Fear Mongering or Facts? The Fine Line Between Helpful and Harmful Health Advice

In this eye-opening episode of Ask Dr. Sterling, Dr. Noa Sterling addresses a critical and often misunderstood topic: the fine line between fearmongering and providing necessary, evidence-based health information. Sparked by listener reactions to her honest discussion about diet soda and pregnancy risks, Dr. Sterling dives deep into the challenges of sharing medical truths without creating undue fear.

Key Moments Covered:

• The Diet Soda Controversy: Dr. Sterling responds to criticism she received for her honest take on diet soda during pregnancy, breaking down the nuance and why she felt the need to apologize.
• When Does Sharing Facts Cross the Line? Learn how healthcare professionals walk the tightrope between being transparent about risks and preventing unnecessary anxiety.
• Why Context Matters: How does the same medical fact affect different people? Dr. Sterling emphasizes the importance of context and why individual circumstances make a difference.
• The Role of Social Media in Spreading Health Anxiety: Dr. Sterling discusses the impact of viral medical advice, clickbait health warnings, and why we need to be cautious about where we get our information.

This episode provides clarity on how to process health information thoughtfully, empowering you to make decisions based on facts, not fear. Dr. Sterling also shares her approach to giving honest, evidence-based medical advice in a way that prioritizes your well-being.

Resources Mentioned:

• Sterling Parents Membership: Find expert guidance and a supportive community to help you navigate pregnancy, postpartum, and parenting stress-free.

The Ask Dr. Sterling Podcast

We tackle the questions you're too nervous to ask your OB and debunk the myths that leave you stressed. Want Dr. Sterling to address your burning questions? Email us at podcast@sterlingparents.com!

Be sure to follow us on Instagram & TikTok @askdrsterling for more engaging content and practical advice. Don't miss out on the only membership designed to ease the worries of pregnancy and postpartum—join Sterling Parents Membership today!

Host: Dr. Noa Sterling, Board-Certified ObGyn & Founder of Sterling Parents Membership