Understanding Iron Supplementation: Addressing Fatigue and Cold Extremities
Iron supplementation I often feel cold in my hands and feet and experience fatigue. After giving birth, I gained quite a bit of weight and am currently on a diet. I even feel dizzy and bloated during my menstrual period. A friend suggested that I should supplement with iron, so t...
Dr. Fan Chunmei reply Nutrition
Hello: Improper dieting can lead to nutritional imbalances and deficiencies in certain nutrients. If you need to lose weight, it is advisable to seek professional nutritional counseling to assist you in achieving your weight loss goals. Symptoms of anemia include dizziness, pallo...[Read More] Understanding Iron Supplementation: Addressing Fatigue and Cold Extremities
Managing Prediabetes: Effective Dietary Strategies for Better Health
Dietary Management for Prediabetes Hello, Dr. Fan. I am 186 cm tall and weigh about 74 kg. I have Mediterranean anemia and Wilson's disease. On July 19, my blood glucose and glycated hemoglobin results were 105 mg/dL and 6%, respectively, which indicates prediabetes. I would...
Dr. Fan Chunmei reply Nutrition
The normal range for glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) in the general population is approximately 4-6%, and your HbA1c is within the standard range. A fasting blood glucose level of 100-126 mg/dL indicates prediabetes. It is important to focus on a balanced diet consisting of the six m...[Read More] Managing Prediabetes: Effective Dietary Strategies for Better Health
Essential Nutritional Guidance for Vegetarian Diets: B12 and Omega-3
Vegetarian Nutrition Consultation Hello, Director Fan. I would like to ask you some questions regarding vegetarian nutrition. I switched to a lacto-ovo vegetarian diet last year, consuming one and a half eggs daily, along with unseasoned nuts, pumpkin seeds, edamame, chickpeas, q...
Dr. Fan Chunmei reply Nutrition
Hello, netizens: Vegetarians can obtain plant-based protein from soy products such as tofu, dried tofu, soy milk, bean curd skin, edamame, and black beans. For lacto-ovo vegetarians, milk and eggs are sources of vitamin B12, while algae such as kelp and nori also provide vitami...[Read More] Essential Nutritional Guidance for Vegetarian Diets: B12 and Omega-3
Calcium Supplementation for Lupus Nephritis Patients: Key Considerations
Lupus nephritis and calcium supplementation-related issues? Hello, Dietitian Fan. I have systemic lupus erythematosus with class III lupus nephritis, which has led to nephrotic syndrome and hypertension. Previously, I had high cholesterol, but after medication and dietary adjustm...
Dr. Fan Chunmei reply Nutrition
Hello: It is generally recommended to obtain the daily calcium requirement of 1000 mg for adults from a balanced diet. The Ministry of Health and Welfare's National Health Administration suggests consuming a cup of milk in the morning and evening, with each 240 ml serving of...[Read More] Calcium Supplementation for Lupus Nephritis Patients: Key Considerations
Can My 90-Year-Old Mother Continue Drinking Ensure with High Uric Acid?
Can people with high uric acid levels drink Ensure? My mother is 90 years old and has a history of hypertension and hyperlipidemia for several decades. She has been taking antihypertensive medication (Mizolastine) and cholesterol-lowering medication (Lipitor) for a long time, and...
Dr. Fan Chunmei reply Nutrition
Hello: High uric acid levels are generally not related to the nutritional supplements consumed by the mother. It is recommended to choose plain formulas and avoid those with added sugars. Additionally, for those with high uric acid levels, it is advised to drink more than 2000cc ...[Read More] Can My 90-Year-Old Mother Continue Drinking Ensure with High Uric Acid?
Understanding Slightly Elevated Potassium Levels: What You Need to Know
Slightly elevated serum potassium? Hello, Director Fan. Due to a family history of thyroid issues, I have been regularly getting blood tests every three months (fasting). Recently, one of the results showed potassium: serum potassium slightly elevated at 5.1, which is above the n...
Dr. Fan Chunmei reply Nutrition
Hello: The normal potassium ion concentration in serum is typically between 3.5 and 5.1 mEq/L. Your test result is 5.1, which is at the upper limit of the normal range. It is recommended to pay attention to your diet and avoid excessive intake of high-potassium foods such as swee...[Read More] Understanding Slightly Elevated Potassium Levels: What You Need to Know
Understanding Obesity: What to Expect from Metabolism Consultations
Obesity issues Hello, I want to consult about my weight since it is over 100 kg. I am not familiar with this situation. Someone suggested that I see a metabolic specialist, but I am a bit scared about what issues I might encounter. Is this type of consultation out-of-pocket? Appr...
Dr. Fan Chunmei reply Nutrition
Dear online user: Regarding weight control issues, it is recommended to schedule a consultation at the nutrition clinic. This is generally a self-paid service, with a consultation fee of NT$250. Our nutritionist will provide personalized advice and dietary education based on your...[Read More] Understanding Obesity: What to Expect from Metabolism Consultations
Healthy High-Calorie Cookie Recommendations for Weight Gain
Recommended Cookies for Weight Gain Hello, I am very thin, with a BMI of just over 17, but I have undergone health checks and my body is fine. I simply have poor gastrointestinal absorption. I would like to supplement with some high-calorie but healthy snacks between meals. Do yo...
Dr. Fan Chunmei reply Nutrition
Hello, online user: Long-term caloric intake that is less than caloric expenditure can lead to underweight. To gain weight, in addition to maintaining a balanced diet at three meals, it is essential to consume sufficient carbohydrates, adequate fats, and a moderate amount of prot...[Read More] Healthy High-Calorie Cookie Recommendations for Weight Gain
Is It Safe to Walk After Eating? Tips on Post-Meal Exercise
The issue of walking after meals? Hello, doctor. 1. I would like to ask if it's okay to take a walk immediately after eating, or should I rest for a few minutes before walking? 2. What vegetables can be stored for a long time? (About a week)
Dr. Fan Chunmei reply Nutrition
Hello, netizens: 1. It is generally recommended to wait about 30 minutes after eating before exercising. 2. Vegetables that can be stored for up to a week include carrots, radishes, cabbage, bok choy, onions, broccoli, celery, water chestnuts, mung beans, and green beans. Wishing...[Read More] Is It Safe to Walk After Eating? Tips on Post-Meal Exercise
Dietary Recommendations for Managing High Proteinuria in Kidney Health
Diet for High Proteinuria Hello, Director! I have rheumatoid arthritis, but my kidney function is currently poor with a 24-hour urine protein of 1.62g/d, urine protein at 3+, creatinine at 1.12, serum potassium at 4.2, and a glomerular filtration rate of 54. The urine protein to ...
Dr. Fan Chunmei reply Nutrition
Hello: The diet for chronic kidney disease requires a restriction of protein intake while ensuring adequate caloric intake. It should be tailored based on each patient's blood test results, focusing on a low-protein, low-sodium, low-potassium, low-phosphorus diet that provid...[Read More] Dietary Recommendations for Managing High Proteinuria in Kidney Health
Boosting White Blood Cell Count: Nutrition Tips for Immunosuppressed Patients
How to increase white blood cells? I have rheumatoid arthritis, and long-term use of immunosuppressants has led to a decrease in my white blood cell count. From October 2021 to May 2022, my count fluctuated between 6,000 and 8,000, which was acceptable. However, since June, my co...
Dr. Fan Chunmei reply Nutrition
Hello: A low white blood cell count requires adequate protein intake, as protein provides the necessary materials for the bone marrow to produce white blood cells. You can choose sources such as pork, beef, chicken, fish, and eggs. Traditional Chinese herbs like Astragalus, Ameri...[Read More] Boosting White Blood Cell Count: Nutrition Tips for Immunosuppressed Patients
Nutrition Tips for Muscle Gain and Fat Loss: A Guide for Lupus Patients
Muscle Gain and Fat Loss Diet / Post-Workout Nutrition and Sequence / Low-Protein Diet Weight Loss Adjustment Hello, Dietitian Fan. Recently, I have noticed an increase in my weight, and it seems that I have gained more fat than before at the same weight, primarily accumulating a...
Dr. Fan Chunmei reply Nutrition
Hello: 1. Your height is 156 cm and weight is 48 kg, with an ideal weight of 53.5 kg and a BMI of 19.7, which is considered a normal weight. Since body fat percentage was not provided, if a female's body fat exceeds 30%, it is classified as high body fat, and it is recomme...[Read More] Nutrition Tips for Muscle Gain and Fat Loss: A Guide for Lupus Patients
Food Safety Tips: Storing Cooked Rice and Vegetables Properly
Nutritional Consultation: Vegetables and Fruits 1. Cooked white rice and vegetables sealed in a plastic bag can be stored at room temperature for about 2 hours without the risk of bacterial growth. 2. Cooked white rice and vegetables in an open plastic bag should not be left at ...
Dr. Fan Chunmei reply Nutrition
Hello, it is recommended that cooked food be reheated to a central temperature of above 70°C (158°F) before consumption to avoid the danger zone (7-60°C or 45-140°F), which can promote bacterial growth and cause discomfort. For food storage, it is advised to refrigerate at temper...[Read More] Food Safety Tips: Storing Cooked Rice and Vegetables Properly
Common Weight Loss Diet Questions: Water Intake and Alternatives
Weight loss diet issues? Hello, Doctor. I have been trying to lose weight recently, but I have encountered some issues and would like to ask for your advice: 1. Can I drink ice water while trying to lose weight? I have seen conflicting information online, which has left me quit...
Dr. Fan Chunmei reply Nutrition
Hi: Regarding whether it is advisable to drink ice water during a weight loss period, traditional Chinese medicine practitioners typically do not recommend it, especially for individuals with digestive issues or women with a colder constitution. From a Western medicine perspectiv...[Read More] Common Weight Loss Diet Questions: Water Intake and Alternatives
Does Excessive Exercise Raise Cortisol Levels and Cause Weight Gain?
Does excessive exercise lead to elevated cortisol levels? Hello, Doctor. I apologize for interrupting you during your busy schedule. Since the end of April this year, I have been diligently implementing a weight loss program, starting from 106 kg at 183 cm, and as of November 14 ...
Dr. Fan Chunmei reply Nutrition
Hello, first of all, congratulations on reducing your weight from 106 kg in April to 79 kg. Given your height of 186 cm, your ideal weight is 76.1 kg, and you have achieved this goal, which is quite an accomplishment. To maintain your weight loss, it is important to focus on prop...[Read More] Does Excessive Exercise Raise Cortisol Levels and Cause Weight Gain?
Understanding Low-Protein Diets: Nutritional Guidance for Lupus Patients
Low-protein diet / Dietary calorie and protein calculation Hello, Director Fan. I have lupus erythematosus and previously consulted a nutritionist due to persistently low albumin levels, receiving an educational handout. However, I have some questions regarding my calculations of...
Dr. Fan Chunmei reply Nutrition
Hello: Regarding question 1, according to the Taiwan Nutrition Database, 100 grams of sweet potato contains 114 calories, 1.8 grams of protein, and 25.4 grams of carbohydrates. Sweet potatoes are indeed classified as low-protein foods. As for question 2, the digestibility and abs...[Read More] Understanding Low-Protein Diets: Nutritional Guidance for Lupus Patients
Managing Elevated Triglycerides and Cholesterol Through Diet and Exercise
Elevated triglycerides? Hello, Dr. Fan. I had a physical examination in July and found that my cholesterol levels were high. At that time, my total cholesterol was 6.07 mmol/L, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) was 1.31 mmol/L, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) was 4.46 mmol/L, and trig...
Dr. Fan Chunmei reply Nutrition
Hello, netizen: 1. Dietary control for lipid issues requires at least 3-6 months to see results. For patients with hyperlipidemia, it is generally recommended to maintain an ideal body weight and a regular exercise routine. Aerobic exercises such as brisk walking, swimming, and ...[Read More] Managing Elevated Triglycerides and Cholesterol Through Diet and Exercise
Is Whole Grain Bread Hard to Digest? Exploring Blood Sugar Effects
Is whole grain bread difficult to digest? Hello, Director Fan. Thank you for taking the time to address my concerns. I am 52 years old, 172 cm tall, and weigh 73.5 kg. Although I have no history of diabetes, I pay close attention to my blood pressure and blood sugar levels. Curre...
Dr. Fan Chunmei reply Nutrition
Hello, dear netizen: The digestion process of whole grain bread is slower, which can help maintain a feeling of fullness for a longer period. If you replace your usual rice with two slices of whole grain bread for dinner, it's important to note that 100 grams of white rice c...[Read More] Is Whole Grain Bread Hard to Digest? Exploring Blood Sugar Effects
Understanding Appetite Issues: Tips for Healthy Weight Loss
Weight loss with loss of appetite? I am 156 cm tall and weigh 63 kg, and I have maintained this weight for about six to seven years (I know this is above the normal BMI). I usually eat very little; I don't snack in between meals and I don't have late-night snacks. I typ...
Dr. Fan Chunmei reply Nutrition
Hello: Based on your height and weight, your BMI of 25.9 falls into the overweight category. If you want to continue losing weight, the principle is to eat less and move more. Your caloric intake should not fall below the basal metabolic rate of 1200 calories. It's important...[Read More] Understanding Appetite Issues: Tips for Healthy Weight Loss
How to Ensure Nutritional Needs When Only Consuming Liquids?
Nutritional deficiency I am currently experiencing difficulty swallowing, and since the cause has not yet been identified, I have lost over 10 kilograms due to eating difficulties. At this point, I can only consume pure liquids, and even soft foods like porridge and steamed eggs ...
Dr. Fan Chunmei reply Nutrition
Hello, regarding the cause of your swallowing difficulties, it is recommended to visit a rehabilitation department at the hospital to consult with a speech therapist for an assessment to identify the underlying issues. As for the challenges in eating due to swallowing difficultie...[Read More] How to Ensure Nutritional Needs When Only Consuming Liquids?