35,0000 copies of the revised and updated revision of SMART WOMEN STRONG BONES, (with an added introduction by former Brady Bunch mom/Today Show correspondent, Florence Henderson) has hit the market. When revising the book, co-author Dr. Beverly Whipple and I were interested in finding out if research revealed anything new regarding the relationship between coffee and decreased bone density.

As it turns out, caffeine still hasn't been shown to cause a decrease in bone density. (Another study revealed caffeine on its own also doesn't cause heart attacks.) However, I continue to view its use with caution because it is the world's most popular drug and it IS addicting. Want to know if you are "hooked?" Try going without the boost of energy and alertness you get from your morning jolt of java or diet Coke. Or, better yet, attempt to go cold turkey. Withdrawal produces a wicked headache, drowsiness or nausea. Use a double dose of Excedrin or Anacin for headache relief and you can count on another headache tomorrow because these headache meds themselves contain caffeine.

Caffeine is a cardiac stimulant and a mild diuretic. College students and drivers take advantage of its action that mimics amphetamines, cocaine and heroin use to stimulate the brain and stay awake. Too much (for you) and you will experience insomnia, nervousness, anxiety, upset stomach, poor fine-muscle coordination, increased blood pressure and disturbances in heart rhythm. Caffeine may also cause some symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, including fatigue, anxiety, and tender, painful breasts. The upside is that caffeine stimulates mental alertness, is useful in treating certain types of migraine headaches and is used to treat hyperactivity in some children.

Should you quit? A little caffeine, such as 2 six-ounce cups of coffee or 20 ounces of caffeinated soft drink a day, is considered "safe" for most adults. But, pregnant women should not use caffeine because there is a chance it may cause birth defects.

If you decide to cut back on caffeine consumption (or stop using it entirely), this means giving up caffeinated coffee or tea AND ALSO chocolate and the over the counter and prescription drugs that contain caffeine. (See http:rondagates.com Smart Eating button for a list of caffeine containing products.)

Having set the stage for some introspection, Since Valentine's Day, and all the great chocolate that appears with it, is on the horizon, you might want to wait another ten days to curb your addiction. But if weight loss is your goal, soothe your palate with a high end chocolate treat you can savor and remember as a special experience.

For fun, consider the party I'm hosting this week. I've invited friends and friends of friends to join me for a viewing of the movie, Chocolate. If you come you must bring your favorite chocolate treat to share at a chocolate pot luck after the movie. Hope to see you there.