ASK THE DOCTOR
QIs the ketogenic diet, where you eat very few carbs, suitable for people with type 2 diabetes? I’ve heard it can help balance blood sugar levels. J.M.,Vic. There is evidence for beneficial effects of a short-term ketogenic diet over a conventional lowcarbohydrate diet in diabetic people who are obese. However, some people should not attempt this diet, including pregnant or breastfeeding women, people with kidney disease, people on diabetes medication and the elderly. You would need to be under strict medical and dietician supervision because the ketogenic diet can significantly lower blood glucose levels and may led to “hypos” and some nutrient deficiencies.
QI have heard that going to a GP with mental health concerns means you may not get life insurance. Is this the case? V.T., SA.
The consultation with your doctor is confidential. However, if you apply for life insurance, the insurance company will usually require you to sign a release of your medical information. Depending on your history, they may then impose loadings or exclusions. If you don’t disclose your history and later make a claim, it may be declined. Beyondblue.org.au has published a paper on discrimination, mental health and the insurance industry.
QWhat causes bunions? And is there any way to slow or stop them? G.P., NSW. Bunions result from years of abnormal motion and pressure on the joint at the base of the big toe, forcing the big toe to bend toward the other toes. This causes a sometimes painful bump at the site of the joint.
You will need to avoid poorly fitting shoes and high heels. Individualised orthotics may help to delay the progression and relieve pain.
QIs it true that food intolerances become more pronounced during menopause, as hormonal changes can lower tolerance levels? M.H., SA.
Many women find that certain foods exacerbate their symptoms, particularly hot flushes, night sweats and irritability. Alcohol is the main culprit along with sugary or spicy foods and caffeine. Interestingly, the intensity of hot flushes is more severe in women with untreated coeliac disease.
QI am 65 and would like to know what the current recommendations are for how much exercise I should do each day. B.M., Vic.
Find a range of activities you enjoy that will give you aerobic (30 to 60 minutes a day), strength and balance training (two to three times a week), and flexibility (yoga, Tai Chi, stretching). The intensity will depend on your general medical condition and fitness level. An exercise physiologist or physiotherapist can help.