Image provided by: University of Oregon Libraries; Eugene, OR
About The Siuslaw news. (Florence, Lane County, Or.) 1960-current | View Entire Issue (Nov. 5, 2016)
8 B SIUSLAW NEWS | SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2016 TO YOUR GOOD HEALTH Is Counting Calories ‘Old-School’ Dieting? DEAR DR. ROACH: I am a 68-year-old man, 5-feet-10-inches tall and weighing 223 pounds. Last January, my weight was up to 247, so I decided to diet and exercise in order to lose the excess. My goal is to get below 200. In a recent visit to my physician, I told him that I was losing weight by restricting my total calories to 1,700 per day on a seven-day run- ning average (so I can go out to eat once in a while). I am trying to keep my fats below 30 percent on a seven-day calorie basis, and I am trying to keep total carbs to 50 percent or so. My physician told me that my diet plan was “old-school.” He said that I should eliminate all sugars and all grains. I should eat a couple of ounces of meat and/or eggs. And SALOME’S STARS ARIES (March 21 to April 19) Some changes might seem confusing at fi rst, especially to an Aries whose impa- tience levels are pretty shaky this week. Take it one step at a time, Lamb, and soon all will be made clear. TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) That diffi cult situation you’ve been dealing with continues to call for careful han- dling. Avoid quickly made choices that might not stand up when they’re fi nally put to the test. GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) You still have lots of evaluating to do before you can consider making a commit- ment. It’s better to move cautiously than to risk stumbling into a major misunderstanding. CANCER (June 21 to July 22) A previously peevish partner offers to be I should eat as many fruits and veg- etables as I want without worrying about calories. In your opinion, should I follow his advice, or should I continue with what has been working for me? -- J.B. ANSWER: Your physician is right that counting calories is “old- school.” However, if you can stay with it, it will work. If you expend more calories than you take in, you will lose weight. That is the energy balance equation, and there are no exceptions. However, the issue isn’t so straightforward as you might think from that statement. Fat and protein make almost everybody feel more full and satisfi ed, comparing meals of the same calories, than a high- carbohydrate meal. Plain, fresh fruits and vegetables, absent of dips or sauces that load on the calories, are low in calories, in most cases, and can be eaten in relatively large amounts without slowing weight loss much. I also agree with your physician that simple sugars and processed grains add calories without a lot of real nutrition and don’t fi ll you up much (and may even make you hun- grier later). I don’t think all grains need to be avoided: The fi ber pres- ent in whole grains also improves satiety, and I recommend that all grains be whole grains. However, some people fi nd that eliminating grain entirely helps them. By all means, you can stick with what works for you. That being said, most people fi nd that by add- ing a little healthy protein and fat, you can stick with your eating plan with less hunger or discomfort. Losing weight can make people feel a little uncomfortable. But I think you will fi nd that the eating plan he outlined, while still keeping an eye on calories, will allow you to reach your weight goals and keep you on track while still feeling well. DEAR DR. ROACH: Can you place plastics in the dishwasher? I have read that dangerous chemicals can be released from the plastic. -- R.E. ANSWER: Most plastics are safe, but you should put only plas- tics labeled “dishwasher safe” in the dishwasher, and placing on the top rack reduces the heat the plastic is subjected to. Never reuse any plas- tic that has been partially melted by dishwasher or microwave. more helpful with your problems. But remember: The fi nal choice is yours. Be guided by what you feel is the right thing to do. LEO (July 23 to August 22) As the Big Cat, you sometimes can be pretty rough on those you suspect of betrayal. The best advice is to pull in those claws and listen to the explanation. It might surprise you. VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) Your inner voice usually guides you well. But a note of caution: This is a period of mixed signals for you, so be careful that you don’t misunderstand the messages you’re getting. LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) Cupid’s call beckons both single Librans looking for a new love, as well as couples hoping to strengthen their relationships. A workplace problem is quickly resolved. SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) It’s been a hectic time for you, and you might want to take a break to restore both body and soul. You’ll then be set to face new challenges later this month. SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) It’s a good idea to take a more conservative approach to your fi nancial situation right now. Some plans made earlier this year might need readjusting. CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) This is a fi ne time to move boldly into those new opportunities I promised would open up for you. Check them over, and then choose the best one for you. AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) Congratulations. Your self-assurance is growing stronger, and you should now feel more confi dent about making that long-deferred deci- sion about a possible commitment. PISCES (February 19 to March 20) You’re very close to reaching your goal. But be wary of distractions that can lure you off-course and leave you stranded far away from where you really want to be. Siuslaw N ews ! AD IT DAY E R TO www. the siuslawnews.com E -E DITION • S PORTS • T OP S TORIES • O BITUARIES • W EATHER • F ORUMS • B LOGS
