Can You Build Muscle Without Gaining Weight? Insights on Strength Training
Regarding muscle training? Is it possible to build muscle without gaining weight? I've been lifting dumbbells daily for arm strength over the past few weeks, but my weight hasn't increased. Can I still gain muscle this way? Thank you.
Dr. Cai Xiuwen Reply:
Hello! The body's weight includes skeletal muscle, blood, organs, and more. Changes in body weight are usually most affected by water content. Therefore, when the body is dehydrated or sweating excessively, weight can drop several kilograms quickly. Additionally, when starti...[Read More] Can You Build Muscle Without Gaining Weight? Insights on Strength Training
Top Tryptophan-Rich Vegetables for a Healthy Diet
Regarding tryptophan-rich foods? Which vegetables contain the highest levels of tryptophan? I eat vegetarian hot pot. Thank you for your response.
Dr. Cai Xiuwen Reply:
Hello~ Tryptophan is an amino acid primarily found in protein-rich foods. Vegetarians may consider choosing legumes such as soybeans, or dairy products like milk and cheese. Additionally, nuts such as sunflower seeds and pumpkin seeds also contain tryptophan, and certain fruits c...[Read More] Top Tryptophan-Rich Vegetables for a Healthy Diet
Nutritional Care for Stage IV Lung Cancer Patients on Dialysis
Patients with stage IV lung cancer undergoing dialysis? Hello, my family member was recently diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer and is currently undergoing targeted therapy. However, he is also a dialysis patient and has depression, which has affected his appetite and sleep. I w...
Dr. Huang Yuru Reply:
It is recommended to have small, frequent meals that are high in calories and protein to supplement energy and nutrition, along with appropriate amounts of zinc and vitamins B and C. Foods rich in zinc include animal-based foods, which generally contain more zinc than plant-based...[Read More] Nutritional Care for Stage IV Lung Cancer Patients on Dialysis
Nutritional Tips for Vegans with Nut Allergies and Low Energy
Dietary Recommendations for Vegetarians (Nut Allergy) Hello, I have been following a vegetarian diet for over a year due to religious beliefs, but I often feel that my nutritional intake is insufficient, possibly due to my naturally weaker constitution and allergies to nuts (such...
Dr. Cai Xiuwen Reply:
Hello Jessy! If you are following a vegetarian diet and experiencing low energy, it's important to ensure that you are getting enough protein. For a daily intake of 1800 calories, you should aim for 2-3 servings of protein per meal. For example, you could have a block of tra...[Read More] Nutritional Tips for Vegans with Nut Allergies and Low Energy
Long-Term Consumption of Ensure: Risks for Kidney Health
Abbott Ensure Is long-term consumption of Ensure (Abbott's nutritional supplement) likely to cause kidney problems?
Dr. Liu Qiaoyun Reply:
Owen: Hello. According to Abbott's data, one can of Ensure liquid contains 9.3 grams of protein and 266 calories. Therefore, for most people, using it as part of their daily diet as a nutritional supplement should not pose significant issues. However, if you are considering ...[Read More] Long-Term Consumption of Ensure: Risks for Kidney Health
Post-Thyroidectomy Nutrition Tips for Throat Cancer Patients
Nutritional Considerations After Total Laryngectomy for Laryngeal Cancer Hello, Doctor. My father (72 years old) has undergone a total laryngectomy due to throat cancer and has just been discharged from the hospital. What dietary considerations should I keep in mind (besides avoi...
Dr. Shi Guimei Reply:
Dear Amy, Hello! The dietary-related side effects following throat surgery include difficulty swallowing and the potential risk of aspiration. Please note the following dietary considerations: 1. It is essential to have a balanced intake of the six major food groups daily: dair...[Read More] Post-Thyroidectomy Nutrition Tips for Throat Cancer Patients
Does Unsweetened Soy Milk Have Calories? A Nutritional Insight
Unsweetened soy milk Hello, does unsweetened soy milk still contain calories? I make my own unsweetened soy milk because I feel safe about it, and it has no added sugar at all!
Dr. Cai Xiuwen Reply:
Hello! Unsweetened soy milk also contains calories—one cup (240cc) has 75 calories. Soy milk is a great source of plant-based protein, and if it is unfiltered, it is also high in fiber! It is a very healthy food, but individuals with impaired kidney function or those with gout sh...[Read More] Does Unsweetened Soy Milk Have Calories? A Nutritional Insight
Dietary Guidelines for Managing Ulcerative Colitis and High Blood Sugar
Diet for Ulcerative Colitis and Hyperglycemia My husband was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis in March of this year and has been taking Asacol and steroids. As a result, he was found to have high blood sugar in July. In August, due to disease exacerbation, he started on the immu...
Dr. Cai Xiuwen Reply:
Hello! Regarding ulcerative colitis, it is important to follow a light diet. If you are still experiencing diarrhea, you may consider supplementing with glutamine to prevent intestinal villous atrophy and to increase protein intake, especially when liver enzyme levels are elevate...[Read More] Dietary Guidelines for Managing Ulcerative Colitis and High Blood Sugar
Is It Safe for 9-Year-Olds to Drink Ensure for Protein Needs?
Can a 9-year-old child drink Ensure? Hello, Dietitian Liu. My son is a swimmer and requires a large amount of high protein to support his energy and muscle development. I have chosen Abbott Ensure High Calcium and Peptamen, giving him two bottles a day. Will long-term consumption...
Dr. Liu Qiaoyun Reply:
Owen: Hello. Each bottle of Abbott Ensure has 12 grams of protein, so two bottles provide 24 grams. As for the total daily protein requirement, it needs to be calculated comprehensively. I suggest you consult a coach regarding the child's daily exercise duration and intensit...[Read More] Is It Safe for 9-Year-Olds to Drink Ensure for Protein Needs?
Can You Heat Lemon Juice with Milk? Nutrition Tips Explained
Heating lemon juice with milk? Hello, doctor. I heard that drinking lemon juice makes it less likely to gain weight when eating. I usually drink a cup of pure lemon juice (just water and no sugar) in the morning, but I love milk. I saw you mentioned that they can be consumed toge...
Dr. Shi Guimei Reply:
Dear Coco, Hello! The idea that drinking lemon juice before eating can help prevent weight gain is a misconception. The key factors in avoiding obesity are related to caloric intake and caloric expenditure. Cold lemon juice can be mixed with milk and then microwaved for consumpt...[Read More] Can You Heat Lemon Juice with Milk? Nutrition Tips Explained
Post-Surgery Nutrition: Is Plant-Based Protein Powder Safe After Uterine Fibroid Surgery?
Postoperative Diet After uterine fibroid surgery, is it appropriate to consume plant-based protein powder or nutritional supplements that help with blood and energy replenishment? I heard that there is a jujube extract that is rich in vitamins and iron; is it suitable to drink?
Dr. Huang Yuru Reply:
In the early postoperative period, it is advisable to adopt a diet that is high in protein and calories to aid in the recovery of strength and wound healing. Additionally, a balanced diet including vegetables and fruits is essential, as they contain vitamins and minerals that hel...[Read More] Post-Surgery Nutrition: Is Plant-Based Protein Powder Safe After Uterine Fibroid Surgery?
Nutrition and Chemotherapy: Managing Diet for Colorectal Cancer Patients
Chemotherapy for Colorectal Cancer and Diet Hello, nutritionist. My mother is 60 years old with a BMI of 24. She is a stage IV colorectal cancer patient with liver metastasis, has a 30-year history of hypertension, and a 3-year history of diabetes. In July of this year, she under...
Dr. Xie Huimin Reply:
Hello: The most important dietary consideration for chemotherapy patients is to ensure adequate nutrition. First, it is essential to understand whether the food intake is nutritionally balanced and calorically sufficient. You can consult a hospital dietitian to calculate the tota...[Read More] Nutrition and Chemotherapy: Managing Diet for Colorectal Cancer Patients
Which Age Groups Should Drink Whole vs. Skim Milk?
Whole milk and skim milk are suitable for different age groups. Whole milk is generally recommended for children aged 1 to 2 years, as it provides essential fats necessary for growth and brain development. Skim milk, on the other hand, is typically recommended for older children,...
Dr. Shi Guimei Reply:
Dear Dolphin, Hello! Whether it is whole milk, low-fat milk, or skim milk, each serving is 240cc. Whole milk contains 8 grams of protein, 8 grams of fat, 12 grams of carbohydrates, and 150 calories per serving. Low-fat milk contains 8 grams of protein, 4 grams of fat, 12 grams o...[Read More] Which Age Groups Should Drink Whole vs. Skim Milk?
Understanding Acidic Body Conditions and the Milk Debate
Acidic constitution and milk issues? Hello, nutritionist. I have issues with an acidic body constitution, and there are many suggestions online for improving this condition. I'm unsure about their accuracy, so I would like to ask the doctor how I should change my diet, espec...
Dr. Lu Guanqi Reply:
Hello, the human body has an acid-base regulation system, so strictly speaking, there is no distinction of "acidic or alkaline constitution." What can be differentiated is the "acid-base nature" of foods. Foods that contain a higher amount of cations, such as ...[Read More] Understanding Acidic Body Conditions and the Milk Debate
Understanding Immune Modulation in Health Foods for RA Patients
What is the function of immune modulation in health supplements? Hello, Director Shi. I am the RA patient with osteomyelitis, and I have a few questions to ask! 1. I found on the FDA health food website that one of the benefits is "immune modulation." I inquired with ...
Dr. Shi Guimei Reply:
Dear Sir/Madam, Hello! It is best for you to seek treatment from a physician specialized in rheumatic diseases. I believe you should avoid supplements that enhance immune function, as their dosages are significantly higher than those found in natural foods, which could potential...[Read More] Understanding Immune Modulation in Health Foods for RA Patients
Managing Caloric Intake: Tips for Nutrition and Weight Loss
Caloric control issues? Hello, Director Shi. I previously attended a weight loss class and now have some questions regarding calorie counting: 1. If I cannot find a food item in the food exchange list, what should I do to convert the food portion? 2. How can I convert the nutri...
Dr. Shi Guimei Reply:
Dear Lily, Hello! 1. If the food you consume is not listed in the food exchange table, you can visit the Department of Health's website to check the "Taiwan Nutritional Composition Database" at http://www.doh.gov.tw/FoodAnalysis/ingredients.htm. 2. The food exc...[Read More] Managing Caloric Intake: Tips for Nutrition and Weight Loss
Why Am I Slim but Have a Big Belly? Understanding Body Fat Distribution
I am thin, yet I have a large belly? Hello, doctor. I have read the previous articles and searched online for methods and articles about losing belly fat, but I still have some doubts and hope you can help me clarify. I am a person with a lean body, standing at 175 cm and weighin...
Dr. Cai Xiuwen Reply:
Hello! Actually, abdominal circumference is not necessarily all fat, but the abdomen is indeed the hardest area to exercise. Prolonged sitting without activity can easily lead to fat accumulation in the abdominal area! Generally speaking, if subcutaneous fat can be pinched into a...[Read More] Why Am I Slim but Have a Big Belly? Understanding Body Fat Distribution
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
Essential Nutrients for Tech Workers: A Guide for Women
How to supplement nutrition (for the tech industry work schedule) For individuals working in the tech industry with long hours, irregular sleep patterns, and occasional sleep deprivation, it's important to focus on a balanced intake of essential nutrients. For women, the fol...
Dr. Cai Xiuwen Reply:
Hello! Essentially, the most important nutrients are the three macronutrients: carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. These are the primary nutrients that impact health. When there is a significant imbalance in these three macronutrients (for example, if one primarily consumes staple...[Read More] Essential Nutrients for Tech Workers: A Guide for Women
Healthy Eating Tips for Moms: Managing Weight and Health Issues
To ensure mother's health? My mother is 63 years old, 158 cm tall, weighs 80 kg, and has a waist circumference of over 90 cm. She has large and fatty thighs, abdominal obesity, and has been diagnosed with hypertension for which she has been taking diuretics prescribed by her...
Dr. Cai Xiuwen Reply:
Hello! Based on your description, it is understood that due to currently low activity levels, central obesity is easily developed. For hypertension and osteoporosis, in addition to dietary control, lifestyle changes play a significant role. Therefore, it is recommended to adjust ...[Read More] Healthy Eating Tips for Moms: Managing Weight and Health Issues