From: wsonnen@alnitak.usc.edu (Wayne Sonnen)
Newsgroups: sci.med.nutrition
Subject: Re: Metabolic typing?
Date: 12 Nov 1992 12:19:17 -0800
Organization: University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA
Distribution: world
NNTP-Posting-Host: alnitak.usc.edu

In article <11NOV199219112686@reg.triumf.ca> fwj@reg.triumf.ca (JONES,FRED_W.) writes:
>Has anyone dealt with a company called Metabolic Technology,
>based in Grand Prairie, Texas?  They provide a "metabolic typing"
>service: i.e., you fill in a computer-readable questionnaire, forward
>it to them, and they work up a profile on your metabolism, together
>with recommendations for the proportions of protein, fat, carbohydrates,
>etc. that should be in your diet for good health and to maintain an
>optimum weight.
>
>I presume that the metabolic profile is derived
>from statistical correlations in medical histories or studies that have
>been compiled by the company.
>
>I'd appreciate any informed opinions as to whether there is anything
>to this type of analysis or whether it's just another form of snake oil.
>

One would have to know more about what questions are asked.
The idea sounds great, but unfortunately unless extensive (and VERY
expensive) clinical lab test are done, under strictly controlled
environmental conditions, its not possible to determine ones metabolic
needs.
For example, just consider one factor---protein. A no questionare, in
my opinion, could determine ones protein requirement. The reasons are several.
First, it is not correct to say one needs this or that much protein, but
rather there are individual differences in amino acid requirements. Without
strict clinical lab tests, how can one determine ones individual need for
certain amino acids?
Similar questions could be asked with respect to absorption of certain
vitamins. 
It sounds to me as if the simple formulate a "balanced diet" based on
a number of foods and make recommendations as to what food combinations
(based on ones tastes preferences) should be eaten. To me this is not
a scientific "metabolically" designed program.

Did they ask for urine and blood samples? Do they tell you how much you
should weigh based on your age and height? Surely you can't tell me
that an individual who is for example 6' tall and weighs 210 lbs with
a percentage of body fat of less than 7-8% and is in excellent cardio-
vascular and muscular shape is "over weight" beacuse this is what some
life insurance table says. What i'm saying is that if they don't determine
one's body fat, how can they tell you how much you should weigh?

If you haven't wasted your money on this "snake oil" don't.
You will have a much better "metabolic" profile if you ask
your doctor for the blood and urine and what else there amy be to
determine deficiencies. 

I have seen a number of these computerized diet plans. I haven't
heard of any medical (in the US or outside) raving of their health
benefits. I guess this says it all doesn't it? 

The way i see it, today we have to become more knowledgeable and responsible
for our own health. There's lots and lots of information out there, and
it can be confussing. This confussion makes it easier for many people
to take advantage of other people. To avoid this situation requires
one to do some research to determine the validity of any claims made
with regards to health foods, drugs, etc.

BUYER BEWARE!

Wayne Sonnen
Newsgroups: sci.med.nutrition