DEAR DR. BLONZ: Please explain more about placebos and controls and whether they can actually bring about health benefits. -- G.B., Anderson, South Carolina... more

DEAR DR. BLONZ: As an Oakland, California, resident, I appreciate each of your columns in the East Bay Times. The recent column on protein was timely, as I am a 71-year-old, just over a hip replacemen... more

DEAR DR. BLONZ: This is about a solution to the stomach problems that were experienced by my daughter. We were not sure whether it was some medical condition, stress, or even a food allergy. At a peri... more

DEAR DR. BLONZ: We had great-tasting grilled frozen swordfish steaks at a friend’s place, prepared according to the package instructions. I would appreciate your comment on whether this is a good fish... more

DEAR DR. BLONZ: I have been eating more nuts and seeds, and also adding them to our children's lunches. Walnuts are a favorite. I would like to know their effect on blood lipids and triglycerides. In ... more

DEAR DR. BLONZ: I have a question concerning recommended servings of foods, how they have been determined over the years and the confusion with food labels. It can be unclear when checking serving siz... more

DEAR DR. BLONZ: Our son, now 13, has grown about four inches in the past year. Lately, he has mentioned experiencing some muscular pains when playing soccer, often stating that the soles of his feet h... more

DEAR DR. BLONZ: The talk at the gym among my 50-something crowd is that protein needs are especially important for those seeking to build muscle. A popular drink at the cafe has a vitamin and collagen... more

DEAR DR. BLONZ: I recently read an article about the cancer risks associated with cooking food on the grill, but I have always wondered if these same cautions apply to both charcoal and gas BBQs. We a... more

DEAR DR. BLONZ: Is there any concern about the different forms of ascorbic acid in many vitamin C supplements, that some are not the best form for the body? I read that rose hips should be used for vi... more

DEAR DR. BLONZ: I am limiting foods with added simple carbs in my diet, but I am concerned after learning that maltodextrin is all over and considered the worst kind of carbohydrate. I checked and fou... more

DEAR DR. BLONZ: My regular enjoyment of cashews was put at risk when I heard someone say at a party that they never ate them since they learned cashews contain a toxin and must be avoided. I was skept... more

DEAR DR. BLONZ: I know that if you are predisposed to kidney stones, consuming foods high in oxalates is not a good idea. But I also read that oxalates will accumulate in the body. And they are descri... more