Ginkgo Won’t Slow Decline of Aging Brain
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Rating
Ginkgo Won’t Slow Decline of Aging Brain
Our Review Summary
In a story that describes another study raising doubts about this product’s value, there was as much attention given to the remaining true believers as there was to the skeptical evidence.
Why This Matters
Many people (estimates of ~$100 million in annual US sales) buy this stuff. Evaluating the evidence about it is not only a health issue but a consumer protection issue.
Criteria
Not Satisfactory
There was no mention of how much ginkgo biloba products cost. Even an NBC story, with limited broadcast time, mentioned that Americans spend more than $100 million on a year on these products. A USA Today story said US sales were $99 million in 2008. But what does it cost the individual?
Satisfactory
The story stated that the researchers found no evidence that ginkgo delayed or prevented cognitive declines.
Satisfactory
The story stated that the study found that ginkgo was safe and no serious side effects were noted. But it could have noted that the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine states that "Side effects of ginkgo may include headache, nausea, gastrointestinal upset, diarrhea, dizziness, or allergic skin reactions. More severe allergic reactions have occasionally been reported."
Not Satisfactory
The story did an adequate job explaining the study. But it allowed the American Botanical Council exec to complain about limitations in the study without having the authors or anyone else specifically address those claims point by point. This introduced an imbalance that readers may have found very confusing.
Satisfactory
There was no exaggeration of the problem of cognitive decline.
Not Satisfactory
Yes, the story sought out different perspectives. But oddly, despite the mounting negative evidence, it afforded more space (265 words) to those defending ginkgo biloba than it did to those discussing the evidence raising huge questions about its value (249 words). He said/she said science journalism doesn’t serve anyone well.
Not Satisfactory
In a story based on a study that pokes holes in some peoples’ beliefs about a product to prevent cognitive decline, there could have been at least one line about other research into cognitive decline.
Satisfactory
It’s clear from the story that ginkgo biloba is used widely.
Not Applicable
The novelty of these products is not in question.
Not Satisfactory
Quotes from two of the sources – both defending ginkgo bliloba – were apparently taken from news releases. With the evidence stacking up against this product, why depend on canned responses to continue to breathe life into these product claims?
Total Score: 4 of 9 Satisfactory
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