Berkeley Wellness Alerts

Dietary Supplements Alerts

A Cold Remedy That Works?

Cold-fX, a patented extract of American ginseng root, has been tested in several studies, with promising results.

Sizing Up St. John’s Wort

Many people with depression turn to St. John’s wort, an herbal supplement. Despite the promising research, there are some caveats to keep in mind.

Açaí: The Ponzi Berry

Offers for açaí juice and supplements have flooded the nation’s email boxes and airwaves. Don’t get hoodwinked by the claims and "free trials."

How to Choose a Vitamin D Supplement

Because of growing evidence about the benefits of vitamin D—for bone health, muscle function, and possibly even prevention of some cancers and other illnesses—many people are rushing out to buy vitamin D pills. Here’s what to look for.

Vitamin A and Your Bones

News that vitamin A can weaken bones caused shock eight years ago and continues to cause confusion, leading many people to wonder if they should toss their multivitamins.

Ginkgo: An Herb to Remember?

Many people take ginkgo to sharpen their memory and concentration, as well as for other positive effects on mind and body. Should you believe these claims or forget about them?

When Niacin Is a Drug

The B vitamin niacin can improve blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels dramatically. Statins are usually the first choice, but niacin is also worth considering, especially if your HDL is low.

Quercetin: Food vs. Supplements

One of the most promising compounds in fruits and vegetables, quercetin is showing up in more and more supplements—including FRS, a widely advertised sports aid endorsed by Lance Armstrong.

Sizing Up St. John’s Wort

Many people with depression turn to St. John’s wort, an herbal supplement. Despite the promising research, there are some caveats to keep in mind.

A Supplement to Save Your Vision?

Some eye supplements are promoted to protect against age-related macular degeneration, a major cause of vision loss among older people. Do they work?

The Creatine Craze

Creatine is one of the most popular sports supplements on the market. It’s also one of the most researched. But that hardly means you should jump on the creatine bandwagon.

Liver Supplements: Filtering Out The Claims

Your liver helps digest food and cleans the blood of impurities, among other essential functions. Dozens of dietary supplements are touted to protect this vital organ.

Glucosamine and Chondroitin: Real or Placebo Effect?

Millions of Americans take glucosamine, often with chondroitin sulfate, for the aches and pains of osteoarthritis. Over the years, research has yielded inconsistent findings, but more recent studies have made things clearer.