From: Linda Burton <lburton@cce.cornell.edu>
I am curious if any readers of this list have come into contact with
colloidal mineral and vitamin supplement products. They seem to be very
popular right now and come backed by an incredible list of benefits for
those who take the preparation for long terms. (The promoter actually
recommends you take the product for life) The product I have seen is sold
through a pyramid-like or Amway- like scheme, which makes me skeptical.
The reinforcement for taking the product becomes sales you can make to
others rather than any improvement in one's health or nutritional status.
I have seen similar liquid colloidal mineral products sold in health food
stores and catalogs. The tape accompanying the product made a couple
unusual claims that I have never run across in any of my nutrition
coursework, reading or research- Any comments?
-Selenium deficiency and gray hair, liver (aging) spots and facial
wrinkles
-Calcium deficiency and arthritis
-Chromium and vanadium deficiency and sweet and chocolate cravings
and diabetes
The speaker on the tape did claim there was research on rabbits that
showed a relationship between vanadium deficiency and the development (and
subsequent cure) of diabetes.
Has anyone seen any research on any of these relationships?
Linda Burton, M.S.
Extension Educator
Jamestown, N.Y.