E-valuate promises. The old adage ''if it sounds too good to be true it probably is'' applies a thousandfold when it comes to the Internet. Beware of sites that promise things like instant weight loss, quick cures and amazing results. These things weren't possible before the Internet came along, and believe me when I tell you they're still not possible.

E-valuate the source. Look at the site address. If it ends in .org, that means it's hosted by a not-for-profit organization. If it ends in .edu, that means it's hosted by an educational organization like a university or college. And if it ends in .gov, that means it's hosted by a government agency. That doesn't mean you should discount all .com's; after all, iVillage does its best to present you with accurate and honest information from top experts. But when you're researching a topic, particularly an illness or some other serious health issue, it's good to survey a wide range of sources, including those that exist solely to provide the latest updates on research and science.

E-valuate security. Unless you want to be bombarded with electronic -- and ''snail'' -- junk mail, be selective about giving out your vital statistics over the Web. Although you can get some valuable information when you sign up for monthly e-newsletters and emailed tips of the day, you don't want to wind up on every mailing list on the planet. Reputable sites will not sell your information to other sources and will have a statement to that affect prominently posted. If you're buying over the net, make sure the site has a secure server to protect your credit card information.