Q: A friend who had 100 pounds to lose started following a strict 1,200-calorie diet devised by a nutritionist, and she dropped 8 pounds in two weeks. I want to lose 30 pounds, so l began the same diet but in two weeks I’ve lost only 1 pound.

Why isn’t it working for me?

Question: Do you have any information on natural treatments for candidiasis?

Q: I’ve been using antibacterial soap to prevent the spread of germs around my house. But now I’m hearing these soaps may actually increase the risk of infection. What gives? Are they safe or not?

––Robert A., Burlington, VT

Question: I recently underwent cardioversion treatment for my irregular heartbeat. I know the fibrillation can come back—what can I do to reduce my chances of a quick recurrence?

Q: I just turned 50 and my doctor recommends a colonoscopy. What is virtual colonoscopy? How does it compare to conventional colonoscopy.

Q: I've heard a lot about how good extra virgin olive oil is for your health -- but what about olives themselves? Where I live, "olive bars" have become very popular, and I admit to being more than a little addicted myself. Do I need to feel guilty or cut back?

Q: I have always been puzzled about when to take supplements -- on an empty stomach, or a full stomach? Should I do what my system tolerates best, or is there some rule of thumb depending on what I'm taking?

Q: Are there any alternatives to taking antidepressants?  I keep hearing bad news about the effects of antidepressants. Do you know of anything else that can help battle depression?

Dear Pharmacist,

I watched Montel Williams talk about his multiple sclerosis on Oprah. He described a knife-like, burning pain in his legs similar to what I experience. Since I’ve started taking the vitamin B12 you suggested in Chapter 15 of your Drug Muggers book, my pain has lessened. What other suggestions do you have for people with MS?

J.P.

--Seattle, Washington

Q: My “insurance plan” doctor tells me I shouldn’t take estrogen—even bio-identical estrogen—because it will increase my risk of a blood clot and maybe a stroke. Is this true?

––CS, via e-mail