Understanding Blood Test Results: Managing Cholesterol and Triglycerides
Blood draw issues? Hello Doctor, I recently had a blood test due to knee pain. The report was mostly fine, but there were two concerning values regarding my lipid profile: total cholesterol 165 mg/dL, triglycerides 215 mg/dL, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) 32 mg/dL, and low-densi...
Dr. Cai Xiuwen reply Nutrition
Hello, the standard for total cholesterol should be below 200 mg/dL, and triglycerides should be below 150 mg/dL. However, the reference values may vary among different hospitals. It is recommended to have triglycerides tested after fasting for more accurate results. Therefore, y...[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Results: Managing Cholesterol and Triglycerides
Does Skipping Meals Affect Health? Insights on Nutrition and Blood Sugar
Does skipping a meal or not eating when not hungry affect health? Recently, I may have indulged too much and gained several kilograms, so I started trying to skip a meal or not eat if I don't feel hungry. Will this affect my health? Additionally, I'm concerned whether s...
Dr. Cai Xiuwen reply Nutrition
Hello, the body's energy metabolism is a dynamic balance that depends on physical activity and caloric intake. When physical activity is high and caloric intake is low, the body will first utilize stored glycogen and fat to maintain basal metabolic rate. Short-term caloric r...[Read More] Does Skipping Meals Affect Health? Insights on Nutrition and Blood Sugar
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 la...
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 c...[Read More] Struggling with Nutrition: Overcoming Cravings and Health Challenges
Can Medications Help with Weight Gain for Those with IBS?
Are there any medications that can help with weight gain? Hello, doctor. I am very thin, with a BMI of only 18.2, but I eat three meals a day (lunch/dinner/snack). However, I have ongoing gastrointestinal issues, specifically diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome, which c...
Dr. Cai Xiuwen reply Nutrition
Hello, there are many factors that can influence weight, including genetics, physical activity, stress, thyroid function, and gastrointestinal issues. If your doctor has ruled out other disease factors, you can consult a nutritionist to discuss and assess whether your dietary nut...[Read More] Can Medications Help with Weight Gain for Those with IBS?
Understanding Whey Protein Consumption: Tips for Optimal Health
Ways to consume whey protein? Hello, I have been consuming whey protein single-serving packets (35g per packet) for about 1 to 2 years. The nutritional label indicates 27 grams of protein per serving, and it contains some vitamins and BCAAs. I usually drink it for breakfast on we...
Dr. Cai Xiuwen reply Nutrition
Hello, may I ask if you are currently experiencing any gastrointestinal discomfort with your current intake? As for consuming protein powder as a single meal, it generally does not impose a burden or have adverse effects on individuals with normal gastrointestinal function, unles...[Read More] Understanding Whey Protein Consumption: Tips for Optimal Health
Nutrition and Weight Management Tips for High School Students
Nutrition, Weight, and Weight Loss During Adolescence Hello, doctor. I am a student about to enter my senior year of high school. In recent semesters, I have received notifications about being overweight during the height and weight measurements at school. I would like to appropr...
Dr. Cai Xiuwen reply Nutrition
Hello, the senior year of high school is a crucial period in life, and it is important to develop good dietary habits and a regular lifestyle to cope with the busy and high-pressure environment of the final year. Therefore, it is recommended that you plan your schedule for the su...[Read More] Nutrition and Weight Management Tips for High School Students
Managing Prediabetes: Nutrition Tips for Weight Gain and Blood Sugar Control
Prediabetes Hello, doctor. I am 173 cm tall, and my weight has decreased from 45.2 kg in March to 41.4 kg in May. Today, on June 7, it has increased to 42.2 kg. I have always had difficulty gaining weight, with my highest weight being 47 kg. Due to my continuous weight loss this ...
Dr. Cai Xiuwen reply Nutrition
Hello, your height is 173 cm, weight is 42.2 kg, fasting blood glucose is 96 mg/dL, and HbA1c is 5.7%. Your thyroid antibodies are normal. Do you have a family history of diabetes? Do you have any gastrointestinal issues? What is your usual level of physical activity? Currently, ...[Read More] Managing Prediabetes: Nutrition Tips for Weight Gain and Blood Sugar Control
Addressing Zinc Deficiency: Supplementation Tips for Dietary Restrictions
The issue of zinc? If a person does not consume wheat, seafood, and red meat, they may be at risk of zinc deficiency, especially if they also have gastrointestinal issues, such as suspected celiac disease. If additional supplementation is needed, it is advisable to consider zinc ...
Dr. Cai Xiuwen reply Nutrition
According to the eighth edition of the Dietary Reference Intakes for Taiwanese citizens published by the Ministry of Health and Welfare, the recommended daily intake is 15 mg for men and 12 mg for women. Whether zinc deficiency exists depends on individual dietary habits and abso...[Read More] Addressing Zinc Deficiency: Supplementation Tips for Dietary Restrictions
Chilled vs. Warm Drinks: Which is Healthier for Your Body?
Which is better, cooling or thawing? Hello, sometimes when I buy drinks (including soy milk, coffee, etc.), if I can't drink them right away and I don't consider putting them in the refrigerator (because I can't drink cold drinks), should I buy iced drinks to let t...
Dr. Cai Xiuwen reply Nutrition
Hello, regarding the issue of food temperature and food safety, it is important to avoid leaving food in the danger zone of 7-65 degrees Celsius for too long, as this may lead to bacterial growth. As for individuals who cannot consume cold foods, adjustments should be made based ...[Read More] Chilled vs. Warm Drinks: Which is Healthier for Your Body?
How Black Sesame Powder Can Help Control Blood Sugar Levels
I have questions regarding black sesame? Consulting a nutritionist, does black sesame powder help with blood sugar control? Also, what is the recommended daily intake of black sesame powder? Thank you.
Dr. Cai Xiuwen reply Nutrition
Hello, the main factors affecting blood sugar control are the total sugar content in food and physiological factors. If the total sugar intake is controlled, black sesame, which belongs to the nut category, is recommended at 1-2 teaspoons per day and should not significantly impa...[Read More] How Black Sesame Powder Can Help Control Blood Sugar Levels
Recommended Daily Intake of Carotenoids: How Much is Enough?
The recommended daily intake of carotenoids, such as beta-carotene found in carrots, varies depending on dietary guidelines and individual health needs. Generally, it is suggested that adults consume a variety of fruits and vegetables to achieve I would like to consult a nutritio...
Dr. Cai Xiuwen reply Nutrition
According to the eighth edition of the "Dietary Reference Intakes" (DRIs) published by the Ministry of Health and Welfare's National Health Administration, the recommended dietary allowance for vitamin A is 600 micrograms of Retinol Equivalents (RE) for males and 5...[Read More] Recommended Daily Intake of Carotenoids: How Much is Enough?
Can Drinking Green Tea Cause Carotenemia? Understanding Beta-Carotene Levels
Carotenemia I would like to ask if the green tea sold in general convenience stores contains high levels of beta-carotene. I personally consume spirulina and enjoy drinking green tea. I'm concerned whether this could lead to hypercarotenemia.
Dr. Cai Xiuwen reply Nutrition
Hello, the green tea from general convenience stores may have different added ingredients depending on the brand, but it should not contain carotenoids. If green algae is made into tablets, the intake amount and content are unlikely to be excessive, so there should not be an issu...[Read More] Can Drinking Green Tea Cause Carotenemia? Understanding Beta-Carotene Levels
Understanding Body Fat Scales and Visceral Fat Index: Key Insights
Questions about body fat scales and visceral fat index? Hello, Dietitian Tsai: Today, I visited a medical facility to measure various body data using a "bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA)" scale (similar to a regular scale, which can simultaneously measure weight, b...
Dr. Cai Xiuwen reply Nutrition
1. The principle of body fat scales is based on the use of a small electrical current passing through the body, which estimates body composition by measuring resistance. Since hydration levels can affect conductivity, measurements may vary due to environmental and dietary factors...[Read More] Understanding Body Fat Scales and Visceral Fat Index: Key Insights
Can You Use Citrus Essential Oils If You Can't Eat Citrus Fruits?
Citrus-related issues? If someone cannot consume citrus fruits, is it safe to inhale citrus essential oils?
Dr. Cai Xiuwen reply Nutrition
Hello, if you cannot eat citrus fruits, is it due to an allergy to them? If you are allergic to citrus fruits, it is also advisable to avoid using citrus essential oils as much as possible.[Read More] Can You Use Citrus Essential Oils If You Can't Eat Citrus Fruits?
Can High-Dose Vitamins Help with Sleep and Immunity Issues?
Nutritional Consultation Hello, I have been experiencing issues such as insomnia, joint pain, and a weakened immune system. I was sold a bottle of high-dose vitamins containing 1500 mcg of Vitamin A, 125 mcg (5000 IU) of Vitamin D3, and 500 mcg of Vitamin K2. After researching on...
Dr. Cai Xiuwen reply Nutrition
Hello, regarding the intake of nutrients, you can refer to the revised eighth edition of the Recommended Dietary Allowances and Tolerable Upper Intake Levels published by the National Health Administration for evaluating your intake levels. (For details, please visit the National...[Read More] Can High-Dose Vitamins Help with Sleep and Immunity Issues?
Do Nutritional Supplements Affect Neurofibromatosis Type 1?
Inquiry about nutritional supplements? Hello, nutritionist. I have a few questions regarding dietary supplements, thank you. Since I am a patient with Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1) and I am exercising and taking supplements, I would like to know if these supplements could affect...
Dr. Cai Xiuwen reply Nutrition
Hello, regarding neurofibromas and nutrients, I have not conducted in-depth research yet. However, nutrient supplementation can initially be achieved through the selection of natural foods. If assessed by a nutritionist or doctor, supplementation can be done according to their re...[Read More] Do Nutritional Supplements Affect Neurofibromatosis Type 1?
Can Elderly Patients on Blood Thinners Safely Consume Honey?
Can I consume honey while taking anticoagulants? My father, who is 92 years old, is taking LIXIANA FC TAB 30MG (edoxaban) to prevent non-valvular atrial fibrillation combined with congestive heart failure and hypertension. I would like to know if it is safe to give him honey, and...
Dr. Cai Xiuwen reply Nutrition
Hello, regarding the interaction between LIXIANA FC TAB 30MG and food, it is advisable to consult a pharmacist. As for honey, if there are issues with diabetes, it is important to control the total amount of carbohydrates. One tablespoon of honey (20 grams) contains approximately...[Read More] Can Elderly Patients on Blood Thinners Safely Consume Honey?
Understanding Food Digestion: Rice, Toast, Instant Noodles, and Tea
Nutritional Consultation Continued 1. Doctor, is it true that for a person with a normal constitution, rice takes about one hour to digest? Also, does toast digest faster than white rice? 2. I would like to ask if instant noodles are as difficult to digest as mentioned online. ...
Dr. Cai Xiuwen reply Nutrition
Hello! I'm not sure what gastrointestinal issues you are experiencing. If the above suggestions do not resolve your concerns, I recommend scheduling an appointment with a physician for a thorough examination to address and improve the problem. Thank you, and I wish you peace...[Read More] Understanding Food Digestion: Rice, Toast, Instant Noodles, and Tea
Understanding Food Digestion: Does Portion Size Affect Time?
Nutritional Consultation I would like to ask the doctor if a bowl of rice takes about one hour to digest. If I only eat half a bowl of rice, does that mean it cannot be digested in a shorter time? Also, regarding pork, which is difficult to digest, would grinding it into minced m...
Dr. Cai Xiuwen reply Nutrition
Hello, smaller food portions will result in shorter digestion times. Pork contains fat, so its digestion time is longer than that of rice. However, if the food is blended into finer particles, it can enhance the mixing with gastric juices and potentially reduce digestion time. Wi...[Read More] Understanding Food Digestion: Does Portion Size Affect Time?
Understanding Digestion Time: Rice vs. Other Foods
Digestion Time Issues I would like to ask the doctor, the internet says that rice can be digested and emptied from the stomach in about an hour for individuals with normal digestion. If I only eat half a bowl of rice, around 100 grams, can it also be digested and emptied in an ho...
Dr. Cai Xiuwen reply Nutrition
Hello! The digestion of food and gastric emptying depend on individual digestive conditions as well as the type and quantity of food consumed. Generally speaking, liquid foods empty from the stomach faster than solid foods, simple carbohydrates empty faster than complex carbohydr...[Read More] Understanding Digestion Time: Rice vs. Other Foods