You Decide: Is ZICAM safe or effective?

After my last post, I received an excellent comment regarding ZICAM® that I felt warranted a post of its own.  This comment demonstrates some of the misconceptions regarding “safety” and “efficacy” of products.  I glossed over some of the reasoning behind my statements in my last post, so to be fair, I will present the rest of the story.  At the end of the day though, whether ZICAM® provides a marginal benefit for treating the common cold or not, and whether it is safe or not is not my point.  My point is Read more

ZICAM and Colds

ZICAM® would appear to be the latest casualty in the growing list of over-the-counter medications that have now been recalled.  ZICAM® has been marketed for the last several years as a “cure” for the common cold.  Just put this stuff up your nose at the first sign of a cold and you will either shorten the duration of the illness or prevent it altogether.  Sounds great, right?  But there is mounting evidence of a very serious side effect… Read more

Dr. Bob’s Alternative Vaccine Schedule

Many parents have read The Vaccine Book, written by Dr. Sears, and have decided to use either his alternative or selective vaccine schedule.  For those who read this blog, you will note that I have recommended it as a useful book.  I think the book is well researched and gives parents a nice balance of the potential risks of vaccines and the actual risks of the diseases the vaccines are meant to prevent. Read more

Toasted Barley & Asparagus “Risotto”

When properly prepared this dish has a pasta-like consistency.  The Barley is an excellent source of both fiber and protein.  There are numerous reports on the cholesterol-lowering effects of barley.  The Parmesan cheese adds a creamy touch without all the added fat and cholesterol.  The asparagus is low in calories but high in vitamins and minerals – especially calcium.  The tomatoes add some color and are one of the best sources of the anti-cancer compound lycopene. Read more