House Calls

House Calls Started This Year

House calls are meant for patients who are temporarily or permanently home bound, or for other good reasons can't make it into the office.

To schedule a house call: Tel (203) 853-1919; email istaw@drstaw.com

Friday, November 8, 2013

Curb Your Sweets

I need not tell you the dangers of dietary sweets/sugars, especially if you have, or are at risk for, diabetes. Here are some hints for curbing your sweet-craving:

  • Start the day with a balanced meal of protein, vegetables (yes, vegetables for breakfast) and complex carbohydrates. This will allow your blood sugar to rise slowly and gradually, as it should, and avoid a “sugar rush.”
  • Avoid eating “light bread” made of wheat flour, which is made of simple carbohydrates. Have whole wheat bread instead of light bread, sweetened crackers, white rice, or potatoes.
  • Incorporate into your meals complex carbohydrates: whole wheat products, corn, beans, peas, lentils, whole grain rice.
  • Try to eat something as frequently as every three hours, in order to not deplete your energy stores, and to avoid sugar craving. A piece of fruit or whole wheat cracker may do.
  • Get enough sleep. Tired bodies demand immediate energy in the form of simple carb’s.
  • Have some sun exposure. Avoid staying in dark environments most day (as you may do in the office). Lack of sun exposure causes a decrease in serum serotonin, which causes relative depression and an increase in sugar craving. A little bit of Chocolate (70% cocoa, please) will increase serotonin level, and may elevate the mood.
  • A boring lifestyle, associated with low serotonin, drives sweet craving. So keep busy. Exercise, yoga, or spending  quality time with someone will help a lot.
  • You don’t have to totally abstain from sweets. Have a measured amount of your favorite candy periodically – every day, two days, or a week. Don’t eat it all at once, leave some for tomorrow.
Have a great day, without the sweets...

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