The Story: The Boston Globe on February 25, 2008 cited a recent paper in the journal Nature Biotechology that indicated that certain statin medications (used for control of high cholesterol) might impair the functioning of critical cellular components called mitochondria. The mitochondria are tiny structures that generate the necessary energy (in the form of a substance called ATP) for our…
Q: We really like the coffee you serve. Where is it from? A: Our coffee beans are from the Doka plantation in Costa Rica. Dr. Kanner visited there in 2006. We usually serve the peaberry, but occasionally the Italian roast. The distributor is Tico foods from Texas, who can be found at http://www.otnfinefood.com. About $10 per pound delivered.
Those words are the pithy summary of the essence of good eating as clearly and delightfully described in Michael Pollan’s new book, In Defense of Food. Dr. Kanner strongly recommends you get it, read it, and pay attention to what he says. Pollan’s short article following, from the Feb 2007 New York times, is a good warmup. Nutritionism
The X-ray procedure called CT colonography or virtual colonoscopy can effectively substitute for optical colonoscopy, with certain reservations.
Jane Brody’s excellent article from the NYTimes, With Fruits and Vegetables, More Can Be Less, on the value of eating high-volume but low-calorie density foods — vegetables, soups, salads, and fruits — as the essential strategy to weight loss and maintenance. Dr. Kanner fully concurs in the approach detailed by Ms. Brody, the New York Times health writer, that puts…
The body mass index is widely used to determine, based upon your height and weight, whether you are too thin, too heavy, or just right. Fortunately, you can as easily get this information by looking in the mirror any morning. Body Mass Index (BMI) table
Q: I understand that Vitamin E has many benefits, including reducing heart disease and staving off Alzheimers. Is that correct? How much should I take daily? A: As we learn more about Vitamin E, the benefits of supplementation seem less and less. The recommended daily allowance of Vitamin E (in other words, the basic required amount) is 20 IU (international…
Q: Several friends just suggested I should do a “colon cleansing” to make me feel better and be healthier. They say they do this regularly. The “cleansing” appeared to involve extensive use of cathartics for several days. They cited many benefits. Should I? A: No. No. and No. When I was growing up, my mother and hence the whole family…
