Sharing: letters from our readers

Better Nutrition, March, 2005 by J. Erickson, V. Lee Grotz

In your November 2004 issue, in the "Diagnosis: Hypothyroidism" article (p. 46), Dr. Mary Bove mentions a "botanical thyroid formula" that she put her patient Gall on, consisting of coleus, bladderwrack, guggul and so forth. Can yon please tell me the name and brand of the formula and where it can be obtained?

J. Erickson * Via email

Dr. Bore responds: Gaia Herbs makes a formula very similar to the one I spoke of. It is available at many health food stores, For more information about this product, visit www.gaiaherbs.com. Hope this helps.

Better Nutrition readers should be aware of misleading information found in the January 2005 issue ("Sharing," p. 8). The letters misinform readers with unsubstantiated claims and distortions about Splenda brand sucralose. It was inaccurately and irresponsibly suggested that sucralose has not been thoroughly studied and that it may pose a health risk. Such comments have no foundation in sound science and serve only to confuse and unnecessarily alarm consumers. It is important that your readers know the facts.

Since its introduction over a decade ago, millions of people have safely enjoyed products made with sucralose. Sucralose has been tested at extremely high doses in long-term studies without any adverse health consequences. It is one of the most tested food ingredients ever introduced, and its safety has been confirmed by regulatory authorities in more than 80 countries. An extensive database of scientific research demonstrates sucralose has no harmful effects and is safe for everyone, including sensitive populations such as people with diabetes, children and pregnant women. All consumers should be comfortable using products with Splenda. Splenda brand products can also be a part of a healthy diet and a means to help reduce added sugar consumption and calories.

We hope that your readers will consider scientific evidence and facts, not Internet propaganda, unconfirmed anecdotes and rumors, when making decisions about the use of Splenda brand products. For factual information about Splenda, we encourage both you and your readers to visit www.splenda.com or contact us at 800.7.SPLENDA.

V. Lee Grotz, PhD, Director, Post Marketing Surveillance and Splenda McNeil Nutritionals, LLC * New Brunswick, New Jersey