Ask the Experts

Late Life Behavior Change 

Q: I feel like I’m too old to change my habits. Is it true that you can’t teach an old dog new tricks? A: Judith...

Coconut Oil

Q: You say to avoid fats that are solid at room temperature. Does that include coconut oil? A: Alice H. Lichtenstein, DSc, senior scientist...

A Calorie is a Calorie

Q: I keep thinking of the old expression, “a calorie is a calorie.” What does this mean, and is it true? A: Alice H....

Actionable Information

Q: I found the June article on cooking terminology interesting, but it’s not what I’m used to seeing in this newsletter. Has there been...

Prunes and Regularity … Caffeine Sensitivity

Q: My mother used to drink prune juice to help with regularity. Now I’m hearing people talk about prunes again. Is there really something...

Ask Tufts Experts: June 2023

Climate Change Impacting Coffee . . . Diet and Gout Q: I was interested to learn about the negative environmental impact of food waste (February...

Defining Cardiovascular Disease Terms

Q: I’m confused about the terms “heart disease,” “cardiovascular disease,” and “coronary artery disease.” Are these all the same? A: Dariush Mozaffarian, MD, DrPH,...

Melatonin Supplements

Q: In last month’s article about optimizing sleep, you mention melatonin but don’t mention melatonin supplements. How helpful are they? A: Aarti Grover, MD, medical...

Vitamin C Supplements … Processed Meat

Q: I’ve been taking vitamin C since the 1970s. Should I continue taking it? Should I boost my intake if I feel a cold...

Psyllium vs. Wheat Dextrin

Q: What is the difference between psyllium fiber supplements and those with wheat dextrin? A: Judith C. Thalheimer, RD, LDN, a registered dietitian and managing...