People's Pharmacy

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Garlic Flea Remedy Dangerous For Dog

Posting Date: 09/19/2005

Q. I love all kinds of chocolate. But no matter when I eat or drink it, I stay awake most of the night. Is there any way to get around this effect so I can enjoy chocolate and get its health benefits without losing sleep?

A. Although chocolate has very little caffeine (about as much as a cup of decaffeinated coffee), it does contain a related compound called theobromine. Some people are sensitive to its stimulant properties and may have to avoid chocolate.

Cocoa contains the same beneficial flavonoids as chocolate as long as it is processed without alkali. It too contains theobromine, so you may need to be cautious and limit the amount that you consume.

Q. I love licorice. My daughter and I both crave it, but I understand that black licorice could be harmful. What is the problem?

Does red licorice also cause trouble? I have tried Twizzlers red as a substitute and wonder if there is any limit on it.

A. The only limit on red licorice is caloric. Red Twizzlers do not contain any actual licorice.

Natural black licorice candy is flavored with the extract of the licorice plant (Glycyrrhiza glabra). Too much (one ounce daily for weeks) can disrupt hormone balance and cause lack of libido, potassium loss, muscle weakness, fluid retention and high blood pressure.

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In their column, Joe and Teresa Graedon answer letters from readers. Write to them in care of this newspaper or e-mail them via their Web site: www.PeoplesPharmacy.org. Their newest book is The People's Pharmacy Guide to Home and Herbal Remedies (St. Martin's Press).