Healthy Eating and Weight Loss

Answers for your specific questions.

Wondering about your health? Confused by what you’ve read? Browse our Ask the Nurse answer archive to find answers to many women's health questions and concerns. All answers are from a Cleveland Clinic women's health nurse.

Ask the Nurse Archive

Are weight loss supplements safe?

March 4, 2014 at 10:21pm

What is your take on the popular supplements such as Plexus Slim, Skinny Fiber, and Limu for weight loss and optimal health?

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Worried About Glucose Fasting Level

February 19, 2014 at 10:44am

Over the last 12 months I have had fasting glucose levels of 98 and 97. Although, this is within the recommended normal range, I noticed it is not far below the limit of 100.

I am 5’8" and weigh 145 pounds. I eat healthy - I think. I hardly ever eat red meat and stick to fiber rich breads. I also try to exercise two to three times a week for 30 minutes, mostly on the treadmill or a walking exercise class. There are times, of course, that this may be less, but I know I need to work on that. I do like my wine in the evenings, but not every night.

What can I do to keep my glucose better in check? I would feel better if the fasting level was lower.

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Alcohol and Weight Gain

February 10, 2014 at 11:16am

I have two glasses of wine as my happy hour at home. I put my feet up and relax. Is this bad considering I’m trying to lose weight?

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A Cancer Diet

January 29, 2014 at 4:20pm

I have a friend who has to consume more protein because she has been fighting cancer and getting chemotherapy. She is tired of shakes and smoothies, but her esophagus is damaged and has to be stretched often, so she needs to be careful of eating certain types of meat.

I know what items contain protein, but I wonder if there is a trick I could use with recipes - something to make food more palatable. Thank you.

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Hysterectomy and Weight Gain

December 31, 2013 at 7:12am

I have a question about HRT and severe weight gain. I had a full hysterectomy one year ago. I am age 45 now and I have gained nearly 30 pounds. I am on the highest dose of the Vivelle dot patch.

I work out 5-6 days a week, running between 3-5 miles every day. I eat about 1600 calories a day. I have always been about 130-135 pounds and am 5’7", but now I am about 163 pounds.

My workouts are strenuous, and I run trails and do about 9-10 minute miles. Never before have I had trouble dropping fuve pounds by increasing my workouts and being diligent with eating healthy, small portions. I csannot drop one pound no matter how hard I work out. My diet needs to remain the same for I need the fuel for my workouts.

Have I gained weight because I have no ovaries? Or is the patch making me fat? My body has never been like this and I am so physically uncomfortable. I will make an appointment to see my doctor, but in the meantime, I need your help as today I gained another pound. Please help!

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Weight Loss During Menopause

November 26, 2013 at 4:27pm

I’m officially in menopause and gaining weight. What are some strategies for weight loss that will work for me now?

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Too Much Protein in my Diet?

November 13, 2013 at 9:58am

I am a 63 year old white female in excellent health. I drink a powdered, protein supplement in 12 ounces of 1 percent milk daily. Should I be concerned about too much protein in my diet?

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Healthy Digestive Tract

September 20, 2013 at 1:42pm

What are some tips for keeping my digestive tract healthy?

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Tips to Lose Belly Fat

June 11, 2013 at 10:53am

I had a partial hysterectomy and now most of my weight is in my midsection. Is it possible to lose belly fat and make my stomach flat again? What exercises can I do to get rid of the extra weight?

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Cellulite

April 18, 2013 at 9:56am

Is there any possible way to get rid of cellulite on legs, mostly inner thighs and the front of my thighs? I am at a healthy weight for my height and run almost every day. What are my options?

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