STARTING SUPPLEMENTS

Dear Kat,

On pg. 161 in your book you recommend a High-potency multivitamin. There are so many. If you're generally in good health or without any disease; do you still take all recommended supplements. I feel a little intimidated, is there a maintenance-regimen regarding the supplementation?


T.T.
Redlands, CA

Dear T. T.,

Be sure to read on, particularly on page 169, where I suggest an overall approach and mention some cautions and tips when starting a supplement regimen. I've made clear charts showing which supplements address which issues, such as weight-related issues like blood sugar or thyroid issues, so it wouldn't make sense to take all of them. What does make the most sense is to really look into your health issues and donÕt simply seek a prescription at the doctor's office, in lieu of deeper knowledge of your health issues. Most importantly, in response to your question, I repeatedly stress the importance of customizing your regimen to your specific health needs and evolving as those needs change. The best way to do that is with the help of a nutrition-oriented doctor. You'll find resources, like HealthWorld Online's physician referral at www.healthy.net, and others listed at the back of my book. That said, on pp. 270-271 I've listed several of the best multivitamin regimens, such as Megafood, famous for their Foodstateª nutrients which are utilized far better by the body than isolated nutrients . The list is not by any means complete, but you may find it helpful.

- K.J.

 
BETTER WATER FILTERS

Dear Kat,

I have been concerned about the chlorine in my tap water for some time, what you say in your book has convinced me I want to rectify it. If I do a shower filter, then what about when I wash my face at the sink? What do you think about systems that clear out the chlorine for all the water in my house?


Respectfully,
Lisa

P.S. I love your book! There is so much info I want to keep with me when I shop that I am compiling a small spreadsheet I can access from my Palm Pilot. Thanks for compiling such needed information.

Dear Lisa,

If you've read page 182 of my book, you surely see the value of a whole-house system, or at least both a shower filter and a faucet filter. I fill my bath from my shower filter and wash my face with the shower water. I once had dry and irritated skin, but no more. Part of the improvement was from supplements, but much of it was also from upgrading to purified water. When I stay with a friend or at a hotel and bathe in chlorinated water, I immediately sense irritation. l advise you to invest, if possible in one of the top-rated systems, such as Multi-Pure or Doulton, which exceed NSF Standards. For the shower, be sure to buy a filter with KDF technology. I use Nikken filtration systems which exceeds the aforementioned standards and also ionize and alkalize the water with magnets and ceramics. They are very expensive, and distributed here through InformedBeauty.com.

- K.J.

 
HAIR LOSS HELP

Dear Kat,

I'm very impressed by what I have read about you and I would like if possible for you to recommend something for thinning hair,


I.

Miami Beach, FL

Dear I.,

In my book, I mention several types of hair loss. "Male pattern" hair loss is actually the most common type of hair loss in women; it is mostly hereditary. Stress-related or patchy hair loss, called alopecia areata, is also common, and of a different cause, usually autoimmune in origin. A product called Viviscal was found to reverse both types of hair loss in several independent studies. ItÕs active ingredient is a marine protein. DHT-blocking hair loss products are available over-the-counter in healthfood stores, and over the internet (such as Revivogen and Hair Genesis). DHT is a type of testosterone that appears to play a part in male pattern hair loss and even some types of acne. Natural DHT-blocking products work comparably to the hair-loss Propecia, on "male pattern" hair loss, without the risks of sexual and reproductive side-effects. They usually contain saw palmetto berry extract, although the list of known DHT-blockers is expanding. These products don't work for everyone, and they take six to nine months to work if they're going to. Consistency and patience are key.

- K.J.

For more Kat James Q&A:
  • Makeup for Rosacea
  • Topical C
  • Perfume Realities

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