Q: I've been bringing frozen “diet” lunches to work for weeks, but an hour after eating, I'm starving. I've even started stealing coworkers' snacks from the refrigerator! The other day I heard somebody mention the “kitchen thief,” and I wanted to crawl under my desk. I'm afraid I'm just too lazy to lose! What can I do?

Dear Pharmacist,

Two people in my neighborhood have pancreatic cancer, and my favorite actor Patrick Swayze died of it.  What is going on?  What do you know about this and how can we protect ourself? 

--E.D. New York City

Q: Last month I tried a two-week detox diet, and to be perfectly honest, I felt horrible. By dinner on day one I had a dull headache that felt like a mild migraine, and the next morning nausea set in. To make a long story short, I was so miserable I didn't make it past day three. I want to try again, but only if it's possible to ease the pain.

Dear Pharmacist,

I am hearing more about the Swine Flu and I’m getting nervous.  I wasn’t going to get the vaccine, but I’m reconsidering it. Can you help me make this decision?

--E.B. Boston, Massachusetts

Q: I know olive oil is good for me. But I just can't get over the taste. Are there any other oils that are just as good for me?

Dear Pharmacist,

I really need your help because I am now up to 14 medications for the following problems:  High cholesterol, heart disease, pre-diabetes, cataracts, arrhythmias, allergies, memory problems and enlarged prostate (BPH).  The medications make me sick and sleepy.  The reason I am writing to you is because you always have a fresh perspective.  Can you help me get off these medications?  

-- C.P.  Kansas City, Kansas

Q: Is it more healthful to exercise before you eat or after?

Q: School is starting soon. Is there any hope that school food will ever improve?

Dear Dr. Mirkin,

Does high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) cause obesity?

Dear Pharmacist,

I attended an American Idol concert and I got so excited to see my favorite, Adam Lambert, that I developed cardiac arrhythmias.  I went to the ER, the doctor called it “A-fib” and I was sent home with medications.  What do you suggest so that this scary thing doesn’t happen again?

--J.S. Ocala, Florida