Are carbohydrates making me fat?

Consuming carbohydrates will increase your blood sugar level, temporarily. This is a normal response to eating. An elevation in blood sugar will cause your pancreas to release more insulin into your blood stream. This, too, is normal. The insulin will help to bring blood sugar back into a normal range. Your level of aerobic activity partially determines how much carbohydrate you can eat. By eating carbohydrates you will not become fat. Eating when we are not hungry and ignoring our hunger and fullness signals is what may lead to weight gain.

I have heart problems, should I be a vegetarian?

A plant-based diet has many benefits, including improving cholesterol levels, but it is not absolutely necessary if you have heart concerns. It is important to decrease your saturated fat intake (butter, margarine, creamy salad dressings, etc.) and add healthier monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats into your diet. 

Can herbs have effect on the medication I am talking?

Always let your physician know of any herbal remedies you are taking or plan to take. 

Some herbs can have an effect on the absorption of medications.

I crave salt. What would be a good snack?

Theories for increased cravings for salty foods in women (especially 2 weeks prior to their periods) could be effected by the female hormone estrogen on the andiuretic hormones, vasopressin and aldosterone, which cause fluid retention. To reprogram taste buds research has shown to snack on crunchy, non-salty foods (jicama, bell peppers, carrots), as well as drink a glass of iced water and wait 15 minutes for the craving to subside.

What happens to my blood sugar if I consume caffeine?

Everyone reacts to caffeine differently. Caffeine has been shown in the short term to increase both glucose and insulin levels; however, there are limited studies and more research needs to be done.

What happens to my metabolism and blood sugar when I skip a meal?

Skipping a meal, or meals, over time results in developing a chronically slow metabolism. This may also result in eating larger, unbalanced meals and eating more. Small, frequent meals help maintain a healthy metabolism, but eating three meals per day at regular intervals also helps maintain a healthy metabolism. This can also result in eating slower and you may surprise yourself by eating less!

Why do I hear that I should mix protein and carbs?

Having this mixture can stabilize blood sugar for three to four hours, leading to increased satiety. If you have diabetes, it is very important to mix protein and carbs to help sustain blood sugar.

Is it necessary to have a diet containing carbohydrates, protein and fat?

For optimal health, one must have a diet that contains carbohydrates, proteins and fats. Amounts of each nutrient may vary slightly for each individual, based on age, activity, weight and the presence of chronic disease. Carbohydrates are necessary as they are your body's main source of energy. Protein is important for growth and repair. Fat provides energy, improves satiety and helps absorb other nutrients.

Can I still eat red meat while following heart healthy guidelines?

Red meat can be implemented into a heart healthy diet about two times per week. 

Recommended lean cuts include: “loin” or “round” or ground beef that is at least 93% lean.