Is Chocolate Hard to Digest? Understanding Its Effects on Digestion
Is chocolate hard to digest? Every time I eat chocolate, my stool tends to be dark the next day. If I consume chocolate spread or cream, it can even cause discomfort during bowel movements. Is it because chocolate is hard to digest?
Dr. Cai Xiuwen reply Nutrition
Hello! Commercial chocolates generally have a high fat content and do not contain fiber (unless nuts are added). If consumed in small amounts, it should not pose a significant issue, unless consumed in excess at one time. It is recommended to consume it in moderation or to increa...[Read More] Is Chocolate Hard to Digest? Understanding Its Effects on Digestion
Can You Build Muscle Without Gaining Weight? Insights on Strength Training
Regarding muscle training? Is it possible to build muscle without gaining weight? I've been lifting dumbbells daily for arm strength over the past few weeks, but my weight hasn't increased. Can I still gain muscle this way? Thank you.
Dr. Cai Xiuwen reply Nutrition
Hello! The body's weight includes skeletal muscle, blood, organs, and more. Changes in body weight are usually most affected by water content. Therefore, when the body is dehydrated or sweating excessively, weight can drop several kilograms quickly. Additionally, when starti...[Read More] Can You Build Muscle Without Gaining Weight? Insights on Strength Training
Understanding Increased Appetite in Teenagers: Causes and Solutions
Eating, eating, eating, and can't stop? Hello Doctor: I have a question to ask you. My sister is in her first year of high school. She is not overweight; she has a slim physique. However, since starting high school, her appetite has increased significantly. Even after she fe...
Dr. Cai Xiuwen reply Nutrition
Hello! During the first year of high school, girls are still in a rapid growth phase, and their bodies may require more calories, which can lead to increased hunger. It's important to monitor for signs such as excessive eating and drinking, increased thirst, and sudden weigh...[Read More] Understanding Increased Appetite in Teenagers: Causes and Solutions
Nutrition Tips for Stroke Recovery: Supplements and Diet for Seniors
Diet for Stroke Management Hello, my father is 75 years old and suffered a brainstem stroke last September. He currently requires tube feeding and is on a ventilator. What nutritional supplements or traditional Chinese medicine can be provided for him? I heard that lecithin can a...
Dr. Cai Xiuwen reply Nutrition
Hello~ Lecithin is a phospholipid that was named because it was first isolated from egg yolk. It is also found in abundance in soybeans. Lecithin can aid in the metabolism of blood lipids and can be synthesized into acetylcholine in the human body, which is related to neurotransm...[Read More] Nutrition Tips for Stroke Recovery: Supplements and Diet for Seniors
Is Seaweed Easy to Digest? Understanding Fiber and Digestive Issues
Is seaweed easy to digest? Is the fiber content in seaweed abundant? Why do I often experience constipation after eating too much seaweed? I've also noticed a lot of undigested seaweed remnants in my stool!
Dr. Cai Xiuwen reply Nutrition
Hello, seaweed does indeed have a high fiber content. Fiber is not absorbed by the human body, but it can stimulate intestinal peristalsis and has water-absorbing properties in the intestines. Therefore, it is normal to see undigested seaweed in your stool. However, seaweed is li...[Read More] Is Seaweed Easy to Digest? Understanding Fiber and Digestive Issues
Is Aloe Vera Juice Beneficial for Digestive Health?
Aloe vera juice can be beneficial for individuals with gastrointestinal issues? I found online that aloe vera juice is very helpful for people with gastrointestinal issues. Is this true? Should I buy aloe vera to prepare it myself, or are there ready-made options available on the...
Dr. Cai Xiuwen reply Nutrition
Hello! Animal studies have shown that aloe vera has the ability to inhibit ulcers and promote cell recovery. For individuals with gastrointestinal issues, there are various factors affecting gastrointestinal function. It is advisable to consult a gastroenterologist for a proper d...[Read More] Is Aloe Vera Juice Beneficial for Digestive Health?
Top Tryptophan-Rich Vegetables for a Healthy Diet
Regarding tryptophan-rich foods? Which vegetables contain the highest levels of tryptophan? I eat vegetarian hot pot. Thank you for your response.
Dr. Cai Xiuwen reply Nutrition
Hello~ Tryptophan is an amino acid primarily found in protein-rich foods. Vegetarians may consider choosing legumes such as soybeans, or dairy products like milk and cheese. Additionally, nuts such as sunflower seeds and pumpkin seeds also contain tryptophan, and certain fruits c...[Read More] Top Tryptophan-Rich Vegetables for a Healthy Diet
Why Drinking Soup with Meals May Lead to Digestive Issues
Drinking soup while eating can easily lead to diarrhea? After eating, I often feel the urge to have a bowel movement after drinking soup (my stomach experiences mild pain, approximately one out of every three times). Additionally, I frequently have watery stools. I have intention...
Dr. Cai Xiuwen reply Nutrition
Hello! It is recommended that you first visit a gastroenterologist for an examination to determine if treatment is necessary. Some individuals may experience symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, such as abdominal pain and diarrhea after meals. You can start by drinking soup befo...[Read More] Why Drinking Soup with Meals May Lead to Digestive Issues
Can Military Life Naturally Heal Digestive Issues?
In the military, there are ways to alleviate gastrointestinal discomfort without medication? I've heard that in the military, due to regular routines, proper diet, and timely exercise, common gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea, constipation, and indigestion can often r...
Dr. Cai Xiuwen reply Nutrition
Hello! Unless your gastrointestinal discomfort is caused by an irregular diet and lifestyle, joining the military may not resolve your issues. Gastrointestinal problems require a regular diet, avoiding irritating foods. You may consider consuming yogurt or probiotics to help regu...[Read More] Can Military Life Naturally Heal Digestive Issues?
Nutritional Tips for Vegans with Nut Allergies and Low Energy
Dietary Recommendations for Vegetarians (Nut Allergy) Hello, I have been following a vegetarian diet for over a year due to religious beliefs, but I often feel that my nutritional intake is insufficient, possibly due to my naturally weaker constitution and allergies to nuts (such...
Dr. Cai Xiuwen reply Nutrition
Hello Jessy! If you are following a vegetarian diet and experiencing low energy, it's important to ensure that you are getting enough protein. For a daily intake of 1800 calories, you should aim for 2-3 servings of protein per meal. For example, you could have a block of tra...[Read More] Nutritional Tips for Vegans with Nut Allergies and Low Energy
Can Digestive Supplements Help You Gain Weight Safely?
Appetite stimulants and digestive aids can help increase body weight? I have a body type that doesn't gain weight easily, but I do not have any gastrointestinal diseases (I have seen a doctor). Previously, a friend recommended a digestive supplement, which I took after lunch...
Dr. Cai Xiuwen reply Nutrition
Hello! Lactic acid bacteria are also a type of health supplement. They can aid in digestion and improve gut health, making them beneficial for individuals with poor digestive absorption, as they help with nutrient uptake. There are various types of lactic acid bacteria available ...[Read More] Can Digestive Supplements Help You Gain Weight Safely?
Understanding Gastroenteritis: Symptoms, Treatment, and Diet Tips
It is not a gastric ulcer; it is gastroenteritis? Hello, I visited the doctor today, and he diagnosed me with gastroenteritis (I suspected a gastric ulcer). After taking a packet of medication at noon, my stomach still experiences intermittent pain. How many packets of medication...
Dr. Cai Xiuwen reply Nutrition
Hello! Gastroenteritis typically does not resolve immediately with just one dose of medication. It is recommended that you start with a diet primarily consisting of plain rice porridge and gradually introduce other foods. Store-bought century egg and lean meat porridge often cont...[Read More] Understanding Gastroenteritis: Symptoms, Treatment, and Diet Tips
Dietary Adjustments for Suspected Stomach Ulcers: What to Eat
What dietary measures should be taken for suspected gastric ulcers? If you suspect that you may have a gastric ulcer, it is important to adjust your diet accordingly. Here are some dietary recommendations: 1. **Avoid irritants**: Steer clear of spicy foods, acidic foods (like ci...
Dr. Cai Xiuwen reply Nutrition
Hello! May I ask what symptoms you are experiencing that make you think you have a gastric ulcer? Have you had any outpatient examinations? For gastric ulcers, a gentle diet is recommended, which means: 1. Eat small, frequent meals. 2. Choose foods that are finely textured and ea...[Read More] Dietary Adjustments for Suspected Stomach Ulcers: What to Eat
Enhancing Liver, Gallbladder, and Pancreas Function Through Diet
Are there any dietary methods to strengthen the liver, gallbladder, and pancreas? Hello Dr. Tsai, I previously went to a large hospital for a stool examination (I mentioned my concerns about steatorrhea to the doctor beforehand). During my follow-up appointment, the doctor only t...
Dr. Cai Xiuwen reply Nutrition
Hello! Regarding stool examination, most physicians primarily focus on the presence of blood, as bleeding issues can indicate serious problems. As for the presence of fat, it may be related to diet. Physicians are concerned about any potentially life-threatening conditions, since...[Read More] Enhancing Liver, Gallbladder, and Pancreas Function Through Diet
Does Unsweetened Soy Milk Have Calories? A Nutritional Insight
Unsweetened soy milk Hello, does unsweetened soy milk still contain calories? I make my own unsweetened soy milk because I feel safe about it, and it has no added sugar at all!
Dr. Cai Xiuwen reply Nutrition
Hello! Unsweetened soy milk also contains calories—one cup (240cc) has 75 calories. Soy milk is a great source of plant-based protein, and if it is unfiltered, it is also high in fiber! It is a very healthy food, but individuals with impaired kidney function or those with gout sh...[Read More] Does Unsweetened Soy Milk Have Calories? A Nutritional Insight
Dietary Guidelines for Managing Ulcerative Colitis and High Blood Sugar
Diet for Ulcerative Colitis and Hyperglycemia My husband was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis in March of this year and has been taking Asacol and steroids. As a result, he was found to have high blood sugar in July. In August, due to disease exacerbation, he started on the immu...
Dr. Cai Xiuwen reply Nutrition
Hello! Regarding ulcerative colitis, it is important to follow a light diet. If you are still experiencing diarrhea, you may consider supplementing with glutamine to prevent intestinal villous atrophy and to increase protein intake, especially when liver enzyme levels are elevate...[Read More] Dietary Guidelines for Managing Ulcerative Colitis and High Blood Sugar
Understanding Fat Malabsorption: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Dietary Solutions
Recently, I've been experiencing diarrhea after eating greasy foods? Hello, I would like to respond to the previous message. I looked up the term "steatorrhea" that you mentioned, and I found that the symptoms are quite similar to my bowel situation. Some users men...
Dr. Cai Xiuwen reply Nutrition
Hello, Xiao Shi! As mentioned before, fat malabsorption may be related to the liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. It is advisable for you to visit an outpatient clinic for a thorough examination by a physician. You can discuss your symptoms and the information you have gathered wit...[Read More] Understanding Fat Malabsorption: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Dietary Solutions
Why Greasy Foods Make Me Have Diarrhea: Understanding Digestive Changes
Recently, I have been experiencing diarrhea after eating greasy foods? Recently (actually for over a year), I've noticed that when I eat greasy foods, my stomach feels strange and I have the urge to have a bowel movement, especially when I'm on an empty stomach. The bow...
Dr. Cai Xiuwen reply Nutrition
Hello! It is recommended that you visit the gastroenterology and hepatobiliary clinic for an examination. Generally, fatty diarrhea is commonly associated with issues related to the liver, gallbladder, or pancreas. This response is provided by Dietitian Tsai Hsiu-Wen from Nantou ...[Read More] Why Greasy Foods Make Me Have Diarrhea: Understanding Digestive Changes
Which is Worse for Health: Too Much Sugar or Too Much Fat?
Low sugar or low fat? Hello, I have a very special question to ask. Healthy eating promotes low sugar and low fat, but if I can only choose one between low sugar and low fat in my daily diet, which is more harmful to the body: consuming too much sugar or consuming too much fat? T...
Dr. Cai Xiuwen reply Nutrition
Hello! I have a special question as well. Do you think diabetes is more serious than a stroke? Just kidding, please don't take it the wrong way. In fact, it really depends on the body's nutritional needs; both excess and deficiency can be harmful, so I can't defini...[Read More] Which is Worse for Health: Too Much Sugar or Too Much Fat?
Nutritional Support for Seniors: Boosting Appetite and Health
Nutritional supplementation Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about my grandmother, who is 77 years old. Recently, her appetite has been decreasing, and she seems to lack energy when speaking. Her weight is also decreasing. She has diabetes (not on insulin injections) and is con...
Dr. Cai Xiuwen reply Nutrition
Hello! Grandma has blood sugar issues, so it's important to monitor her blood sugar levels. If her blood sugar is very high, no matter what she eats, it won't help restore her energy because the problem lies in poor blood sugar control. I recommend accompanying Grandma ...[Read More] Nutritional Support for Seniors: Boosting Appetite and Health