Allyphoe—you’re correct about the strategy to lower bad (LDL) cholesterol and increase good (HDL) cholesterol. The American Heart Association recommends limiting saturated fat (animal sources) to less than 7% of total calories and trans fats (fats found in processed foods and baked goods) to less than 1% of total calories. Some other lifestyle recommendations include: maintain a healthy weight, stop smoking, incorporate regular physical activity, no or moderate alcohol intake (1/day for women and 2/day for men), increase fiber though fruits, veggies and whole grains, reduce sodium intake and enjoy fish 2/week. Visit the American Heart Association at American Heart Association for more information.

Maleficent—it would be difficult to totally avoid processed foods because these foods are convenient and time-savers in today’s busy world. Canned, frozen or dried food companies have mastered the technology to maintain the nutrients during the actual processing. These foods allow you have a greater variety in the diet. Also, some products offer low-sodium or low-fat options. Be sure you compare products and make educated choices as you select your foods. When possible, try to make the healthiest choices when limited to these foods.

please dear god dont' suggest this to anyone who works within a 20 foot radius of me -the sound of chewing gum is the most revolting sound ever... I'd burn lots of calories killing those people

Omega—gout can be a very painful type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid around the joints. Diets high in purines and proteins are suspected to increase the risk for gout, and therefore should be avoided. According to the American Medical Association, purine-containing foods include: alcoholic beverages like beer, anchovies, sardines in oil, fish roes, herring, organ meat (liver, kidneys, sweetbreads), legumes (dried beans, peas), meat extracts found in consommé and gravies, mushrooms, spinach, asparagus and cauliflower.

Good luck in your treatment.

Margaret—polycystic ovarian syndrome is caused by an imbalance of a woman’s hormones. It may bring on various symptoms like weight gain, acne, excessive hair growth, irregular periods, infertility or high glucose. A balanced heart healthy diet would be best to follow with an emphasis on evenly distributing carbohydrates at meals and snacks. If high glucose is a problem, medication and a special diet may be necessary. Your physician and registered dietitian can work with you to tailor the best plan for you.

No comment on my question?

What should we be looking at for an ideal BMI..peoples opinions in this seem to vary a lot!

Thanks for reminding me to answer your question, Steve. Leptin is a hormone that is involved in the regulation and balance of the food we eat and our body weight. When it was first identified in mice in 1994, there was great promise that increasing leptin in obese patients would produce great weight loss. Unfortunately, clinical trials proved that leptin injections in obese patients produced only a moderate weight loss. Leptin, other hormones and neuropeptides (small proteins) are involved in the brain's signaling which regulates hunger and appetite. Research continues with the goal of understanding the complex mechanism of weight regulation in humans. Stay tuned!

Molly

All,

Thank you for welcoming me into your community. I have truly enjoyed the opportunity to answer your thoughtful questions and hope that my responses help you as you work towards achieving a new you this year. You are all on the right track towards a happier, healthier lifestyle. Good luck!

Molly Gee

I disagree with the chewing gum,it has helped me over come
smoking (10 years now)and now works miracles for those late
night cravings.."BUT" I am not one of the loud jaw smackers that
your refferring to that you would like to KILL.

Yea, I well versed in the subject. I was more looking for your opinion.

Glad im not the only one, the smell of hubba bubba drives me insane also, or anything grape flavoured that smells similar :O

I would ask questions about diet and health, but umm ... i know everything already anyway ... cause im young ... and female... (j/k, i google anything i want to know)

Hi and welcome,
I just found at last week my thyroid is low and my dr. has put me on Levoxyl 50mcg --1x a day. I don't know anything about the thyroid, and was even surprised to find out it was in my neck area. Will this make it harder for me to swallow food or take meds? I have heard my whole life when they go bad they cause people to gain a lot a weight. Is this true? And can you tell me anything else about the thyroid? Any diet changes needed? Or foods to avoid?
Thanks