Download Tropical fruit juices such as MonaVie, XanGo, Noni, Goji, and Pom

Tropical fruit juices such as MonaVie, XanGo, Noni, Goji,
and Pom Wonderful are making a big splash.
They're promoted for everything from longevity to infections and cancer. The
promotions are so convincing that they sometimes can even make well read
clinicians wonder if the claims are valid.
Most of the claims come back to the fact that these juices contain
antioxidants...but they often sell for over $40/bottle
Acai (A-sigh-EE) is the main ingredient in MonaVie.
Acai is sometimes called a "superfood" because it contains more antioxidants
than blueberries or cranberries. But there's no proof that it's more beneficial than
other foods.
Market forecasters predict that you'll hear a LOT about superfoods. They'll be
one of the new big things in 2007...aimed mainly at aging men.
Mangosteen is often called "Xango" juice. It is high in antioxidants called
xanthones.
Morinda is also known as "Noni" juice. It MIGHT be associated with a few
cases of liver toxicity.
Warn patients on ACEs, ARBs, and spironolactone that morinda is high in
potassium...almost 15 mEq per 8 ounces.
Goji contains sterols that prevent cholesterol absorption... but there's no proof
that drinking Goji helps lower cholesterol.
To be safe, caution warfarin patients to stay away from Goji... it might inhibit
warfarin metabolism.
Pomegranate juice (Pom Wonderful) has preliminary evidence that it might
have some cardiovascular benefits. But there's concern about possible drug
interactions...similar to grapefruit juice.
Tell people they're basically fruit juices and it's okay to drink them in modest
amounts. But despite the hype, there is no proof they cure any disease, and
people shouldn't expect miracles.
Source – Prescriber’s Letter: www.prescribersletter.com