Q. When I came down with COVID-19, I lost my senses of smell and taste. I have recovered from the virus, but after nine weeks, my senses of smell and taste have not returned. I can taste salt, sweet and “hot” spiciness, but I cannot distinguish the flavor from the food or drink that generates those flavors.
I have read that 600 mg daily of alpha lipoic acid (ALA) might help restore smell and taste in some situations. Do you have any insights on the ability of ALA to restore these senses?
A. The loss of taste and/or smell are early symptoms of infection with the coronavirus and may linger after recovery. A report in the Journal of Laryngology and Otology (August 2020) notes that in some studies “around 25% of patients evaluated 30 days after the clinical onset of COVID-19 have severe chemosensitive disorders ...” These researchers found that while most people get better within a month, 7.2% of post-COVID patients may still complain of loss of taste and smell two months later.
One small study found that “alpha lipoic acid may be helpful in patients with olfactory loss after upper respiratory tract infection” (Laryngoscope, November 2002). We have not found any studies of ALA for post-COVID sensory deficits. The 600 mg dose you mention has also been used to treat peripheral neuropathy (International Journal of Endocrinology, Jan. 26, 2012).
Q. I have a history of gout, which has permanently affected the big toe joint of my right foot. Theoretically, I should not be a gout victim: I weigh 140 pounds, eat a healthy vegan diet and exercise regularly. In my most recent few attacks my uric acid level was measured at 6. What suggestions can you offer?
A. A uric acid level of 6 is considered problematic for people with gout attacks. You may need a prescription medicine to get it into an acceptable range.
Another option may sound a little silly, but it has scientific support. Consider tart cherry supplements, either as juice or extract in capsules. A systematic review of six trials found that people taking tart cherry juice or extract had fewer gout flare-ups and lower uric acid (Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, Dec. 4, 2019). A randomized controlled trial confirmed the effect on uric acid and found that capsules are more powerful than juice (Plant Foods for Human Nutrition, Jan. 27, 2021).
You can learn more about tart cherries and other remedies for gout in our book “Quick & Handy Home Remedies.” It is available in the Books section of the Store at www.PeoplesPharmacy.com or in your local library.
Q. I watched a health show that suggested resveratrol for hemorrhoids and varicose veins. I started taking 250 mg a day with no effect.
A few months later, the experts on the show said if you have bad varicose veins or hemorrhoids, take 500 mg a day. After seven weeks at the higher dose, my hemorrhoids were gone!
A. We appreciate your testimonial. Although scientists have acknowledged the possibility that hemorrhoids might respond to resveratrol in combination with a high-fiber diet, we could not find clinical trials to support such an approach (Anatomical Record, November 2017).
In their column, Joe and Teresa Graedon answer letters from readers. Write to them in care of King Features, 628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803, or email them via their website:
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