DEAR DR. ROACH: My brother took turmeric every day, after hearing all the hype about it being the new superfood. At his next annual checkup, it was noted that his blood platelets were very low. A month later he died…
blood platelets were very low. A month later he died of a stroke. He was 70. After doing some research on turmeric, I read that indeed it can lower your blood platelets. Is there any chance that low platelets can cause a stroke? This is just a precautionary tale for your readers. — J.S.Turmeric is a commonly used culinary spice that is also used as a medication widely throughout the world. It is generally considered safe.
DEAR DR. ROACH: In a recent article regarding acid reflux, you mentioned Pepcid or Zantac as good options to treat occasional symptoms. I have seen these same two medications suggested before. But I never see cimetidine recommended. I am 75 years old and have used the OTC dosage for about 10 years with good results. I take it a few times a month, usually before I eat any Italian food or if I’m going to eat after 7 p.m.
Ranitidine by several manufacturers has recently been found to be contaminated with a carcinogen called NDMA, but cimetidine and famotidine have not.Respond: Write a letter to the editor | Write a guest opinion