What does the hierarchy of evidence help to organize?

The hierarchy of evidence serves to organize the relative strength and qualitative nature of various types of research studies. It provides a systematic framework that categorizes evidence based on factors such as study design, methodology, and the risk of bias. This hierarchy is essential for both practitioners and researchers because it helps them evaluate the credibility and reliability of research findings. For instance, systematic reviews and meta-analyses are considered the highest levels of evidence due to their comprehensive nature, while case studies or expert opinions might be at the lower end. By understanding the hierarchy, one can discern which studies have the most robust findings and can be trusted for guiding decisions in sports nutrition and related fields.