Dietitian can guide you on your quest to go meat-free
Q. I have never been a big meat-eater, but my family always had it at dinnertime. Now that I am a widow and my children are married and not living at home, I would like to know what I can eat other than meat in order to get the protein and iron I need. I take a Centrum Silver vitamin every day.
A. None of us needs meat protein. We can get along beautifully with the protein contained in grains, milk and cheese. Because this issue is important to you and my space for replying is limited, I urge you to see a dietitian for a thorough analysis of your metabolism and how your needs can be met without consuming meat.
Your easiest option would be to talk with the dietitian in your community hospital or skilled-nursing facility. Ask your primary care physician to refer you if a referral is necessary.
Q. I have been to the hospital for blood testing five or six times because my potassium level is too high. What can I use or do to lower it? Is there anything I can take?
A. An increased potassium level is potentially dangerous because the mineral can cause serious heart disorders. The major causes for this condition are too much dietary potassium (prunes, raisins, bananas and orange juice), potassium supplements and kidney disease. I urge you to work with your family physician to diagnose and treat this problem. Meanwhile, stop consuming potassium-rich foods.
Q. We just became grandparents and are anxious to see the new baby. She was premature, and the doctors have advised her parents not to expose her to people with colds. When is one considered no longer contagious? My husband and I are both recovering from a cold, an especially nasty one with sore throat, sinus pressure, etc. Now that we are feeling better, I think it's OK to go see her. I occasionally cough to clear my throat, and my nose runs when I'm out in the cold. His nose occasionally runs even when he is indoors. He thinks these are indications we're still contagious. What's your opinion?
A. Upper-respiratory viral infections usually last about 10 to 14 days. After that time, if symptoms persist, the problem may have changed. Sinus infections, bronchitis or pneumonia have to be considered.
I believe that you and your husband are free of significant infection. I think you could see your granddaughter. To be on the safe side, wear a surgical mask.
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