Medical Hotline with Dr James Wright

vego—the way to go
Some wonder how a vegetarian can obtain adequate protein, minerals and vitamins. It’s not a problem: most eat an abundance of legumes, which includes peas, beans, lentils and peanuts, all of which are protein rich. They also contain fibre and minerals. The gluten or protein part of wheat and cereals is also protein rich. An enterprising cook can prepare many appetising dishes. Dairy products (preferably low fat), eggs and nuts are also a good source of nutrition. I’m a lifelong vegetarian, but also have a shot of vitamin B12 monthly.

doing it by the numbers
For a couple experiencing difficulty conceiving, it may just be a problem of timing. Periods are rhythmical, usually 28 to 30 days. The best time to achieve your goal is 14 days prior to the beginning of your period. That is the usual time of ovulation. The egg is exposed to fertilisation for 48 hours. Fortunately, this is the time when women feel most relaxed and responsive.

delayed action
Bungee jumping is an extreme sport, and while it is probably physically safe, causing no problem at the time, remember, the body is taking an enormous beating and problems may show up years later. Consider the pulling force on the joints of the lower limbs. With repetition, the strains could have an adverse effect. As I look at former champion runners, jumpers, joggers and sportspeople, I see joints that give a huge amount of trouble.

sight for sore feet
If you are unaccustomed to a lot of walking, say in a new job, your feet can become awfully tired over a shift. Don’t despair; with more activity, they’ll gradually become accustomed to the overactivity. Meantime, treat them to a daily soak in hot water for two minutes, and then plunge them into cold for 30 seconds. Repeat this for 10-15 minutes, then massage briskly. This breaks muscle spasm, improves circulation, bringing fresh blood and oxygen to the feet. Well-fitting and comfortable shoes are essential, ideally with some internal padding.

long trip risk
If you’re planning a long overseas flight (up to 24 hours sometimes), there are measures you can take to prevent clots from developing in your legs. Although the risk is tiny, recent publicity suggests you may want to take precautions. Wearing elasticised stockings helps maintain circulation in the lower limbs, reduces chances of blood pooling and thus clotting. In flight, actively move your feet at frequent intervals. Also, take a walk around the cabin when possible, and drink plenty of water (in preference to duty-free alcohol and soft drinks). Some people take half an aspirin before the flight. Use a Push Cush (available from chemists), which is a plastic device with which to exercise your feet.

big yawn
This young student says, “When sitting in a lecture at uni, I often start to yawn. Looking around, lots of the other students are doing the same. Is this a disease?” Yawning is catching, but not a disease. The lecture room after awhile may become warm and stuffy—inadequate oxygen and too much carbon dioxide from, say, 200 breathing humans. This is Nature’s inbuilt system of getting more oxygen to the brain. Cool air, good air reticulation and a bright speaker usually improves the situation.

diabotic disorder

Q: I am a diabetic, and eat sensible foods as recommended by my doctor. But a book about the GI of foods tells me differently. What’s the go?

A: All foods have a GI, which is an acronym for glycemic index—the way in which they are affected by insulin. It gives a good guide on the foods you should be eating to keep blood-glucose levels normal. In turn, this helps reduce damage to blood vessels, especially in the eye, heart, kidneys, brain and lower limbs.

Extract from Signs of the Times, July 2003.

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