Madam, - Readers considering adopting the advice of Jane Plant as reported in your edition of November 10th by Katie Donovan ("Is the cow the culprit?") might bear in mind my own experience.
I gave up all dairy products and meat, and went on an alkaline diet in an attempt to cure irritable bowel syndrome. IBS improved - it did not go away - but I developed severe osteoporosis. I am now increasingly stooped and have a deteriorating hip scoliosis.
Especially in the matter of dieting, there are no free lunches. - Yours, etc.,
BRENDAN BRADSHAW, SM, Marist Fathers, Mount St Mary's, Dublin 14.