/oss/taxonomy/term/1790/all en /oss/article/controversial-science-diets-health-news-toxicity/gluten-free-diets-and-mythologies-surrounding-them <p>This week’s column is guaranteed to generate controversy. There will be all sorts of anecdotes from people who say they have lost weight, gained energy and just feel better after eliminating wheat. I wouldn’t be surprised to hear claims that Lou Gehrig’s ALS was caused by eating Wheaties. And I’m sure I will be urged to just try a wheat-free diet instead of looking at the scientific literature.</p> <p>Gluten-free diets and the mythologies surrounding them</p> Sun, 10 Aug 2014 02:45:36 +0000 Joe Schwarcz PhD 2177 at /oss /oss/article/science-science-everywhere/immunity-quacks <p>Would any parent believe that serving Rice Krispies or Cocoa Krispies to their children can help protect them from catching the flu? You would think not. But what if that box of cereal has a banner splashed across its front declaring that it “now helps support your child’s immunity?” Would that not possibly lead someone to think that this cereal should be chosen over others? Or that they may then get away with being less careful about other protective measures against the flu? I think it’s possible. So, can these cereals really improve immune function? Not really.</p> Sun, 20 Nov 2011 19:35:51 +0000 Joe Schwarcz PhD 1608 at /oss