Understanding Nutritional Deficiencies: Addressing Muscle Cramps and Fatigue
Deficiency I have recently been experiencing sharp pain in my chest and general body aches, particularly in my shoulders and lower back, which leaves me feeling fatigued all day. From February 10 to February 26, I recorded that my calves cramp two to three times a night (about th...
Dr. Cai Xiuwen Reply:
Hello, Xiuyu! There are many causes of soreness and fatigue, such as intense exercise and work-related exhaustion. Cramps may also result from overexertion during physical activity. I recommend visiting a family medicine or internal medicine clinic to check for any underlying med...[Read More] Understanding Nutritional Deficiencies: Addressing Muscle Cramps and Fatigue
Managing Lower Limb Edema in Terminal Cancer Patients: Dietary Tips and Albumin Use
Lower extremity edema Hello, nutritionist: My father is in the terminal stage of gallbladder cancer and currently has edema below the ankles. He is taking diuretics, but they are not effective. Can he receive albumin injections? Additionally, what dietary changes can help improve...
Dr. Cai Xiuwen Reply:
Hello! If your father's edema is solely due to poor nutritional status and low serum albumin, without any heart or kidney issues, administering albumin could be a consideration for his leg swelling. However, if the primary cause is long-term nutritional deficiency, albumin m...[Read More] Managing Lower Limb Edema in Terminal Cancer Patients: Dietary Tips and Albumin Use
Dietary Guidelines for Managing Multiple Health Conditions: A Comprehensive Guide
How to manage dietary needs for multiple health conditions? Hello Dr. Tsai, I would like to ask you about my father's health. He has diabetes, cirrhosis, lower extremity edema, ascites, as well as gastric ulcers and gallstones. I am unsure what kind of diet would be suitab...
Dr. Cai Xiuwen Reply:
Hello, Xiao Wen! Regarding your father's diet, it is important to monitor his blood ammonia levels, as elevated blood ammonia can lead to coma, a condition commonly seen in patients with advanced liver cirrhosis. If his blood ammonia levels are normal, protein intake can be ...[Read More] Dietary Guidelines for Managing Multiple Health Conditions: A Comprehensive Guide
Understanding the Differences Between Roasted and Burnt Black Sesame: Health Implications
Black sesame seeds I usually buy black sesame powder in jars or packages, and when I open them, they have a pleasant aroma (not a burnt smell). It is also labeled as roasted. Today, I bought a package of black sesame powder that was freshly ground for me, and the staff said it wa...
Dr. Shi Guimei Reply:
Hello! Black sesame contains a small amount of saturated fatty acids, as well as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids, with the highest proportion being polyunsaturated fatty acids. Polyunsaturated fatty acids are susceptible to rancidity due to high temperatures, humi...[Read More] Understanding the Differences Between Roasted and Burnt Black Sesame: Health Implications
Can Excess Dietary Fiber Lead to Nutrient Deficiencies?
Dietary fiber Hello, I heard that consuming too much fiber can hinder the absorption of other nutrients. Could this lead to malnutrition? Additionally, does excessive fiber intake impede the absorption of fats and carbohydrates, potentially resulting in insufficient caloric intak...
Dr. Shi Guimei Reply:
Hello! Fiber plays an important role in gastrointestinal motility and the prevention of chronic diseases. The impact of fiber on the absorption of other nutrients is minimal, as it acts on different parts of the digestive tract. Currently, the average fiber intake among the popul...[Read More] Can Excess Dietary Fiber Lead to Nutrient Deficiencies?
Is Your Diet for Diabetes and Kidney Health Missing Key Nutrients?
What nutrients need to be supplemented with this diet? Hello, my mother-in-law has been diabetic for over 10 years. Recently, she had to undergo amputation and is unable to move freely, which has forced her into a passive dietary control. Her daily diet consists mainly of a mix o...
Dr. Cai Xiuwen Reply:
Hello, Ms. Chen! I understand the challenges of caring for a diabetes patient, and I can imagine that you have put in a lot of effort and are under considerable stress. For diabetes patients with poor kidney function, dietary restrictions can be particularly difficult, but the mo...[Read More] Is Your Diet for Diabetes and Kidney Health Missing Key Nutrients?
Tips to Enhance Digestive Absorption for Healthy Weight Gain
How to help the gastrointestinal tract absorb nutrients? Hello, doctor. I have a body type that struggles to gain weight, but I really want to put on some pounds. Are there any methods to help improve nutrient absorption in my digestive system? For example, are there any exercise...
Dr. Shi Guimei Reply:
Hello! Your ideal weight range is between 54 to 66 kilograms, and your current weight of 50 kilograms is indeed underweight, so you need to gain weight. Exercising about an hour before meals can help increase your appetite, but avoid overly intense workouts to prevent fatigue tha...[Read More] Tips to Enhance Digestive Absorption for Healthy Weight Gain
Effects of Milk and Lemon Juice on Skin and Health: What to Know
Milk + Lemon Juice What happens to the body when drinking milk with lemon juice? Are there any issues or health benefits related to the body or facial acne? Thank you.
Dr. Shi Guimei Reply:
Hello! Milk is rich in calcium, and calcium absorption can be enhanced in an acidic environment. Therefore, gastric acid is beneficial for calcium absorption, and lemon juice can also provide an acidic environment, which is advantageous for the absorption of calcium in milk. For ...[Read More] Effects of Milk and Lemon Juice on Skin and Health: What to Know
Understanding the Impact of Low Weight on Menstrual Health and Nutrition
The concerns of being underweight? Hello, I am currently 163 cm tall and weigh around 45 kg. Over the past six months, I have lost about 6 kg, and I have not had my period for the past five months. I know my BMI is considered underweight, but I have not engaged in any extreme die...
Dr. Cai Xiuwen Reply:
Hello! Your current weight is classified as underweight, with a BMI of 16.9. It is important to pay attention to your dietary habits; ensure that your intake of staple foods is sufficient, with carbohydrates ranging from 160 to 200 grams. Each meal should include at least two ser...[Read More] Understanding the Impact of Low Weight on Menstrual Health and Nutrition
Can Lactose Intolerance Be Treated or Managed Effectively?
Is lactose intolerance curable? Hello, doctor. I think I might have what is known as "lactose intolerance" because I easily get diarrhea after drinking milk, especially when paired with food! Although it's not 100%, it happens more than 90% of the time. I also expe...
Dr. Xie Peiru Reply:
Lactose intolerance, also known as lactose malabsorption or lactose digestion deficiency, refers to the condition in which the body does not produce enough lactase, the enzyme responsible for breaking down lactose. The main symptoms include diarrhea and bloating after consuming l...[Read More] Can Lactose Intolerance Be Treated or Managed Effectively?
Nutritional Care for Family Members After Heart Valve Surgery
Nutritional Care for Bariatric Surgery How to care for the nutrition of family members who have undergone heart valve repair or bypass surgery.
Dr. Huang Shuli Reply:
Hello! During the acute phase of care in the intensive care unit after heart surgery, it is crucial to closely monitor vital signs and postoperative cardiac function. At this stage, the patient can begin to eat, but attention should be paid to fluid and sodium intake. Once the pa...[Read More] Nutritional Care for Family Members After Heart Valve Surgery
Struggling to Gain Weight: Understanding Nutritional Challenges
The issue of being unable to gain weight since childhood? However, my height is 173 cm and my weight is between 55 to 60 kg. My current lifestyle is that I wake up at 7 AM and go to bed around 11 PM, 12 AM, 1 AM, or 2 AM due to work reasons. For lunch, I usually eat a bento box a...
Dr. Cai Xiuwen Reply:
Hello! Based on your current height, your ideal weight is approximately 66 kilograms. If you need to gain weight, it's important to ensure that you are consuming enough calories. Additionally, pay attention to your gastrointestinal digestion and absorption. It is recommended...[Read More] Struggling to Gain Weight: Understanding Nutritional Challenges
How to Improve Your Health: Tips for Nutritional Wellness
Could you please provide the content you would like me to translate? Hello, Dr. Shi: I feel that my constitution is not very good, as I often get sick (colds). I am short and thin (malnourished), with a height of less than 165 cm and a weight of less than 55 kg. I hardly look lik...
Dr. Shi Guimei Reply:
Dear Xiao Wei, Hello! If an adult's height is 165 cm, their ideal weight range is between 54 to 66 kg. The best approach to health is to maintain a balanced diet with a variety of foods. Regarding the issues you mentioned, such as gout, it is advisable to avoid alcohol and ...[Read More] How to Improve Your Health: Tips for Nutritional Wellness
Is Long Boiling of Bone Broth Harmful to Your Health?
Is it not advisable to simmer bone broth for too long? I heard that if bone broth is simmered until the soup turns grayish-white, it can be harmful to the body. Is this true? If so, does this mean that street food like rice noodle soup is also not good for us?
Dr. Shi Guimei Reply:
Dear Xiao Wei, Hello! If the broth from boiling large bones turns grayish-white, it may be due to the denaturation of proteins when exposed to heat, which is harmless to health. However, if the bones themselves are contaminated with heavy metals (commonly lead), prolonged boilin...[Read More] Is Long Boiling of Bone Broth Harmful to Your Health?
Effective Weight Loss Strategies for Individuals 168cm and 117kg
How to lose weight? 168 cm, 117 kg
Dr. Shi Guimei Reply:
Hello! You can visit the "Food Information Network" of the Ministry of Health and Welfare, and click on: Nutrition and Health → Balanced Nutrition → Obesity and Weight Control (http://sp1.cto.doh.gov.tw/doctor/Hosp_manage/index.php). There is a menu at the top where you...[Read More] Effective Weight Loss Strategies for Individuals 168cm and 117kg
Do Black and Green Tea Boost Immunity and Reduce Cancer Risk?
Black tea and green tea? Hello Doctor, I read online that black tea and green tea have immune-boosting effects. Green tea can reduce the incidence of cancer, while black tea can help with sore throats, among other benefits. Are these claims supported by medical evidence? Thank yo...
Dr. Shi Guimei Reply:
Hello! Green tea contains polyphenols, which are believed to be associated with cancer prevention; however, there is currently insufficient evidence to conclusively demonstrate a reduction in cancer incidence. Recent studies in the United States have found that black tea contains...[Read More] Do Black and Green Tea Boost Immunity and Reduce Cancer Risk?
Can Lemon Juice and Milk Help Lower Uric Acid Levels?
Improvement of uric acid levels? Hello Dr. Tsai! I would like to ask you a few questions regarding uric acid: 1. Can long-term consumption of lemon juice help improve uric acid levels? 2. Can regularly drinking milk help improve uric acid levels? Thank you for your explanation on...
Dr. Cai Xiuwen Reply:
Hello! 1. The causes of high uric acid levels are due to either abnormal excretion by the body or excessive production within the body. Elevated uric acid can lead to urinary stones or kidney damage. 2. Lemon juice contains citric acid, which can improve blood pH levels and r...[Read More] Can Lemon Juice and Milk Help Lower Uric Acid Levels?
Managing Chronic Inflammation: Dietary Changes and Solutions
Chronic inflammation I have been experiencing reactions to an increasing variety of foods, such as small amounts of dairy, rice, and lotus seeds. After consuming these foods, my skin becomes inflamed on the same day, and I have persistent skin issues that have been more uncomfort...
Dr. Tang Weili Reply:
Dear i: Skin allergies and inflammation can be quite distressing. Do you regularly see a dermatologist? Please keep a food diary and bring it to your dermatology appointment to provide the doctor with additional information to assess your condition. Wishing you a speedy recovery!...[Read More] Managing Chronic Inflammation: Dietary Changes and Solutions
Post-Surgery Recovery Tips for Brain Tumor Patients: Nutrition Matters
Post-operative care after brain tumor surgery? Hello, Doctor: My friend's mother recently had brain surgery and is about to be discharged! I would like to ask the physician how to care for her after discharge. I heard that eating bass fish can help wounds heal faster! Is thi...
Dr. Huang Shuli Reply:
Hello, Chun. After surgery, the diet should be based on a balanced intake of six food groups: grains and tubers, vegetables, fruits, dairy, meat, fish, eggs, and legumes, as well as fats. It is important to consume all six categories without neglecting any. You may slightly incre...[Read More] Post-Surgery Recovery Tips for Brain Tumor Patients: Nutrition Matters
Essential Foods for Managing Allergies and Skin Conditions
Regarding food? I have been experiencing allergies to an increasing number of foods and have had skin allergies for many years, along with noticeable lymphadenopathy. What types of foods should I eat? Thank you.
Dr. Xie Peiru Reply:
Hello: There are many reasons for allergies, such as individual constitution, environment, stress, and food, among others. It is recommended to undergo allergy testing to clarify the specific allergens, which can help narrow down the prevention measures. Common food allergens inc...[Read More] Essential Foods for Managing Allergies and Skin Conditions