and the regular-no stimulants diet if it is tolerated by
the patient.
Chronic and excessive use of antacids to treat
hyperacidity and related conditions may result in
thiamin deficiency, presumably because of alkaline
destruction of thiamin within the bowel lumen.
Excessive intake of milk with antacids may cause
systemic alkalosis and hypercalcemia. Milk may be
contraindicated in patients with allergic reactions or
lactose intolerance.
LOW-CARBOHYDRATE, HIGH-PROTEIN
DIET.—A low-carbohydrate, high-protein diet is used
in the treatment of hypoglycemia. This diet limits
simple carbohydrates that are quickly absorbed into
the blood. A marked rise in blood sugar stimulates the
pancreas to overproduce insulin, which leads to a
hypoglycemic state as too much sugar is transported
out of the blood.
Individualize the diet to the patient, since
hypoglycemic reactions may occur at any time for
various reasons.
For example, meal skipping,
inadequate calorie intake with excessive energy
expenditure, and drinking alcohol may precipitate a
low-blood-sugar reaction.
The foods may be divided into three to six or more
small meals. Liberal amounts of protein and fat are
used, as they are more slowly digested and absorbed.
The diet includes meats, fish, poultry, cheese, eggs,
fats, low-starch vegetables, and limited amounts of
unsweetened fruit and juices, breads, cereals, and
high-starch-content vegetables (like corn, peas, and
potatoes). Because milk contains the sugar lactose,
limit it to 2 cups a day for an adult.
Sweets such as candy, sugar, jams, jellies, soft
drinks, and pastries should be avoided to help prevent
hypoglycemic reactions. They should be consumed
only when necessary to quickly increase blood-sugar
levels during a hypoglycemic reaction. If reactions are
frequent, it is helpful to carry hard candy for quick and
easy use. Handy high-protein snacks to help prevent
hypoglycemic reactions may include cheese, peanut
butter, milk, and hard-boiled eggs.
SUMMARY
Fulfilling the daily requirement of eating a wide
variety of foods, in the correct amounts, will contribute
directly to a healthy lifestyle.
Well-nourished
crewmembers with good health are much more able to
resist infections, are able to sleep soundly and awake
with a pleasant demeanor. By using your knowledge of
diet therapy and nutrition to train and treat your crew,
your job will be made significantly easier.
9-11
