Consumer Alert: Hoodia Gordonii weight loss pills scam exposed by independent investigation

Consumer Alert: Hoodia Gordonii weight loss pills scam exposed by independent investigation




As the popularity of hoodia skyrocketed since mid-2004, the bulk materials hoodia suppliers in South Africa were getting squeezed. Demand was skyrocketing, but the supply of hoodia couldn't be ramped up overnight. In fact, the hoodia gordonii plant requires 5 - 7 years to reach maturity, so there was a sudden shortage of raw material.

Many commercial buyers in the U.S. were duped by South African hoodia suppliers who used these tactics.

Diet Pills

Probiotics to chew on? Friendly bacteria gum fights tooth decay

Probiotics to chew on? Friendly bacteria gum fights tooth decay

Scientists at German chemical company BASF have developed a gum that contains probiotics -- or "friendly bacteria" -- which they say can help prevent tooth decay by preventing harmful bacteria from adhering to teeth.

The Lactobacillus anti-caries in the chewing gum reduce concentrations of Streptococcus mutans by causing them to clump, which prevents them from sticking to teeth.

"The effectiveness has been demonstrated and the first oral hygiene products containing probiotic lactobacilli are scheduled to appear in 2007," said Dr. Andreas Reindl of BASF.

tooth decay