Glad to see others are joining in the fight to protect the public from fraudulent claims by Coca-Cola that its newest and worthless green-tea-based energy drink, Enviga, can help anyone lose weight.

Of course, the company defends and deflects claims on their Web site by pointing out they never intended to position Enviga as a "weight-loss product." So, why emphasize the claim the product "invigorates your metabolism to gently burn calories?" No doubt, to create a buzz around the product leading to curiosity and an early sales spike, not unlike the hype surrounding the dangerous and ridiculous energy drink Cocaine.

Not to mention that, even if their claims are true, the privilege of burning up to 100 calories a day would mean drinking three cans a day. That means it could cost as much as $315 to lose one pound. And, that's not taking into consideration the health-harming amount of caffeine -- 100 milligrams -- contained in each can of Enviga.

Basically, this is nothing more than an attempt to steal from the wonderful reputation of green tea -- specifically Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) -- a proven weapon for fighting cancer and the AIDS virus. Remember, green tea alone is a far better alternative, but usually not when it comes in a can or bottle.

If you're looking for health benefits, stick to the real thing and lose weight simply and safely by optimizing your diet and getting the right amount of exercise.

On Vital Votes, biochemist Russ Bianchi from Soquel, California points out that Coca-Cola is not the only company trying to make money off of EGCG:

"Beware, now Pepsico, on the Super Bowl broadcast, 2/4/07, had their own version of a Snapple Branded Green Tea beverage out, pushing HARD on the 'most ECGC' of any beverage.

"I will remind you all, Snapple also claims to 'have the best stuff on Earth' in their brand ... If the 'best stuff' includes harmful high intensity sweeteners, High Fructose Corn Syrup, that is NOT fruit sugar, or sugars, nor metabolized as such, and is a leading ingredient linked to cardio vascular disease, diabetes, hypoglycemia, some forms of cancer, and obesity, then 'best' has a whole knew meaning I was never taught."