Fans of Xocai write in
Dear Readers: I received a two-page e-mail from Dr. Steven E. Warren regarding Xocai, a dark-chocolate product mentioned in my column last month.
A reader had written to me indicating Xocai is used to lower cholesterol levels and blood pressure readings, and to reduce inflammatory problems such as arthritis, as well. She went on to state that Xocai is currently being promoted and sold via pyramid-selling methods, so she questioned the validity of the claims. Having never heard of Xocai, I didn’t know whether it could be purchased at my local pharmacy, grocery or health food store, but I know more now.
MXI Corp., established in 2005 and based out of Reno, Nev., claims that Xocai is a natural appetite suppressant and energy booster and a home-based business opportunity. Apparently, this is where my reader got the impression it is sold through pyramid-selling methods.
I was amazed to find claims of “earn $2,000 to $40,000 a month with Xocai” and “join top-earning distributors and earn six figures” when viewing the hits on my screen. I don’t know about my readers’ earning capabilities, but that’s a lot of money. I should add that the individual promoting the monthly sales claims to be a top distributor for MXI. He concluded by stating that Xocai is a registered trademark of MXI Corp.
I stand by my statement that in an attempt to improve general health, we should all eat healthful meals that include fresh fruits and vegetables and exercise, and enjoy chocolate as a special treat, not as a daily function.
My furthest thought was to cause disharmony for buyers and sellers. When it comes to pyramid schemes, my opinion is that they should be avoided, but I did not say Xocai was sold using this method, simply that all pyramid schemes should be avoided. Unless MXI’s home-based business opportunity is more than just that, there isn’t an issue here. If one wants to consume Xocai or other forms of dark chocolate because they believe it to benefit health, then do so, but just remember to include a nutritious and balanced diet, as well.
Dear Dr. Gott: A friend of mine who is a diabetic passed a simple suggestion on to me. Her ophthalmologist suggested she take one tablet of chromium picolinate each morning.
Dear Reader: Chromium picolinate is a combination of chromium and picolinic acid. Chromium is a naturally occurring mineral with minimal amounts found in meat, poultry, whole-grain breads and fish. The addition of the picolinic acid assists the body with the absorption of chromium and is popular on the market today.
Depending on the source of your information, it is purported to burn calories, control appetite, increase muscle tone, increase energy and lifespan, prevent acne and more. On the reverse side, some scientific evidence states this supplement is ineffective. It is found in many herbal weight-loss remedies, but because it is a nutritional supplement and not a prescription drug, the Food and Drug Administration can’t take a stand on claims presented. Therefore, I must defer to your primary-care physician.
To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “Fads: Vitamins and Minerals.” Other readers who would like a copy should send a self-addressed, stamped, No. 10 envelope and $2 to Newsletter, P.O. Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.