You wrote:
I've been practicing Internal Medicine since becoming Board Certified in 1986. In all that time I've never once signed a death certificate "Due to Coffee". In fact, I've never admitted a patient to the hospital with an admitting diagnosis of "Coffee-related-illness". But, as a scientist committed to the principles of the scientific method I will always keep an open mind when the statistically proven and peer-reviewed studies teach me otherwise. Until then, as always, I'll go with science over testimonials. My patient's lives are on the line...
My reply:
I respectfully say that your statements make no sense at all. I've seen thousands of medical diagnois over the years and several "cause of death" statements, and just because a death certificate doesn't say "due to coffee" does not mean that coffee hasn't contributed to someones poor health. And just because a doctor may not admit a patient for "coffee-related-illness" does not mean that excess caffeine hasn't contributed to the patients health problems. I've never seen an admitting diagnosis of "stress due to a lousy boss" ... but can assure you that stress plays a BIG role in the development of many diseases. Have also never seen death due to "lack of orange consumption" ... but, death due to "scurvy" might be written (although this is rare, these days ... but, my point is the same).
And don't get me started on "peer reviewed" medical "science" ... there is so much MONEY in that industry and so many people with their hands in each others pockets that almost ANY research result can be purchased, for the right price. Even the New England Journal of Medicine has admitted numerous conflicts of interest.
I've worked in conventional medicine for over 20 years and it is, regrettably, a system I have little respect for (except emergency trauma medicine). That doesn't mean I don't respect several physicians ... most are honorable people who attempt to do the right thing ... BUT, the system of rewards for drug prescriptions and/ or surgery, is seriously flawed.
I wish you well, C.C.
Edited by calmcookie, 13 February 2006 - 09:17 AM.