Metabolism: Addressing Nutritional Concerns and Symptoms - Nutrition

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Metabolism


Thank you for your response amidst your busy schedule.
Actually, I have already been to the hospital's metabolism department for an examination, and my kidney function, urine protein, and thyroid function are all normal.
The doctor only prescribed me some diuretics and did not investigate further.
Could it be due to my prolonged sitting every day? Recently, I've been experiencing a tingling sensation in my lower body, but I do stand for several hours each day, and the situation hasn't improved.
I would like to ask if Dr.
Huang's reference to "Job's tears rice" means cooking regular Job's tears together with rice?

Xin Shenghuo, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/09/20

Dr. Huang Ruipei reply Nutrition


Happy Mid-Autumn Festival! I apologize for the delay in responding to your question due to a business trip and a few consecutive holidays.
Congratulations! Since it is not a thyroid function issue, you might consider starting with exercise.
Sitting or standing does not count as exercise.
It is recommended to engage in regular physical activity at least three times a week, with each session lasting at least 30 minutes (such as brisk walking or swimming), aiming to elevate your heart rate to over 130 beats per minute to enhance your metabolic rate.
After exercising, it is advisable to drink warm water or hot tea, and to avoid sugary beverages or ice products.

For barley rice, you can cook the barley separately, but cooking it into dry rice may result in a somewhat hard texture that is difficult to chew.
If you are concerned about it being too hard, you can cook the barley together with rice in a ratio of approximately 1:1, but remember to soak the barley beforehand and add extra water during cooking to prevent it from being too hard.
However, I would like to remind you: if you are pregnant, you should avoid consuming barley.

Wishing you peace and health,
RD Huang Rupei

Reply Date: 2007/09/20

More Info


Thank you for your inquiry regarding metabolism, nutritional concerns, and the symptoms you are experiencing. It’s great to hear that you have already consulted with a healthcare professional regarding your metabolic health, and it’s important to continue seeking answers to your concerns, especially since you mentioned experiencing symptoms like numbness in your lower body and the effects of prolonged sitting.

To address your question about "薏仁飯" (Job's tears rice), it indeed refers to cooking Job's tears (a type of grain) together with rice. This combination not only enhances the nutritional profile of your meal but also may provide additional health benefits. Job's tears are known for their diuretic properties and are often used in traditional medicine to help with various conditions, including inflammation and digestive issues. When combined with rice, it can create a wholesome dish that is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

Regarding your symptoms of numbness in the lower body, it’s crucial to consider several factors. Prolonged sitting can lead to poor circulation and nerve compression, which might explain the numbness you are experiencing. It’s advisable to incorporate regular movement into your daily routine, such as standing up, stretching, or walking around every hour to promote blood flow and alleviate pressure on nerves. Additionally, exercises that strengthen your core and lower body can help improve your posture and reduce the risk of nerve compression.

From a nutritional standpoint, ensuring you have a balanced diet that supports your metabolic health is essential. Here are some dietary recommendations that may help:
1. Increase Fiber Intake: Consuming foods high in fiber, such as whole grains (like Job's tears), fruits, vegetables, and legumes, can help regulate digestion and improve overall gut health. Fiber also plays a role in maintaining a healthy weight and can aid in metabolic processes.

2. Stay Hydrated: Adequate hydration is crucial for metabolic functions and can help prevent issues related to fluid retention, which may be exacerbated by diuretics. Aim to drink plenty of water throughout the day.

3. Protein-Rich Foods: Incorporate lean proteins into your meals, such as chicken, fish, beans, and legumes. Protein can help build muscle mass, which is important for maintaining a healthy metabolism.

4. Healthy Fats: Include sources of healthy fats, such as avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil. These fats are essential for hormone production and overall cellular health.

5. Regular Meals: Eating regular, balanced meals can help maintain stable blood sugar levels and support metabolic health. Avoid skipping meals, as this can lead to overeating later and disrupt metabolic processes.

6. Limit Processed Foods: Try to minimize the intake of processed foods high in sugar and unhealthy fats, as these can negatively impact your metabolism and overall health.

If your symptoms persist or worsen, it may be beneficial to seek a second opinion or consult with a specialist, such as a neurologist or a dietitian, who can provide personalized advice based on a comprehensive assessment of your health.

In summary, addressing your nutritional concerns and symptoms involves a multifaceted approach that includes dietary adjustments, regular physical activity, and possibly further medical evaluation. By focusing on a balanced diet and incorporating movement into your daily routine, you can support your metabolic health and overall well-being. If you have any further questions or need more specific guidance, please feel free to ask.

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