Suthin Liptawat

The Sonoma Diet

This is the story of a patient of mine who follows the Sonoma Diet with gratifying result.

This patient is about 50 years old. He weighed more than 350 lbs. He tried to lose weight but without success due to lack of motivation and lack of knowledge about the concept behind weight reduction methods. He used to skip meals to try to lose weight but he gained weight instead.

After reading the Sonoma Diet book by Connie Guttersen, I told him to read the book without following the diet plan itself. He did not follow my advice.

About 4 months ago,his blood pressures and blood glucose levels began to rise to the point that medications might be needed. His low back pain got worse. he asked me to give him another 2 months before prescribing medications for him.

Licorice: Is it dangerous to use?

Licorice Root

Common Names--licorice root,licorice,sweet root, gan zao(Chinese licorice)

Latin Name-- Glycyrrhiza glabra

What is it used for: Licorice root has been used for canker sores(aphthous ulcers),bleeding ulcers caused by aspirin,herpes simplex virus infection,peptic ulcer disease and viral hepatitis. Evidence-based Level C (Unclear Sscientific evidence for the mentioned uses),according to the book: Natural Standard,Herb&Supplement Reference by Catherine E. Ulbricht and Ethan M. Basch.

How is it used:

• Dried and powdwered form.
• Capsules,tablets and liquid extracts
• Licorice can be found with glycyrrhizin removed,called DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice)

Coffee: Is it good for you?

We have heard or read conflicting reports about coffee whether it is good or bad for your health.

I have good news for you.

The following is an excerpt from my favorite wellness newsletter: www.WellnessLetter.com. It is the newsletter of nutrition, fitness and and self-care, from the School of Public Health, University of California,Berkeley.

How can coffee be good for you?  Read on.