DEAR DR. BLONZ: I am a female in my early 20s and have started taking a mineral supplement to build up calcium before I start losing it. I was wondering if there is a best time of day to take this? --... more

DEAR DR. BLONZ: I am almost 83, and often make green split pea soup using freshly bought dried split peas. I use only a small amount of salt, and ensure the peas are well-covered with cold water. I pu... more

DEAR DR. BLONZ: Compared with 75% lean, would 95% lean ground beef be considered low-fat? This came up during a discussion at a burger party, and we all recorded our votes. Is one that much more healt... more

DEAR DR. BLONZ: Nutrition labels on foods and meats show their fat content. But when meat items get cooked, such as bacon, sausage and ground meats, fat gets rendered out. Does the package labeling in... more

DEAR DR. BLONZ: I am a borderline diabetic. I like beer, so I drink a 12-ounce bottle about three times a week. Am I doing a disservice to my health by drinking beer? What about drinking it before a m... more

DEAR DR. BLONZ: There is a history of macular degeneration in my family, and I understand that lutein and zeaxanthin are nutrients needed to slow its progression. What is your view on supplements as a... more

DEAR DR. BLONZ: I would like your help to settle an argument at a recent dinner. There seems to be such a push to restrict salt consumption in general, but the only hazard I am aware of is that salt c... more

DEAR DR. BLONZ: Since the pandemic, I haven't been able to find good old-fashioned bagged barley in any grocery store. This is a product that arguably has been around since the early days of man -- no... more

DEAR DR. BLONZ: What is the connection between a very high-protein diet, calcium absorption and bone health? Does it matter whether the excess protein is from animal or plant sources? -- J.F., Boston... more

DEAR DR. BLONZ: My husband and I will be trying to start a family next year. We are both in good health, with no chronic ailments or genetic issues. My diet is fine, but not ideal. I have managed to c... more

DEAR DR. BLONZ: I am in my middle years, and my hair has become thin and is subject to frequent breakage. Someone suggested that I try some Norwegian kelp, as it was claimed to bolster the thyroid, wh... more

DEAR DR. BLONZ: I often see commercials for capsules of powdered greens and fruits and how they supply important nutrients and antioxidants, the same as eating whole fruits and vegetables. I have been... more

DEAR DR. BLONZ: I received information from my doctor's office that read: "Don't take a multivitamin and mineral supplement containing iron. Men can't eliminate iron except through blood loss. High le... more