Dear AllStarHealth.com,

Two friends and I are trying to win an office bet by losing 10 lbs each before 3 other coworkers do. We heard lecithin is really good for weight loss because it breaks up fat or fat cells. We want to order some if there’s anything to that. Is there?

Denise F.

Dear Denise,

Lecithin is a terrific natural superfood, almost like several supplements in one since it supplies a mixture of nutritious fats and certain B vitamins. Lecithin is used by the body in a few different ways, but most people use lecithin supplements specifically for cholesterol-support or brain-boosting. So, what about lecithin and weight loss?

You may have been hearing a lot about Acai (ah-sa-EE) berry supplements or acai juice lately. Quite a few AllStarHealth customers have asked us to comment on the new popularity and legitimacy of Acai supplements.

Dear AllStarHealth,

I need advice, please. I am trying to lose about 25 lbs. I do cardio 3 days a week and weights 3 days week. My friend was saying Casein protein was better than Whey protein powder for losing weight. When I went and read up on it, everyone seems to say whey is better because it absorbs faster. Is that true and does it make a difference which one I use?

Thanks,

Lisa Connors,

Springfield, MO

Dear Lisa,

It’s true that whey absorbs faster than casein protein, that’s the gist of it, but it’s not necessarily better for that reason. In fact, while people used to just use one type of protein powder, it’s very common now to see people using 2 or even 3 types to take advantage of the dfferences. They’re just more popular now than ever.

In general, whey is used anytime you want a fast-absorbing protein, not necessarily one that’s going to fill you up for a long time or sustain growth while you sleep. So for most people, whey is best for good for a breakfast shake, a preworkout shake, or post-workout shake.

Dear AllStarHealth,

One thing I’m still confused about with protein shakes is whether they are going to make you slimmer or bulkier?

Dear AllStarHealth,

We’re trying to avoid hydrogenated oils, which I understand are bad for your heart. I’ve noticed that the bars we buy have something called ‘fractionated’ oils. That doesn’t sound good! What are they and are they as bad for you as hydrogenated oils?

Thanks,

Del Garza

Dear Del,

Both fractionation and hydrogenation are ways of processing an oil to change the consistency and melting point. But fractionated oils are totally different than hydrogenated oils and don’t pose the same health risks.

Dear AllStarHealth,

You probably get this question around every Thanksgiving; what is it in turkey that makes people tired, is it really the tryptophan and everyone seems to suggest? I’ve tried taking tryptophan for insomnia and it didn’t seem to make me tired at all.

Thanks,

Frank Bucholz, Hanover, PA

A: The idea that it’s the tryptophan in turkey, and not other factors, that induces the post-meal drowsiness has been around for a long time now. It arose in the early 80’s when….

Q: I see you have a whole section of testosterone boosters. But I don’t really know how to pick one, and they all make some pretty tall claims. Heard good and bad things about them. I figure since you guys see what sells and what doesn’t, you’d have an idea about which is the best test booster?

Thanks,

Thousands of customers, everywhere.

Based on the kinds of questions customers email us, it’s pretty clear: one thing everyone seems to need more of is energy. While there are some great products you can use for a useful short-term energy boost, you can’t depend on these to get you through life, and you’ll need a better long-term solution. Make sure you’re not losing juice to these hidden energy sappers.

Q: Dad’s health is getting worse…his weight is going up, because heart trouble keeps him from getting his usual exercise…then, yesterday they told him “You are borderline Diabetic… You need to get your diet under control…”
I know that he’s going to go looking for cheats and treats because of his sweet tooth (Which I also inherited.) Figured I’d see if you guys had some ideas of stuff that will help. For instance I was thinking about making him a tub of Blueberry Frozen Yogurt… Half Sweetend up with splenda…Thanks for any help.

Walter “Wally” Pike,

Mountain Iron, MN

A: Thanks for writing, Wally. We certainly do have a few options for you and your Dad to consider….

Holidays are supposed to be a time of reflection, companionship and joy. And they usually are, until you get sick. Yes, the Cold & Flu season is here again and waiting to pounce. But we’ve got you covered. Here’s how to whip that immune system into shape and keep it running at full power so you enjoy unwrapping presents instead of another box of Kleenex. You can do any or all of these things, but don’t wait too long to get started. Fall in, soldier!