Is Ruo Yuan Pill a Food or a Drug? Understanding Its Use for Digestive Health
Is Yuan Dan classified as a food or a drug? I have digestive issues and I'm considering buying Ruo Yuan tablets. Could you please tell me if it is a food product or a medication? If it is a food product, can I take it every day? If it is a medication, I assume I shouldn'...
Dr. Cai Xiuwen Reply:
Hello! Currently, Ruo Yuan tablets have a drug registration number because they were initially applied under the specifications for pharmaceuticals before the regulations for health supplements were standardized. This includes considerations for dosage and safety. Since they are ...[Read More] Is Ruo Yuan Pill a Food or a Drug? Understanding Its Use for Digestive Health
Post-Surgery Nutrition for Elderly Vegans: Essential Supplements
Nutritional supplementation for elderly patients (vegetarians) after orthopedic surgery? Hello, my grandfather is 80 years old and has been a vegetarian for many years. Recently, he underwent surgery for joint degeneration. He is concerned about the nutritional adequacy of a vege...
Dr. Huang Shuli Reply:
Dear Grandson, After surgery, the diet should be based on a balanced intake from six major food groups: carbohydrates, protein sources (meat, fish, eggs, and dairy), vegetables, fruits, and fats. It is important to increase the intake of vitamin C and protein. Food sources of vi...[Read More] Post-Surgery Nutrition for Elderly Vegans: Essential Supplements
Do Digestive Health Supplements Work with Irregular Use?
Medications for promoting gut health and appetite stimulation? Are over-the-counter products like X-Ming or Ruo-X tablets, which are designed to support gut health, effective only when taken continuously? If I only remember to take them occasionally, sometimes with a gap of 3 to ...
Dr. Cai Xiuwen Reply:
Hello! Products like probiotics primarily aim to increase beneficial gut flora. When there is an overgrowth of harmful bacteria in the gut, it can lead to symptoms such as bloating, diarrhea, or constipation. As beneficial bacteria increase, harmful bacteria will relatively decre...[Read More] Do Digestive Health Supplements Work with Irregular Use?
Understanding Chitosan and Chitin: Benefits, Risks, and Dietary Considerations
Regarding chitosan? Chitosan is a functional food that is derived from chitin, which is found in the shells of crustaceans. It is often marketed for its potential benefits in weight management and cholesterol reduction. Chitosan is believed to bind dietary fats and cholesterol, p...
Dr. Xie Peiru Reply:
1. Chitin, chitosan, and chitin derivatives are categorized based on company technology and quality analysis. These are high molecular weight substances extracted from crustaceans, and due to their properties, they are primarily used in health supplements or weight loss products....[Read More] Understanding Chitosan and Chitin: Benefits, Risks, and Dietary Considerations
Do Health Supplements Really Work? Pearl Powder and Vitamin C Insights
Health supplement issues? Is it true that pearl powder can really whiten the skin? I've heard that it's very effective! I bought Vitamin C from Laitui Mei; when should I take it? Is it more effective to take it before bed? Would effervescent tablets be better for absorp...
Dr. Xie Peiru Reply:
Hello, Xiaoyu: Pearls contain various amino acids and trace elements that can enhance skin elasticity and promote skin regeneration. However, a significant component is calcium carbonate, which may have some whitening effects. It is also recommended to use sunscreen, and for deta...[Read More] Do Health Supplements Really Work? Pearl Powder and Vitamin C Insights
Choosing the Right Supplements: Tips for Managing Stress and Nutrition
Nutritional health care Hello, Nutritionist: Sometimes my work schedule is reversed, and I experience high levels of stress. I have the following questions regarding dietary supplements: 1. What should I pay attention to when choosing over-the-counter dietary supplements? 2. Is i...
Dr. Xie Peiru Reply:
Hello, 1. When choosing health supplements, look for the health food label (you can search for the image online). The label number is the Health Department's health food number. If the number starts with "food," it indicates a regular food product with no health ...[Read More] Choosing the Right Supplements: Tips for Managing Stress and Nutrition
Understanding Nutritional Supplements: Addressing Common Concerns
Questions regarding dietary supplements? Hello, nutritionist. My whole family is lacto-vegetarian, and my father usually does not consume high-purine foods or fried foods. He has a normal weight, engages in daily labor and exercise, and drinks tea every day, yet his uric acid and...
Dr. Tang Weili Reply:
Hello! A balanced meal definitely surpasses taking multivitamin pills. In addition to containing various essential known nutrients, natural foods also have many beneficial functional components for health. A lacto-vegetarian diet, if well diversified, can provide sufficient nutri...[Read More] Understanding Nutritional Supplements: Addressing Common Concerns
Understanding DLPC and Its Benefits for Health Supplements
Health supplement issues? Hello, Nutritionist: 1. What is polyunsaturated phosphatidylcholine (DLPC)? What is PPC polyunsaturated phosphatidylcholine? What is DLPC (Dilinoleoylphosphatidylcholine)? 2. If I want to buy DLPC (Dilinoleoylphosphatidylcholine) supplements, where s...
Dr. Xie Peiru Reply:
Hello Hilary, 1. PPC (Phosphatidylcholine from polyunsaturated fatty acids) is primarily extracted from soybeans. Only soybeans can yield PPC that contains alpha-linolenic acid, which means that PPC derived from soybeans contains DLPC (Dilinoleoylphosphatidylcholine). PPC is an ...[Read More] Understanding DLPC and Its Benefits for Health Supplements
Can Bananas Relieve Foot Pain? Exploring Nutritional Benefits for Seniors
Bananas can relieve foot pain? Hello, my mother is 75 years old and often experiences leg pain while sleeping at night. A therapist from a martial arts school mentioned that it might be due to an old injury from heavy work when she was younger. Interestingly, after eating 5 to 6 ...
Dr. Cai Xiuwen Reply:
Hello! Bananas are a highly nutritious food, particularly rich in carbohydrates and potassium ions. Potassium ions play a crucial role in normal muscle contraction and maintaining nerve conduction. It is possible that the previous muscle pain in the legs was due to a deficiency i...[Read More] Can Bananas Relieve Foot Pain? Exploring Nutritional Benefits for Seniors
Essential Foods for Managing Allergies and Skin Conditions
Regarding food? I have been experiencing allergies to an increasing number of foods and have had skin allergies for many years, along with noticeable lymphadenopathy. What types of foods should I eat? Thank you.
Dr. Xie Peiru Reply:
Hello: There are many reasons for allergies, such as individual constitution, environment, stress, and food, among others. It is recommended to undergo allergy testing to clarify the specific allergens, which can help narrow down the prevention measures. Common food allergens inc...[Read More] Essential Foods for Managing Allergies and Skin Conditions
Understanding Carotid Artery Blockage: Causes, Treatments, and Prevention
Carotid artery occlusion Hello Dr. Tsai, My father is 65 years old and has a hereditary history of hypertension. A few days ago, he felt dizzy, and after a hospital examination, it was found that he has carotid artery blockage. I would like to ask: 1. Is there medication avail...
Dr. Cai Xiuwen Reply:
Hello! Regarding your father's arterial blockage, it would be best to consult the physician who conducted the examination for more clarity on the cause. Have there been any tests for lipid levels or diabetes? Generally, to prevent stroke, it is important to control lipid lev...[Read More] Understanding Carotid Artery Blockage: Causes, Treatments, and Prevention
Essential Nutritional Supplements for College Students: A Guide
Regarding suitable health foods for students? Hello Doctor: I have some questions regarding health supplements. I am a 19-year-old female student, and I want to know if it is necessary to take health supplements to compensate for nutritional deficiencies, as it can be quite chall...
Dr. Cai Xiuwen Reply:
Hello! Regarding your question, it is recommended that you visit a nutrition consultation clinic where a dietitian can provide personalized advice based on your individual situation. This response is from Dietitian Tsai Hsiu-Wen at Nantou Hospital, Department of Health.[Read More] Essential Nutritional Supplements for College Students: A Guide
Can Hepatitis B Carriers Safely Consume Health Supplements?
Can a person with hepatitis B consume health supplements? Hello, Dr. Tsai. I am a carrier of hepatitis B and would like to know if it is safe for me to consume health supplements containing spirulina and chlorella, as well as foods beneficial for bone health that contain the foll...
Dr. Cai Xiuwen Reply:
Hello, Xiao Zhen! Hepatitis B does not have specific restrictions on certain nutrients. The dietary principle is based on a balanced diet, which can include high-calorie and high-protein foods. Health supplements are generally acceptable, but the key is to avoid excessive intake....[Read More] Can Hepatitis B Carriers Safely Consume Health Supplements?
Nutritional Support for Late-Stage Lung Cancer Patients: Tips and Advice
Terminal lung cancer? Dear Sir/Madam, My father has been diagnosed with terminal lung cancer and is currently undergoing chemotherapy. At times, he experiences a loss of appetite and struggles to eat. I would like to know how to supplement his nutrition to enhance his immune sys...
Dr. Xie Peiru Reply:
Hello, I apologize for the late response to your question. During chemotherapy, there can be several side effects, such as loss of appetite, changes in taste or smell, and nausea. Here are some recommendations: 1. Maintain a balanced diet, ensure good nutrition, and engage in mod...[Read More] Nutritional Support for Late-Stage Lung Cancer Patients: Tips and Advice
Understanding Health Risks of Green Tea for Hypertension and Heart Disease
Every* Healthy Green Tea Hello, nutritionist. Recently, many health green teas on the market have noted that they are not suitable for individuals with hypertension and heart disease. Could you please explain the basis for this? Does it refer to primary (essential) hypertension o...
Dr. Cai Xiuwen Reply:
Hello! Regarding the product, no ingredients have been found to affect patients with hypertension and heart disease. The only thing to be cautious about is that some patients with hypertension and heart disease may need to limit their fluid intake if they experience fluid retenti...[Read More] Understanding Health Risks of Green Tea for Hypertension and Heart Disease
How to Properly Take Vitamins and Supplements for Optimal Health
How to take vitamin supplements: evening primrose oil, B vitamins, calcium, and grape seed extract? I am currently a graduate student and preparing for a teacher certification exam, living a somewhat nomadic lifestyle. I try to go to bed by 1 AM and wake up at 8 AM. I exercise 1-...
Dr. Shi Guimei Reply:
Hello! I suggest starting with dietary adjustments, which are quite important. Please ensure that you have regular meals and do not skip dinner (irregular eating patterns can also affect the regularity of your menstrual cycle), while consuming a lot of health supplements that you...[Read More] How to Properly Take Vitamins and Supplements for Optimal Health
Understanding Health Supplements: Safety, Benefits, and Dietary Tips
Regarding health foods? Hello, Director: Recently, I have come across some health supplements such as organic spirulina, chlorella, and deep-sea fish oil. I am very interested in purchasing them for health maintenance, but since they are labeled as food products and do not have a...
Dr. Shi Guimei Reply:
Hello! The items listed above are only labeled as food, which means they are not considered health foods. If you want to check the approved list of health foods and their main product claims, you can visit the "Food Information Network of the Department of Health," whic...[Read More] Understanding Health Supplements: Safety, Benefits, and Dietary Tips
Understanding Malnutrition: Impacts and Nutritional Supplement Recommendations
Malnutrition Hello, my father-in-law is 65 years old and undergoes an annual health check-up, which always shows normal results. However, since being diagnosed with diabetes 15 years ago, he has been controlling his diet. Eight years ago, he started a vegetarian diet and has beco...
Dr. Cai Xiuwen Reply:
Hello! You are truly a caring daughter-in-law, showing such concern for your father-in-law's diet. Regarding his dietary intake, based on the meal times and quantities you mentioned, it seems insufficient. According to the dietary reference intake published by the Department...[Read More] Understanding Malnutrition: Impacts and Nutritional Supplement Recommendations
Are Mulberries Safe for Peritoneal Dialysis Patients? Potassium and Phosphorus Content
The potassium and phosphorus content in mulberries? Hello: My mother is a peritoneal dialysis patient, and I would like to know the potassium and phosphorus content in mulberries. Are mulberries suitable for peritoneal dialysis patients to consume? Thank you!
Dr. Cai Xiuwen Reply:
Hello! Peritoneal dialysis can lead to a significant loss of protein, so it is important to include protein-rich foods in the diet. The recommended intake is 1.3 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight, focusing on high-quality protein sources such as meats (especially red m...[Read More] Are Mulberries Safe for Peritoneal Dialysis Patients? Potassium and Phosphorus Content
Do Health Supplements Really Have Therapeutic Effects?
Do health supplements have therapeutic effects? Hello, a friend mentioned that taking health supplements can cause reactions, such as itching of the scalp or rashes on the skin, indicating that there might be an issue with that part of the body. Is this correct? Can foods have su...
Dr. Shi Guimei Reply:
Hello! I do not agree that taking health supplements can lead to adverse reactions. Health supplements must be approved by the Department of Health before they can make any claims. The Department of Health's "Food Information Network" website publishes a list of ap...[Read More] Do Health Supplements Really Have Therapeutic Effects?