Dear Dr. Cutler,

I am a 55-year-old woman with a twin sister who has recently been diagnosed as bipolar. We share a house, and I want to be supportive of my sister, but I would like to encourage her to try natural methods to control the disorder. Her doctor is already prescribing heavy-duty prescription meds. Could you give me some ideas? Also, as her twin, am I destined to become bipolar, as well?

—Jessica N.

Question:

I have Type 1 diabetes and have to watch my blood sugar very carefully. I want to get more potassium in my diet, but the only good sources I know are bananas, raisins, prunes, and potatoes. Can you tell me some low glycemic sources of potassium that I might add to my diet?

Dear Pharmacist,

In a previous column on apple cider vinegar (ACV), you stated that “heartburn and reflux can sometimes be related to insufficient levels of stomach acid, not high levels like many of you who take acid blockers assume.” Really Suzy? I’ve been on Omeprazole for years for heartburn. My doctor says you’re nuts and got angry when I questioned him.

--T.B. Ft. Lauderdale, Florida

Q: One of my friends said she heard essential fatty acids are bad for you. Is that true?

Dr. Wright: In the past couple of years, there have been a few studies linking one particular essential fatty acid, alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) to increased risk of prostate cancer and cataracts. ALA is the major fatty acid found in flaxseed and flaxseed oil. While not all of the studies on ALA agree with these findings, there is enough evidence to be cause for some concern.

Dear Pharmacist,

I celebrate Hanukkah and my husband celebrates Christmas? Why am I telling you this? We both have big families and the food doesn’t stop for 2 weeks solid! I have worked hard all year to lose 24 pounds and I’m scared to gain back all the weight. Any ideas?

--P.D.  Hollywood, Florida

Q: I've been having a problem with terrible, painful gas on a daily basis. Do I need to cut out certain foods, or is there a natural treatment I can try?

Dear Pharmacist,

I’m taking Norvasc, Atenolol and a statin cholesterol drug, Crestor.  The side effects are intolerable. Do you know of any natural ways to lower blood pressure?

--T.E.  Salt Lake City, UT

Dear Dr. Mirkin,

Do all sugared beverages increase risk for diabetes?

Dear Pharmacist,

I had a mastectomy this summer and I am scared to lose my other breast too.  I recently found out about you and bought your “24-Hour” book and it has some information, but I want more guidance, specifically as it pertains to breast cancer.  What else can you tell me?

--N.L.  Seattle, Washington

Dear Pharmacist,

I’ve had monthly cramps for years so I take lots of Motrin and Midol.  My mom came over and put an old-fashioned castor oil pack on me.   It worked like magic.  Can I apply it regularly? What else are castor oil packs used for?  

--C.S. Gainesville, Florida