Struggling with Nutrition: Overcoming Cravings and Health Challenges

Food issues

Hello, I am currently seeing a psychiatrist regularly, have moderate fatty liver, weigh about 67 kg, and am 161 cm tall.
I have a strong preference for bubble tea, consuming about two 1250 cc bottles daily.
I do not exercise, believing that my work-related physical labor is sufficient for weight loss.
Moreover, I am already quite fatigued from work, and I lack the energy for physical activity on weekends.

(1) About a year ago, I consulted with a family medicine doctor and a nutritionist with the goal of losing weight and quitting bubble tea, but I still failed! The consultation fees are extremely expensive! I feel that since I cannot give up bubble tea, I can only rely on weight loss medications to lose weight.
I also suspect that the psychiatric medications I take may be affecting my weight.
I have had fatty liver since I was around 20 years old, and it has never changed.
My bubble tea consumption has also remained constant.
If this continues, I know my body will undergo a series of chain reactions! Furthermore, I have a family history of diabetes, although I have not yet developed type 2 diabetes.
I have even bought okra plants to grow at home, as I have heard that consuming them can help regulate blood sugar levels?! I truly feel at a loss! Bubble tea is a joy in my life, especially since it is a tea-based beverage with a fragrant aroma that I cannot seem to give up!
(2) When I was younger, drinking soy milk did not cause any issues.
I don't understand why I now experience diarrhea after drinking it recently.
I would appreciate your advice on these issues.
Thank you very much.

Ci Ke Ai, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/08/28

Dr. Cai Xiuwen reply Nutrition

Hello! Hand-shaken beverages can indeed quench thirst and provide a refreshing and enjoyable feeling when you're thirsty.
However, try to supplement your daily intake with at least 1000cc of cold water.
If you are working 20 hours a day, it must be quite exhausting.
If you can take a one-hour break in between or reduce your work hours by one hour each day, you will likely feel some improvement.
The same applies to your fatty liver; even a slight reduction in burden on the liver can be beneficial.
Your concern about this indicates that you still value your health.
Engaging in more health-promoting behaviors, such as consistently drinking 1000cc of cold water daily, can be helpful.
Okra is a great food that can be consumed in moderation daily to provide adequate fiber and vitamins.
Soy milk contains phytonutrients; if it causes diarrhea, it is advisable to increase the amount gradually.
Some individuals may be prone to bloating, so diluting it slightly can help.
Pay attention to maintaining normal bowel movements, eat more fruits and vegetables, and adjust your gut microbiota.
This information is provided by Nantou Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2021/08/28

More Info

Hello! It sounds like you are facing a challenging situation with your health and nutrition, particularly with your love for sugary drinks and the impact of your mental health on your eating habits. Let’s break down your concerns and explore some strategies that could help you improve your nutrition and overall health.

Understanding Your Current Situation
You mentioned that you have moderate fatty liver disease, weigh about 67 kg, and stand at 161 cm tall. This puts your Body Mass Index (BMI) at approximately 25.8, which is classified as overweight. Additionally, your family history of diabetes adds another layer of concern, especially since you are already aware of the potential health risks associated with your current lifestyle.

Your fondness for hand-shaken drinks (手搖飲) is understandable, as they can be quite enjoyable. However, they often contain high levels of sugar and calories, which can contribute to weight gain and exacerbate fatty liver disease. The fact that you are not currently engaging in regular physical activity and rely on your work as a form of exercise may also hinder your weight loss efforts.

Strategies for Improvement
1. Gradual Reduction of Sugary Drinks: Instead of cutting out hand-shaken drinks entirely, consider gradually reducing your intake. You could start by replacing one of the bottles you consume daily with water or unsweetened tea. This way, you can still enjoy your favorite drinks but in moderation.

2. Healthier Alternatives: Explore healthier alternatives to your favorite drinks. For example, you could try making your own fruit-infused water or iced herbal teas that provide flavor without the added sugars. This can help satisfy your cravings without compromising your health.

3. Balanced Diet: Focus on incorporating more whole foods into your diet. Aim for a balanced plate that includes lean proteins (like chicken, fish, tofu), whole grains (like brown rice or quinoa), and plenty of vegetables. This can help you feel fuller and more satisfied, reducing the urge to reach for sugary snacks or drinks.

4. Mindful Eating: Practice mindful eating by paying attention to your hunger cues and eating slowly. This can help you recognize when you are truly hungry versus when you are eating out of habit or boredom.

5. Physical Activity: While you may feel too tired after work, consider incorporating small amounts of physical activity into your daily routine. Even short walks or stretching exercises can make a difference. You could also try engaging in activities that you enjoy, which may not feel like traditional exercise but still promote movement.

6. Consulting Professionals: While you mentioned that seeing a doctor can be expensive, consider looking for community health programs or clinics that offer nutrition counseling at a lower cost. Many universities also have programs where students provide services under supervision, which can be more affordable.

7. Addressing Digestive Issues: Regarding your recent experience with soy milk causing diarrhea, it’s possible that your body has developed a sensitivity or intolerance to it. You might want to try lactose-free options or consult with a healthcare provider to explore this further.

8. Mental Health Support: Since you are already seeing a psychiatrist, it may be beneficial to discuss your eating habits and cravings with them. They can help you address any underlying emotional issues that may be contributing to your eating patterns.

Conclusion
Improving your nutrition and managing your health challenges is a journey that requires patience and persistence. By making small, manageable changes to your diet and lifestyle, you can gradually work towards better health. Remember, it’s important to celebrate your progress, no matter how small, and to seek support when needed. You are not alone in this, and with the right strategies, you can overcome these challenges. Wishing you the best on your journey to better health!

Similar Q&A

Struggling with Weight Loss: Overcoming Challenges and Finding Solutions

Hello, (1) I was diagnosed with Mediterranean anemia during a health check-up, but my doctor said it is not severe and does not require treatment. My BMI is 27, which classifies me as overweight. I do not have a specific plan for weight loss and find it difficult to implement a...

Dr. Ke Taiyuan reply Internal Medicine
1. The fundamentals of weight loss are still dietary control and regular exercise. Dietary principles include low calories, high protein (meat, fish, beans, eggs, dairy), high fiber, low salt, low oil, and low sugar. Reduce calorie intake outside of main meals, and if you feel hu...

Overcoming Stress Eating: Tips for Healthy Habits During Exams

Hello, nutritionist. Recently, with the pressure of advancing my studies, I find myself unable to stop eating until I feel very uncomfortable in my stomach, and then I end up vomiting. I've gained 3 kilograms over the past six months, which has made me feel very insecure. I ...

Dr. Cai Xiuwen reply Nutrition
Hello! In addition to the need for nutrients in our diet, another important factor is satisfying psychological needs. Therefore, your current issue is that food fulfills your emotional needs more than your physiological needs. The concept of weight loss is simple: not eating will...

Effective Weight Loss Strategies for Overcoming Food Cravings

Hello, Nutritionist: Currently, my height is 155 cm and my weight is 75 kg, which classifies me as obese! Since childhood, I have always had a robust physique. I enjoy baked goods, especially bread, toast, and cookies, and I treat them as treasures, eating them without restraint....

Dr. Ke Qiuliang reply Nutrition
Hello, I apologize for the delay in responding due to urgent matters. Please forgive me. Based on your height, your ideal weight is estimated to be between 47.5 to 58 kilograms. 1. Generally, baked goods tend to be high in fats and sugars, which consequently provide a high ca...

Nutrition Counseling for Managing Diabetes and Cardiovascular Health

Diabetes, cerebrovascular occlusion, hypercholesterolemia, hypertension, hyperlipidemia.

Dr. Tang Weili reply Nutrition
Your condition can be managed through diet or medication, and the undesirable dietary factors include 1. high calories 2. high fat 3. alcohol 4. high salt 5. low potassium 6. low calcium 7. low magnesium. Additionally, exercise and maintaining an ideal weight can help prevent and...