The Glow of Beauty

Nutrition Health Review, Wntr, 1997 by Marcia Claire Pearson

Q. I've been hearing a lot about Ginkgo biloba of late. Is it really all that it is talked-up to be or is it just another fad herb?

A. Ginkgo biloba appears to deliver what it promises but like most herbs, some people will feel more results than others. There is also a variety of preparations and that brings in another variable. From tinctures to concentrated drops to tablets and capsules, herbal extracts come in a variety of packages and strengths. Most leaf extracts of Ginkgo biloba come in a range of 120 to 240 mg. and it is advised to "take daily in three doses." The benefits of this herb relate mostly to mental alertness and increased short-term memory. It is believed that Ginkgo improves the blood flow to the brain. Always consult your health-care provider before taking any new supplement. Some are perfectly safe while others can be dangerous so before you take anything you should get all the current information available on the item.

Q. Is it true that there are certain foods to improve vision?

A. Yes. Foods high in folic acid help protect optic nerve fibers. Greens such as New Zealand spinach, kale, collards and wild greens provide good nutrition for eye tissues. Sea vegetables are also rich in the minerals necessary for good vision.

Q. This past summer I discovered a drink with "guarana" in it and it really boosted my energy but I have heard it is nothing more than a fancy name for caffeine. Help!

A. Guarana, Ephedra, tea and coffee are all stimulants and thus contribute to a feeling of energy however an adrenal rush without the muscles promoting the "pump" can weaken the adrenals and are thus a drain on one's energy. They must not be relied upon for energy. Occasional use is O.K. In the long run, stimulants can be hard on your heart and also your nerves, as most bodies become dependent on the added boosts. Stimulants which come close to that found in coffee and tea are found in a variety of herbs but that doesn't make them superior to common stimulants.

Q. What are Saponins?

A. Saponins are phytochemicals believed to be very protective against cancer. Found in most fruits and vegetables, but especially potatoes and tomatoes, these "saponins" are also helpful in keeping away fungal infections and protecting against a host of viruses.

Q. My favorite massage therapist is an ARNP. What does A.R.N.P. stand for? There seems to be a whole new set of "alphabet soup" letters around these days.

A. A.R.N.P. stands for Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner. Your massage therapist has also completed advanced study in primary care medicine and these kinds of nurses usually work closely with MD's and DO's. Some "initials" behind health care professionals come from being trained in other countries where the "alphabet soup" is different from the way it is in the U.S. of A.