety or guilt rather than calm, informed decision-making. It may unintentionally promote an overly vigilant or anxious relationship with food.

3 suggestions

Use neutral, supportive language: e.g., "Pay attention to your eating habits and portion sizes, focusing on a variety of nutrient-dense foods."

Avoid words that imply relentless monitoring ("constantly") and instead emphasize long-term patterns: e.g., "Over time, aim to choose foods that support your health most of the time, while allowing for flexibility."

If emotional motivation is desired, pair it with clear, factual explanation: e.g., "Being mindful of what and how much you eat can support your energy levels and reduce long-term health risks."

Unsubstantiated claims (mild)

Statements presented as fact without any reference or indication of evidence, even if they are likely true.

Several claims are broadly consistent with public health guidance but are presented without any indication of evidence or source, for example: - "Prevention remains one of the most cost-effective and impactful health strategies." - "Regular activity improves cardiovascular health, mental well-being, sleep quality, and musculoskeletal strength." - "Tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, and substance misuse remain major contributors to preventable disease." These are likely accurate but could be strengthened by minimal sourcing or phrasing that indicates they are based on established research.

3 suggestions

Add brief references to authoritative bodies: e.g., "According to WHO and many national health agencies, prevention remains one of the most cost-effective and impactful health strategies."

Use phrasing that signals evidence basis: e.g., "Research consistently shows that regular activity improves cardiovascular health, mental well-being, sleep quality, and musculoskeletal strength."

Where space allows, include one or two specific examples or statistics (with sources) to support key claims about tobacco, alcohol, and chronic disease risk.

Framing effect

Presenting information in a way that emphasizes one perspective or outcome, which can subtly steer interpretation.

The article consistently frames health behaviors in terms of individual responsibility and choices (e.g., setting goals, tracking progress, reducing harmful habits) with little mention of structural or environmental factors (access to healthcare, safe spaces for exercise, food affordability). This can frame health as primarily a matter of personal willpower and planning, which is only part of the picture.

3 suggestions

Add a short acknowledgment of structural factors: e.g., "While individual choices matter, access to healthcare, safe environments for physical activity, and affordable healthy foods also play a major role in health outcomes."

Encourage readers to seek community or systemic supports where relevant: e.g., "Consider using community resources such as local clinics, support groups, or public exercise spaces where available."

Balance the framing by noting that progress may look different depending on personal circumstances and constraints.