Green Tea claims said to be incorrect

Editor,

An article in the Leader (June 29, 2006) stated that a certain tea prevents cancer. A search of Quackwatch.com produced contrary statements.

The Consumer Health Digest (March 5, 2001) reported a large study of 26,000 people over a nine-year period.

The results: Drinking green tea was NOT found to prevent cancer.

If Linda Rouse has convincing evidence that her "Innerlight Supergreen Tea" does indeed prevent cancer, it would be helpful if she would produce such evidence. Remember, anecdotal reports are not sufficient as proof.

In another report (Oct. 12, 2004) the FDA ordered Cellular Wellness Foundation to cease claiming that their tea was effective against cancer. Most recently (May 16, 2006) the FDA also rejected claims that green tea reduces the risk of heart disease. Obviously, if there is not evidence, then claims should not be made.

Various other herbal teas have been reported to: (1) have no positive effects; (2) be sales scams, or (3) in some cases, cause death.

As Carl Sagan stated, "Extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence." Let the buyer beware.

Gene Johnson

Polson