Vitamin B helps reduce trips to the bathroom

Q. I am a 76-year-old male. I used to get up two or three times a night to urinate. After reading one of your columns in which you passed on a reader's success with vitamin B-6, I purchased a bottle. It works!

After three weeks of taking 200 milligrams per day, I was no longer getting up. If I consume a large amount of liquid late in the evening, I get up only once. It comes with the added benefit of no headache in the morning because of a lack of sleep.

Thank you so much for passing on this information. It has truly made a great difference in my life.

A. I have had no experience with this alternative therapy, but it appears to be harmless. I am glad you have had positive results. However, as with every alternative remedy, I expect many patients will write me with negative comments. No therapy works for everyone, but if it works for you, stick with it.

Nighttime urination is a common problem, especially as we age. It can have many causes, from simply drinking too much liquid at night to a weakened bladder to bladder infection or cancer. It is important to have thorough testing for persistent, frequent urination to rule out a serious cause. Home remedies are acceptable only for the treatment of benign causes.

Q. You asked for feedback on trying Lactagen for lactose intolerance.

I developed severe lactose intolerance about six years ago after having radiation therapy. It seemed to be getting worse every month. I couldn't enjoy outings with my family and friends and went out only when I had to. It was very hard on me because I am otherwise healthy.

I tried the product after reading about it in your column. I was skeptical to say the least because nothing had worked for me. I followed the package directions, and, lo and behold, it worked! I am so thankful that you wrote that column and brought this amazing product to the attention of thousands of people.

I understand that I still have to be a bit cautious, but as long as I don't overindulge in dairy products, I can now lead a normal life. Lactagen has made a great difference.

A. I am glad you have had such a positive result. I am skeptical about any alternative remedy until I have heard of many positive results from readers. Yours is one of only a handful I have received. I will remain skeptical until more readers have written to me, but I hope it continues on the positive track it appears to be on. Thanks for writing.

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