Expert: Dr. Kristina Conner - 6/17/2006

Question
1. What kind of chemicals are used in non-organic green tea?
2. I take a multivitamin (centrum), flax seed oil, and magnesium supplements; are there any nutrients you suspect as a normal American I might be lacking in?
3. Do you believe fluoridated toothpaste is healthy?  I have read conflicting advice on the issue.  

Answer
Mr Smith,
Thanks for your questions.  I will answer them as best as I can.  
I do not know exactly which chemicals are used for cultivation of conventional green tea; most likely it is variable depending on where it is grown.  I always recommend organic green tea because it is widely available and still very cost effective.  
Many people are low in essential fatty acids, B vitamins, zinc, magnesium, calcium, iron, quality protein, and  other nutrients if eating a standard American diet.  It is difficult to say whether this is enough without knowing your history, but is a good start for most people.  I would recommend that you get high quality supplements, though, as it makes a big difference.  I do not think Centrum is good quality and most one a day formulas are not enough in general unless you have an excellent whole foods organic diet.  
Fluorine is important for some people to get in daily dental care products, but many people need a once or twice yearly treatment only.  There are many ways to prevent dental disease, and fluorine is just one of them.  
I hope that answers your questions and gives you some ideas for areas to look at.  Good luck in your search.  
Dr Conner