Legal
Health disclaimer
PLENTIST publishes general information to help you understand everyday health topics. It can't replace advice from someone who knows your health.
Draft wording. This page has not yet been reviewed by a legal professional.
General information, not personal advice
Everything on PLENTIST, including articles, guides, examples and summaries, is for general information and education. It is not medical advice, and it is not a substitute for advice, diagnosis or treatment from a doctor or other qualified health professional who knows your circumstances.
Reading PLENTIST does not create a doctor–patient or any other professional relationship. We can’t know your medical history, medication, fitness or diet, so we can’t tell you what is right for you.
Don’t ignore professional advice, or delay seeking it, because of something you’ve read here.
Emergencies
If you think you or someone else may be having a medical emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.
If you are struggling with your mental health or having thoughts of harming yourself, please contact a doctor, your local emergency number or a crisis support service in your country straight away.
Exercise
Physical activity is safe and helpful for most people, but not every exercise suits everyone. Talk to a doctor or a suitably qualified professional before starting or significantly changing an exercise routine if you:
- have a heart, lung, joint or other medical condition;
- are pregnant or have recently given birth;
- are recovering from an injury or illness; or
- have been inactive for a long time and have any concerns.
Stop exercising and seek medical help if you get chest pain, severe breathlessness, dizziness or faintness, or pain that is sharp or getting worse.
Nutrition
Our nutrition articles describe general eating patterns, not personal diet plans. Speak to a doctor or registered dietitian before making significant changes if you have a medical condition, a food allergy or intolerance, a history of disordered eating, or are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you are planning changes for a child.
Supplements
Supplements can interact with prescribed and over-the-counter medicines, can be unsuitable during pregnancy or with some health conditions, and can be harmful in high doses. Products also vary in what they actually contain.
Always check with a doctor or pharmacist before starting a supplement if you take any medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, have a health condition, or are buying for a child. Don’t stop or change prescribed medication because of anything you read on PLENTIST.
When we mention a supplement or ingredient, we are describing the evidence. We are not recommending a product or brand.
Symptoms, medication and medical conditions
PLENTIST does not diagnose conditions or recommend treatments. If you have symptoms that worry you, that persist, or that are getting worse, speak to a doctor. Questions about your medication should go to your doctor or pharmacist.
Wellbeing and mental health
Our wellness articles cover everyday habits around sleep, stress and rest. They are not a treatment for insomnia, depression, anxiety or any other condition. If low mood, anxiety, stress or poor sleep is affecting your daily life, please speak to a doctor or a qualified mental-health professional.
Evidence changes
Health research develops over time. We try to describe the evidence accurately as it stands when we write or update an article (see our sources and evidence policy), but an article may not reflect the most recent research. If you think something is out of date, please let us know.
Links to other websites
We link to other websites, such as public-health bodies and research publishers, so you can check sources. We aren’t responsible for their content.
Your decisions
How you use the information on PLENTIST is your decision. For anything that affects your health, especially if any of the situations above apply to you, please involve a qualified professional. Our terms of use also apply.