Can Barley Grass Tablets Help Lower High Uric Acid Levels?
Hyperuricemia Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if taking Chang Gung Biotechnology's barley grass tablets can help lower high uric acid levels. Thank you.
Dr. Huang Yaoxuan Reply:
Non-medical consultation. Hello: "Chang Gung Biotechnology - Barley Grass Tablets" should be classified as a "dietary supplement," which is different from "medications." Before a medication is marketed by a pharmaceutical company, it must undergo mul...[Read More] Can Barley Grass Tablets Help Lower High Uric Acid Levels?
Understanding Blood Sugar Issues: When to Seek Medical Advice
Blood sugar issues? The hospital's blood test report shows an AC of 89 and an HbA1c of 5.3. Although these values are within the normal range and the lab technician mentioned that a single test may not be conclusive, during the Lunar New Year period, I experienced intermitte...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Alice: 1. According to the diagnostic criteria for diabetes set by the American Diabetes Association: a. Fasting plasma glucose level ≥ 126 mg/dL after 8 hours of fasting, b. Plasma glucose level ≥ 200 mg/dL during a 2-hour oral glucose tolerance test, c. HbA1c (glycate...[Read More] Understanding Blood Sugar Issues: When to Seek Medical Advice
When Should You Start Medication for Diabetes Management?
When should medication treatment for diabetes begin? I just received my blood test report, and my hemoglobin A1c is 7.1, and my fasting blood glucose is 118. I have hypertension and high cholesterol, both of which are controlled with medication. My hemoglobin A1c has been around ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Patient, 1. According to the American Diabetes Association's diagnostic criteria for diabetes: 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, c. HbA1c (glyca...[Read More] When Should You Start Medication for Diabetes Management?
Understanding Hair Loss, Irregular Periods, Weight Gain, and Fatigue
Hair loss, irregular menstruation, weight gain, and easy fatigue? Hello, Doctor: I would like to ask you about my condition. I started experiencing hair loss around July of last year and have visited 3-4 clinics and one large hospital for examinations. The diagnosis from each pla...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: It is recommended that you consult the "Endocrinology and Metabolism Department" as misdiagnosis can occur if the wrong specialty is chosen.[Read More] Understanding Hair Loss, Irregular Periods, Weight Gain, and Fatigue
Sudden Weight Gain: Possible Thyroid Issues and Other Concerns
Weight increased by five kilograms within a week? Hello, as mentioned, I weighed 49 kg on the night of March 27 and 54 kg on March 31. I haven't been overeating these past few days. The only unusual thing is that last night, I suddenly developed a small bump on my lower lip ...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan Reply:
Hello: If you have gained 5 kilograms in weight within four days, you should promptly go to the hospital for an examination to determine if it is due to nephrotic syndrome causing systemic edema. Thank you for your message![Read More] Sudden Weight Gain: Possible Thyroid Issues and Other Concerns
Understanding Dietary Sensitivities: Dizziness and Nausea After Sweet Foods
Dietary Issues Hello doctor, I would like to ask you something. Since elementary school, I have noticed that whenever I consume sweet foods or drinks, I start to feel dizzy and nauseous. This is very obvious, for example, when I drink beverages or eat chocolate. Even fruits that ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Tsai: 1. According to the diagnostic criteria for diabetes set by the American Diabetes Association, the following are summarized: a. Fasting plasma glucose level ≥ 126 mg/dl after at least 8 hours of fasting, b. Plasma glucose level ≥ 200 mg/dl during a 2-hour ...[Read More] Understanding Dietary Sensitivities: Dizziness and Nausea After Sweet Foods
Optimal Timing for Taking Metformin: Should It Be Taken with Meals?
The timing of metformin administration? Hello doctor, I heard that metformin should be taken with meals for better effectiveness. Is this true? Thank you for your response.
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Chen: 1. The action of Metformin is to activate the energy-regulating enzyme AMPK, which reduces hepatic glucose production; this consequently inhibits gluconeogenesis, as well as the synthesis of fatty acids and cholesterol in the liver. At the same time, it increases ...[Read More] Optimal Timing for Taking Metformin: Should It Be Taken with Meals?
Understanding Glycated Hemoglobin: Key Questions for Diabetes Management
Glycated hemoglobin Hello Doctor, I would like to ask you about glycated hemoglobin. There is a family history of diabetes, and I have been vigilant and actively exercising and controlling my diet since December of last year. My height is 155 cm, and my weight has decreased from ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Chen: 1. The measurement of fasting plasma glucose in clinical practice refers to the plasma glucose level after fasting for more than 8 hours. The normal value is below 100 mg/dL; if it falls between 100 and 125 mg/dL, it is termed impaired fasting glycemia. For most i...[Read More] Understanding Glycated Hemoglobin: Key Questions for Diabetes Management
Understanding Weight Distribution and Healthy Eating for Students
I am a student? Hello, Doctor! 1. I am currently a student with a BMI of over 20, but compared to others of the same height, my thighs and buttocks are noticeably larger (while my waist is relatively slim). Could you explain why this is happening? Are there any methods to impro...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. However, my knowledge in this area is limited, and I may not provide an accurate response. I recommend consulting a nutritionist. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Weight Distribution and Healthy Eating for Students
Understanding GI and Weight Management: Tips for Students
GI-related issues Hello, doctor! 1. I am a student with a BMI of over 20, but compared to others of the same height, my thighs and buttocks are noticeably smaller, while my waist is relatively slim. Why is this? Are there ways to improve it? (I spend most of my time in school a...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: 1. To achieve a good physique, in addition to dietary control, exercise is also essential. 2. Your BMI is approximately 20, so there is no need for weight loss; therefore, questions 3 and 4 are irrelevant (do not trust online information; consulting a nutritionist is the b...[Read More] Understanding GI and Weight Management: Tips for Students
Understanding Weight Loss: Tips for Students on Diet and Nutrition
Weight loss and slimming? Hello, doctor! 1. I am currently a student with a BMI of over 20, but compared to others of the same height, my thighs and buttocks are noticeably larger, while my waist is relatively slim. Could you explain why this is the case? Are there any methods ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Miss Lin: 1. For a 16-year-old female, maintaining a BMI (body mass index) between 18.5 and 23.9 kg/m² is considered good. It would be even better if the waist circumference is below 80 cm. As for a larger hip-to-thigh ratio, there could be many reasons, including genetic f...[Read More] Understanding Weight Loss: Tips for Students on Diet and Nutrition
Balancing Sweet Treats and Health: Tips for Pastry Chefs
Sweets and Body Composition Hello Doctor, I am a chef working as a pastry chef in a French dessert shop. I pay great attention to health, but due to my job, I have to taste every dessert. Of course, I know that sugar should be avoided as much as possible. Could you please advise ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Chen: 1. Generally speaking, one gram of starch produces four kilocalories, one gram of protein also produces four kilocalories, while one gram of fat produces nine kilocalories. Given that you are aware of the ingredients used in the French pastry shop, you should be a...[Read More] Balancing Sweet Treats and Health: Tips for Pastry Chefs
Chest Tightness and Dizziness After Exercise: When to See a Doctor?
Chest tightness or pain? Hello doctor, I am currently a high school freshman. I went running on the track with friends last night and tonight, completing about 10 laps, with each lap being 200 meters. I felt fine yesterday, but after running today, I experienced chest tightness a...
Dr. Li Zhiyao Reply:
Hello: If you feel unwell, do not force yourself to exercise. If you feel good before exercising and the intensity of the workout does not exceed your usual level, but you still feel uncomfortable, it is advisable to consult a cardiologist.[Read More] Chest Tightness and Dizziness After Exercise: When to See a Doctor?
Understanding Prediabetes Symptoms: Insights from Military Health Exams
Pre-diabetic symptoms in military service medical examinations? Hello Doctor: I have a few questions for you. I am 23 years old, with a BMI of 18.6 and weighing 48 kg. Before my health check, I ate half a lunch box, and the report showed urine glucose converted to 200 mg/dl, indi...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Anonymous: 1. The Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT) results after a 12-hour fasting show fasting blood glucose: 102 mg/dl, 1 hour: 152 mg/dl, 2 hours: 122 mg/dl, and HbA1c: 5.3%. This result does not meet the criteria for a diabetes diagnosis. It can be classified as i...[Read More] Understanding Prediabetes Symptoms: Insights from Military Health Exams
Understanding Fatigue: Causes and Solutions for Persistent Weakness
Generalized weakness? Hello, Dr. Hsiao! I am 19 years old and have a normal sleep schedule of about 8 hours. I wake up feeling well-rested, but after a while, I start to feel fatigued again. Taking a nap in the afternoon helps somewhat, but I still feel tired shortly after. Recen...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Anonymous: 1. Fatigue is something that almost everyone experiences at some point in their lives, and most diseases can cause fatigue. Typically, fatigue is temporary, self-limiting, and the primary cause can often be identified. Based on the nature of the causes, fati...[Read More] Understanding Fatigue: Causes and Solutions for Persistent Weakness
Understanding Abdominal Distension: Causes and Concerns for Women
The abdomen feels bloated, and there is discomfort when pressure is applied? Recently, I have noticed a sudden increase in the size of my lower abdomen. As a naturally slim woman, my abdomen used to be completely flat, but now it appears more protruded than before. When I have a ...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Lulu: 1. There are many causes of abdominal discomfort, which are often difficult to diagnose. However, symptoms that physicians tend to pay more attention to include fever and chills, nausea and vomiting, belching and bloating, dry mouth, diarrhea, hematemesis, melena, we...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Distension: Causes and Concerns for Women
How Post-Meal Exercise Helps Lower Blood Sugar Levels
Exercise and Blood Sugar Hello doctor, I have noticed that if I exercise after eating, my blood sugar remains within the normal range. However, if I remain seated and inactive after a meal, my blood sugar tends to be higher. Is this situation normal? Why does post-meal activity l...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. Moderate exercise can utilize glucose as the primary energy source and increase the sensitivity of insulin receptors, thereby lowering blood glucose levels—both fasting blood glucose and postprandial blood glucose two hours after meals. Consistent and regular exercise can also...[Read More] How Post-Meal Exercise Helps Lower Blood Sugar Levels
Understanding Blood Sugar Management: Key Indicators and Medication Options
Blood sugar issues Dear Dr. Hsiao, I have been concerned about my blood sugar levels since my health check in 2004, when my fasting blood glucose was 100. I only started medication in 2015, but my weight has decreased from my usual 38 kg to the current 34 kg. For the past ten ye...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. For a 65-year-old diabetic patient, a fasting blood glucose level of 155 mg/dL, a postprandial blood glucose level of 169 mg/dL two hours after eating, and a hemoglobin A1c level of 6.6% indicate relatively good control. Each of these values carries individual significance, an...[Read More] Understanding Blood Sugar Management: Key Indicators and Medication Options
Impact of Diet and Liver Function on Cholesterol Levels: Key Insights
High cholesterol and liver enzymes? Hello, Doctor. I apologize for the interruption, but I would like to ask a question. I had an all-you-can-eat barbecue a few days before my health check, where I consumed seafood and organ meats. Additionally, I had a lot of seafood about ten d...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Hello, it is possible that you have fatty liver disease. I recommend visiting a gastroenterologist for differential diagnosis of liver function abnormalities. Thanks.[Read More] Impact of Diet and Liver Function on Cholesterol Levels: Key Insights
Understanding Thyroid Nodules: Connections to Past Tumors and Health Issues
Tumors have been a constant concern for me? Hello, Doctor. Recently, my mother discovered she has a thyroid nodule and needs surgery. While arranging for her hospitalization after the New Year, the doctor mentioned that my neck seemed a bit abnormal and scheduled blood tests and ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, I hope this message finds you well. The correlation between tumors from 2002 and 2011 and psychiatric medications should be very low; if necessary, you may want to consult your psychiatrist. Regarding thyroid issues, further investigation is needed to determine if there is...[Read More] Understanding Thyroid Nodules: Connections to Past Tumors and Health Issues