In his latest book Dr. Joe Schwarcz, director of McGill University's Office for Science and Society, tackles the science behind our daily lives.

As a long-time magician, Schwarcz knows a lot about mystification and Brain Fuel: 199 Mind-expanding Inquiries into the Science of Everyday Life attempts to demystify and enlighten its readers.

Do lima beans cure cancer? Might some fish play a role in diabetes? Can chewing gum boost your bust? And should you worry about bisphenol A?

Dr. Joe Schwarcz

Dr. Joe Schwarcz took you questions on the wacky and not-so-wacky science of things.

Read his answers after the jump.

How is your food inspected and labeled? How do nutritional tables work and can you trust the "Made in Canada" symbol on your food?

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency takes your questions on the goods lining the grocery shelves.

CBCNews.ca wants your questions for our podcast called "Your Interview."

How to participate

Remember, when sending in your question:

• A short question is better than a long one.
• One question is better than many.
• If a question needs some context, keep it brief.
• Preference will be given to questions from those who give a full name and location.
• Questions may be edited for length and clarity.

Canadian and U.S. stocks fell sharply at the opening of trading Monday as the bankruptcy filing by U.S. investment bank Lehman Brothers Holdings Inc. and cascading fears about the stability of other major financial institutions rattled global markets. The central banks of the major industrialized economies also moved quickly Monday to shore up an ailing global financial system in the wake of the seismic restructuring among Wall Street banks and brokers houses that took place the same day.

How will these global economic factors affect the Canadian economy? What does it mean for your investments? How worried should Canadians be?

Jim Carroll

On Wednesday, September 17, economic trend expert Jim Carroll took your questions.

Read his answers after the jump.