Struggling with Post-Meal Blood Sugar Control: What Can You Do?
Postprandial blood sugar levels are difficult to control? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask what I should do if my postprandial blood sugar levels are consistently uncontrolled. I am currently managing my diet, changing the order of my meals, and exercising every day. However, un...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: If dietary control and exercise cannot manage blood sugar levels, medication will need to be used for control.[Read More] Struggling with Post-Meal Blood Sugar Control: What Can You Do?
Managing Hypothyroidism: When to Seek Medical Attention and Dietary Guidelines
Hypothyroidism I have hypothyroidism and secretly stopped taking my medication for a year. A few days ago, I visited an endocrinologist, and my thyroid levels were within the normal range. The doctor said that since I am not taking medication, I should at least return for a follo...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: 1. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue, bradycardia, weight gain, cold and swollen extremities, rough and dry skin, brittle nails, numbness in fingers, absence of sweating, hoarseness, snoring, hair loss, anemia, heavy menstrual bleeding, and loss of libido, among o...[Read More] Managing Hypothyroidism: When to Seek Medical Attention and Dietary Guidelines
Understanding Proteinuria: Risks, Kidney Health, and Dietary Solutions
Kidney disease - Proteinuria I started noticing proteinuria about three years ago, as I often see bubbles in my urine that take a long time to dissipate. It seems that this is due to some issues with my kidneys. 1. I would like to ask if I continue to ignore this condition, is ...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
Based on your description of "often having bubbles when using the restroom," it is important to note that the presence of foam in urine does not automatically indicate proteinuria. The foamy appearance of urine is a reminder to consult a physician for further evaluation...[Read More] Understanding Proteinuria: Risks, Kidney Health, and Dietary Solutions
Understanding the Rise in Glycated Hemoglobin: Concerns and Management
Elevated glycosylated hemoglobin? Hello Doctor, my HbA1c was 5.11 on December 19 and 5.6 on January 27. Is this an increase too fast? There is a family history of diabetes, so I have been exercising daily and controlling my diet since December, but my HbA1c has still increased. A...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: Your elevated hemoglobin A1c indicates that your average blood sugar levels have increased recently, which may be related to increased appetite during the winter and decreased physical activity. It is recommended that you manage your diet and weight, maintain moderate exer...[Read More] Understanding the Rise in Glycated Hemoglobin: Concerns and Management
Understanding Green Stool: When to Seek Medical Attention
Green stool I have a history of hemorrhoids. For the past two days, I have been having green stools, which are not loose but rather solid and formed. I have searched online for related information, and some sources suggest that it could be due to consuming a lot of green vegetabl...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: If you have consumed foods that are rich in blood or iron, it is possible to experience the type of stool you described. If you are certain that you have not eaten such foods, I recommend visiting a gastroenterologist.[Read More] Understanding Green Stool: When to Seek Medical Attention
Understanding HbA1c Levels: Should My Mom See a Doctor at 6.6%?
Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) 6.6? Doctor, my mother is 58 years old. Last May, her HbA1c was 5.9%. Since then, she hasn't seen a doctor or taken any medication, nor has she made any special dietary changes until recently, when she started controlling her diet and monitoring h...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: Your mother's "glycated hemoglobin" has increased by 0.7 over the past eight months, which should not be taken lightly. It is recommended to consult with a specialist in endocrinology. It would also be beneficial for her to receive education from a nutrition...[Read More] Understanding HbA1c Levels: Should My Mom See a Doctor at 6.6%?
Understanding OGTT Results: What Your Glucose Levels Mean
OGTT test and results Hello Doctor, I went to the laboratory for an OGTT, and they gave me a glucose solution with 50g of glucose powder. The results are as follows: HbA1c 5.0%, Fasting 87 mg/dL (70-110 mg/dL), 30 minutes post-ingestion 138 mg/dL (80-170 mg/dL), 1 hour post-inges...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. In clinical medicine, regarding the glucose tolerance test for diabetes, various dosages and reference values for test results have been developed over the past 60 years. In fact, endocrinologists may not remember every testing method and dosage. The commonly used testing meth...[Read More] Understanding OGTT Results: What Your Glucose Levels Mean
Understanding Low Potassium Levels: Causes and Management for Seniors
Inquiry about Potassium (K) Testing Hello Director Wu, my mother is 65 years old. In March 2014, she experienced a mild cerebral infarction due to atrial fibrillation, but she has recovered well and can live independently. In November of last year, a blood test showed her potassi...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
Hello, based on the information you provided, here are a few points for your reference: (1) Normal serum potassium levels range from 3.5 to 5 mg/dL. A level of 3.4 is considered mildly low, and the clinical risk associated with this is not high. Complications from severe hypoka...[Read More] Understanding Low Potassium Levels: Causes and Management for Seniors
Understanding the Impact of Protein Foods on Blood Sugar Levels
Dietary Control of Blood Sugar Levels Hello Doctor: I would like to ask about the impact of eggs, beans, fish, and meat on blood sugar levels. In the fourth paragraph of this article, it states, "Foods that do not affect blood glucose levels include vegetables, fats, and egg...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
Regarding the principles and applications of the Glycemic Index (GI), you may refer to this paper: http://www2.dietitians.org.tw/userfiles/TJD%202-1-02.pdf. It should address your questions. Thank you for your inquiry. The Nephrology Department of Changhua Hospital cares about yo...[Read More] Understanding the Impact of Protein Foods on Blood Sugar Levels
Understanding Kidney Function: GFR vs. Creatinine in Health Concerns
Glomerular filtration rate and kidney disease issues? Hello Dr. Wu: I am 180 cm tall and weigh about 71 kg. Recently, for the past month, I have noticed persistent bubbles in my urine and have experienced increased urinary frequency (especially 2-3 hours after consuming sugary dr...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
Based on the data you provided, the physician's response is correct because the current formula for estimating glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is derived from international sources, while domestic scholars have been researching a formula specific to our population. In summa...[Read More] Understanding Kidney Function: GFR vs. Creatinine in Health Concerns
Dealing with Severe Constipation: Seeking Solutions Beyond Medications
Severe constipation Last year, I drank laxative tea daily for weight loss and then switched to aloe vera capsules, which I eventually stopped using. However, now I cannot have regular bowel movements without relying on traditional Chinese medicine or probiotic powder to stimulate...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: 1. It is recommended to develop a habit of using the restroom at a fixed time each day (preferably during a more relaxed period) and avoid reading newspapers or using your phone while on the toilet. 2. You can massage your abdomen, focusing on the area around the navel,...[Read More] Dealing with Severe Constipation: Seeking Solutions Beyond Medications
Understanding Kidney Function: GFR vs. Creatinine in Chronic Kidney Disease
Glomerular filtration rate and kidney disease issues? Hello Dr. Wu, I am 180 cm tall and weigh around 71 kg. Recently, for the past month, I have noticed persistent bubbles in my urine, and I feel that I have increased urinary frequency (especially 2-3 hours after consuming suga...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
Based on the data you provided, the physician's response is correct because the current formula for estimating glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is derived from international sources, while domestic scholars are researching a formula specific to our population. In summary, re...[Read More] Understanding Kidney Function: GFR vs. Creatinine in Chronic Kidney Disease
Understanding Diabetes: Symptoms, Testing, and Risk Factors Explained
Diabetes concerns? Hello Dr. Lee: In the past month, I have noticed persistent bubbles in my urine and have experienced increased urinary frequency, especially 2 to 3 hours after consuming sugary drinks, along with nocturia. I am concerned about kidney disease or diabetes. Last w...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: It is recommended that you consult an endocrinologist for further examination to determine your current condition. As for the causes of diabetes, there are many factors beyond diet, including genetic factors, lifestyle, lack of exercise, and more. The endocrinologist will ...[Read More] Understanding Diabetes: Symptoms, Testing, and Risk Factors Explained
Understanding OGTT Results: Can Normal Glycation Indicate Diabetes?
OGTT test and glycation? Hello doctor, if the glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) is normal at 5.1%, but the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) exceeds 200 mg/dL, would that be classified as diabetes? Is this a possibility? Thank you.
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
According to the diagnostic criteria for diabetes set by the American Diabetes Association: a. Fasting plasma glucose level ≥ 126 mg/dL after fasting for at least 8 hours, b. Plasma glucose level ≥ 200 mg/dL during a 2-hour oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), c. HbA1c ≥ 6.5% (thi...[Read More] Understanding OGTT Results: Can Normal Glycation Indicate Diabetes?
Managing Postprandial Blood Sugar: Can Metformin Restore Normal Levels?
Medications for treating postprandial hyperglycemia? Hello, doctor. I heard that Metformin can be used to treat abnormal postprandial blood sugar levels. Can this medication really help the body return to normal? Once normal levels are achieved, can I stop taking it, or will I ne...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. According to the diagnostic criteria for diabetes set by the American Diabetes Association, a. Fasting plasma glucose level ≥126 mg/dL after fasting for more than 8 hours, b. 2-hour plasma glucose level ≥200 mg/dL during an Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT), c. HbA1c ≥6.5% (m...[Read More] Managing Postprandial Blood Sugar: Can Metformin Restore Normal Levels?
Managing Hunger and Diabetes: Understanding Blood Sugar Control and Weight Loss
Annoying hunger pangs Hello Doctor, in November 2014, during my health check-up, the doctor diagnosed me with diabetes (fasting blood sugar of 136 after 8 hours, HbA1c of 6.9). The doctor did not prescribe any medication but advised me to buy a blood glucose monitor for self-moni...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: 1. Your blood sugar is under control, but this does not mean that diabetes has been cured. 2. Regarding hunger, it is initially recommended to consume foods that are filling yet low in calories. For detailed advice, it is suggested that you consult a nutritionist at a hosp...[Read More] Managing Hunger and Diabetes: Understanding Blood Sugar Control and Weight Loss
Should You See an Endocrinologist for Persistent Acne Issues?
Should I see a dermatologist for these symptoms? I have been experiencing acne on my face since the fourth grade and I am now 18 years old. It has never improved. My daily routine is normal, and my diet is primarily light. I do not smoke. I have seen dermatologists (at least for ...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan Reply:
Hello: It is more appropriate to see a dermatologist. Thank you for your message![Read More] Should You See an Endocrinologist for Persistent Acne Issues?
How Eating Fruits Affects Post-Meal Blood Sugar Levels
Timing for Blood Sugar Measurement Hello doctor, I would like to measure my mother's postprandial blood sugar. After she ate dinner, she had two pieces of cantaloupe half an hour later (she started eating at 18:20 and measured her blood sugar at 20:20, which was 181; however...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. Measuring blood glucose levels two hours after a meal is certainly influenced by all the food consumed during those two hours. However, it seems that there are no clinical guidelines specifying whether or not one can eat fruit after a meal before measuring blood glucose levels...[Read More] How Eating Fruits Affects Post-Meal Blood Sugar Levels
Understanding Low Glomerular Filtration Rate: What You Need to Know
Low glomerular filtration rate (GFR) Hello doctor, I am currently 26 years old and below are my data (the abnormal ones related to kidney function tests). Last year, my blood pressure was 137/80, cholesterol was 208 (standard upper limit is 200), white blood cells were 4.7 (norma...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
Based on the data you provided, the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) has decreased from 94.58 to 80.89, which raises concerns about changes in kidney function. Currently, the GFR we use is derived from studies conducted by international scholars, and there are also researchers in...[Read More] Understanding Low Glomerular Filtration Rate: What You Need to Know
Understanding Elevated Fasting Blood Sugar: Causes and Follow-Up
Elevated blood sugar levels in health checkup? The fasting blood glucose level from the health check was measured at 107 mg/dL, and the glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) is normal. I recently consumed more sweets than usual over the past two weeks. Could this have an impact, or is it u...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. Generally, a normal fasting plasma glucose level is less than 100 mg/dL. If it falls between 100 mg/dL and 126 mg/dL, it can be considered as prediabetes or impaired fasting glucose. Of course, if the postprandial blood glucose is greater than or equal to 126 mg/dL, diabetes s...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Fasting Blood Sugar: Causes and Follow-Up