Expert: Dr. Kristina Conner - 7/18/2007

Question
Hello,

I am a 50-year old, healthy caucasian female (had one child).  I have been reading a lot about ionic / liquid  minerals instead of taking them via capsule, etc. ..
To make a VERY long story short..here is what I want to ask...

1.  Which form of vitamin/mineral supplement is best...what about ionic?
2.  What do you think about glconutrients? (glycoscience.org / Mannatech Corp)
3. Any ideas on getting rid of 30 pounds of "middle-age spread"...?? (It is NOT food-related... Believe me, I am being realistic when I tell you that I do NOT consume enough food to keep me at the weight I am...Also, 95% of my diet is totally pure!!)
4.  What type of food replacement is most accepted by the human body?    

Jean Cline
THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU...AND GOD BLESS YOU!!!!!


Answer
Hello Jean,
You have some excellent questions.  I will try to answer them as best as I can.  
Vitamins and minerals come in different forms, so the most absorbable version can vary.  For instance, calcium is best in citrate, malate, or chelate form, while zinc is best in a picolinate form.  In general, I think liquid nutrients are fine but not necessary for most people.  A capsule or tablet that is easily broken down is more stable and cost effective than a liquid.  I would reserve liquids only for those who have significant difficulty swallowing.  If there is an absorption problem, that needs to be addressed first because supplementation will not help otherwise.  If the digestive system is working well, most people should not have a problem breaking down a good quality tablet or capsule.  
As far as glyconutrients, I have not seen convincing third-party evidence that these are helpful.  In general, I am suspicious of multilevel marketing companies, as most products I have seen from these are overpriced and poor quality.  
If you have been gaining weight without changing your diet, there might be a link to adrenal health, thyroid health, hormonal changes, or a combination of all of these going on.  Food sensitivities might be another area to look at.  I'd suggest seeing a naturopathic doctor (www.naturopathic.org) or another holistic doctor to help in finding out, as it can be complicated to do on your own, and you might need some lab tests.  
Food replacement, I am not quite sure what you are asking.  Is this for weight loss, or replacement for another reason?
Thanks for writing.  
Dr Conner