SUMMARY

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