This is definitely one of those topics that only gets more confusing the more you read. So, you need to have a philosophy about it and fit each new bit of information into your overall framework. That way, you're not constantly reeling from 'no carbs' to 'low fat' to 'grapefruits only' to whatever is in. Among physicians, there isn't any consensus about what is best for you. The only thing we can probably agree on is that no one diet suits everyone. In this section, over time, we hope to provide enough helpful information so you can make healthful decisions on your own.
In a nutshell, my philosophy is that fruits, vegetables, and whole grains should make up most of your intake. Lean protein such as fish, chicken, turkey or tofu, nuts, lentils. and beans should comprise the rest. The most important to me is eating 'whole foods' as they come out of the ground and limiting processed foods as much as possible. The food industry has studied and perfected combining the most tempting, and at times addictive, combinations of fat, salt, and sugar in restaurant and supermarket offerings. They know how to keep you coming back for more.
Varying what you eat can keep your meals interesting. I aim to include 'superfoods' such as spinach, tomatoes, pumpkin, blueberries, and hemp seed, which I think are delicious. Experiment with foods that contain antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E, lycopene (think tomatoes), and beta-carotene (pumpkin and carrots). These and many others are beneficial when eaten in 'whole foods' but not when taken in pill form.
Of course, not one nutrition plan suits everyone, since food preferences or intolerance and medical issues must be considered.
But for the majority of people, if you eat whole foods and nourish your body and soul with a wholesome variety of nutritious foods, your mind and body will thank you. Often, people don't realize that fatigue, insomnia, depression, and other issues are closely tied to what we eat. In our posts in this section, we'll provide some practical information and keep you posted on the latest and greatest in nutrition news. Send us your questions!
What’s New in the Brain: Update in Neurology from the American College of Physicians Annual Meeting 2014
Last week I had the privilege of attending the ACP Annual Meeting where 10,000 internists from the United States and the international community meet to attend talks on the state of the latest in the field. Dr. Martin A. Samuels, the Chairman of Neurology at Harvard Medical School, summarized some the major findings in Neurology…
Trekking to Myanmar’s Clinics: Diary of a Medical Missionary — The Beginning
I have always been one of those who gets confused about the concept of my life being operated by a “master plan” that is inescapable as my religious friends (even some family members) have tried in vain to explain to me. How does such a master plan work? Some say you can’t escape what was…
On To Myanmar – My First Medical Mission
Editor’s note: Thu left last week for Myanmar after writing this lighthearted piece; read further to get to the medical deficiencies there. She is working extremely hard with little sleep, but is doing well and will be posting updates in the next week or so. Friends, This is NOT a farewell email, just one to…
All Joy and No Fun: The Paradox of Modern Parenting by Jennifer Senior Published by Harper Collins, 2014
Have you ever wondered what influence children have on parents? Every book I have read about parenting was always about how to be a better parent and how to influence children for the better. This book illustrates many of the effects that children have on parents through each stage of life. It discusses research on…
Are You a Supermom?
Two weeks ago, needing a Hepatitis A vaccine injection, I went to the office of Dr. O’Connor, a family practitioner in Rockville and a fellow boot camper. At the end of March, I will join a group of physicians from the Washington DC area for a two week medical mission in Myanmar, my first medical…
Group Exercise and the Evolution of Friendship
With great interest, I read Jody’s last blog before the new year on how people quickly forget about their new year resolutions. I am one of them! During the holidays season, my office was bombarded with sweet treats from patients and, before I know it, I must have gained about five pounds. It might not seem to be…
“How Children Succeed: Grit, Curiosity, and the Hidden Power of Character” by Paul Tough
Why do some children escape a difficult childhood and become successful adults? Why do others end up in prison or stuck in a cycle of poverty? This fascinating book summarizes stories of children growing up in diverse socioeconomic situations, explores research on factors leading to success and failure academically and in life. As a follow up to my…
Is Your Exercise ‘Working’ For you? Fitness Series, Cardiovascular Part B
What a bummer it would be if all of the sweat, time and muscle soreness were for naught! On the heels of the Cross Fit article submitted by Rebecca Katz on Lady Docs Corner Café last month, a very important question is raised… “Is my exercise routine providing me with a benefit and making me…
Low Tech Medicine Trumps Higher Tech Website
Fortunately, in the office practice of medicine, we rely on many low tech procedures — talking with patients, listening with our stethoscopes and running blood tests. When we move to more sophisticated functions, there is a greater likelihood of having technical difficulties – as with this website. For the past few weeks, we have been…
A Patient’s Perspective at a Medical Conference
I was diagnosed with CLL, Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia more than 7 ½ years ago. Despite one relapse three years later, I’ve lived a normal life. I’ve continued to teach communications skills domestically and abroad. I have traveled extensively overseas to a dozen countries and joyously witnessed our older son’s marriage in November. Nonetheless, when a…