The People's Pharmacy: Alternatives to triclosan

By: JOE GRAEDON AND TERESA GRAEDON | Special correspondents Published: September 02, 2012 Updated: September 02, 2012 - 12:00 AM

Q: I don't want to use soap with triclosan because I read that it might affect muscles. As an athlete, I don't want to weaken my performance. I also don't like alcohol-containing hand sanitizers. Are there any alternatives?

A: Triclosan is an antibacterial chemical found in soaps, deodorants, mouthwash and toothpaste. Research in mice and fish suggests that triclosan impairs muscle function (Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences online, Aug. 13, 2012).

Using old-fashioned soap and water is a great way to clean hands. If you would like a sanitizer you can carry with you, consider CleanWell products. They use thyme derivatives as the active ingredient and contain no alcohol.

Q: My son is a vegetarian. He relies on beans and dairy for his protein. He eats lots of vegetables, especially broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage and carrots.

I am convinced that his diet is responsible for "our" problem: gas! He is so flatulent, we can hardly stand it. The smell is overwhelming. Is there anything he can take to reduce the gas and the odor?

A: The healthy vegetables your son eats often produce unpleasant smells. If he is lactose-intolerant, dairy products also may contribute.

The best way to deodorize gas is with bismuth. Products containing this compound include Devrom (bismuth subgallate) and Maalox Total Relief or Pepto-Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate). The stool will turn black, but this is not dangerous.

There are reports, however, that regular use (or overuse) of bismuth has been linked to reversible neurological symptoms, such as tremor, muscle twitches, confusion and memory problems. As a result, your son might want to reserve bismuth for use before social occasions.

Q: I listened to your public-radio program on the dangers of aluminum in common products. Something was said about a way to counteract aluminum in the body, but I missed what product is used.

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The People's Pharmacy: Alternatives to triclosan