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Q. I am curious to know if anyone has tried the gin-soaked raisins for arthritic dogs. I have an 80 lb. dog with arthritic hips, although she is only 6. Daily aspirin and glucosamine is helping somewhat but not enough. How many raisins (if any) should I give her?
A. Gin-soaked raisins may seem like a tasty arthritis remedy for people, but we advise you not to give them to your dog. The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center has received a number of reports connecting kidney failure in dogs with grapes or raisins (J. Am. Vet. Med. Assoc. May 15, 2001). Most of these animals had ingested a large quantity, but experts do not know if small amounts of raisins daily over a long period would also pose a problem.
Q. I have read that nuts are healthy even though they are high in fat. I presently eat seven almonds a day. Is that too many? My husband and I are thinking of adding walnuts to our diet. If we do add them, how many should we eat?
A. Almonds are rich in monounsaturated fat like that found in olive oil. They are also a good source for fiber, vitamin E and protein. Seven almonds is well below the daily ounce (23 almonds) that has been found in studies to help lower bad LDL cholesterol by about 4 percent.
Walnuts contain healthful fat as well, primarily omega-3 polyunsaturated fat. The FDA now allows walnut packaging to carry a health claim based on research showing that one and a half ounces of walnuts daily (about 1/3 cup) can help lower LDL cholesterol. The diet has to be low in cholesterol and saturated fat. You might want to alternate eating almonds one day and walnuts the next.
Q. My husband has suffered from depression for years. The doctor prescribed Zoloft, which worked quite well for the depression, but it completely ruined our love life. My husband quit taking it because he hated having no libido and not being able to reach climax.
A naturopathic doctor suggested St. John's wort as an alternative. It seems to be working well, but we read that he should avoid sunlight. That's not easy in the summer. Can you tell us more about this herb, especially what other antidepressants or pharmaceuticals should be avoided? If you have a booklet we would be very interested.
A. Some people react to St. John's wort by developing a rash or a bad burn when exposed to sun. Sunscreen and protective clothing can help prevent this problem.
Eyes can also be damaged, so it is critical to stay out of the sun as much as possible. Even sunglasses may not protect the eyes from harm because visible light interacts with hypericin, an ingredient in St. John's wort. St. John's wort can interact with many other medications including antidepressants like Prozac, Paxil and Zoloft as well as Lipitor and Lanoxin.
We are sending you our Guides to St. John's wort and Antidepressant Pros and Cons with more information on interactions and other considerations. Anyone who would like copies, please send $1 in check or money order with a long (no. 10) stamped (60 cents), self-addressed envelope: Graedons' People's Pharmacy, No. VX-27, P. O. Box 52027, Durham, NC 27717-2027.
Q. What are the benefits and dangers of taking Boswellia?
A. Boswellia is a resin from a tree that grows in North Africa and Arabia. It has anti-inflammatory properties and has been used to treat joint pain. Some people report mild digestive upset.
