Several Issues make it hard to lose weight

Question
Hi Kimberly:

I am a 34 yr. old who has IBS and is also Lactose Intolerant.  I am also on Coumadin for life due to a recent blood clot and Factor V Leiden diagnosis.  I have gained some weight over the last 6 months.  I am 5 foot and weigh 150 lbs.  I am having difficulties trying to lose weight.  I usually stick with foods that tend to not irritate the IBS...I try to eat healthy but with all the issues I have it makes it challenging.

I would like to lose 30 lbs. I recently started exercising again but meal planning is difficult. I don't eat red meat or fish.  Is there some way to plan healthy meals and eat healthy at work...I'm there for about 10 -11 hours/day.  I have to watch the leafy greens. I do eat some soy products like soy milk, tofu and others. I cannot drink regular milk but I eat cheese if I take a Lactaid first.  

Answer
Jennifer,
You can definitely still eat healthy.  You just have to look at the foods that you CAN eat and go from there.  Start with the meats: you don't eat red meat or fish but white meat such as chicken or turkey breast and lean pork are healthy.  Good substitutes include the soy products, beans, egg whites, etc...  With fruits and vegetables make a list of the ones you CAN tolerate and stick to those.  Cooking vegetables is sometimes easier on the IBS than eating them raw.  Choose the dairy products that you CAN tolerate like low fat cheese, or yogurt.  Many people with lactose intolerance can tolerate yogurt!  With lactose intolerance you need to see WHAT you can tolerate and many can tolerate dairy products in small amounts and WITH other foods.  
The exercise will be very helpful! Also, begin to watch your portion sizes and don't forget your water!

I DO offer individualized online services that may benefit you!  One I have that may be very helpful are individualized menus that I develop.  I would take all of your likes, dislikes, intolerances, work schedule, etc... and develop menus especially for you.  These can be great to help you start thinking along the lines of eating healthier and losing weight.  We can even do a calorie, reducing menu for you since you want to lose weight.  If you are interested either email me at [email protected] or visit my web site at: www.Nutrifocus.net.  Let me know if you have any questions about my services!
Thanks and good luck,
Kim Tessmer, RD LD  

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