MOUTH ULCERS

    Commonly referred to as canker sores, mouth ulcers (or aphtous stomatitis) appear as several painful white or yellowish raised spots. In severe cases, a dozen or more may arise, either as sores scattered through the mouth or as large clusters. They tend to be acutely painful for the first few days, last about 1 to 2 weeks, and then heal without consequence. Larger ulcers may last weeks or months and may also be accompanied by fatigue, fever, and swollen lymph nodes.
    Although the cause of mouth ulcers is unknown, physicians believe that and abnormal immune response or a viral infection may be the problem. Stress or local trauma, such as from ill-fitting dentures, may precipitate an attack. In unusual cases, mouth ulcers may a symptom of a systemic disorder, like allergic reactions to foods, anemia, celiac disease, Crohn's disease, or lupus. Deficiencies of iron, vitamin B12, and folate have been associated with an increased risk of mouth ulcers; eating foods high in these nutrients may help to prevent occurrences.

CONSUME PLENTY OF 

• Lean meat, legumes, dried fruits, fortified cereals, and other high iron foods.
• Dark green leafy vegetables, wheat germ, and legumes for folate.
• Lean animal products for vitamin B12.
• During and attack, soft, bland foods.

AVOID

• Salty, spicy, and acidic foods, or any other food that worsens symptoms.
• Alcohol and very hot beverages.

DIABETES

More than 19 million North Americans have diabetes mellitus, a serious metabolic disease that affects the bodys ability to derive energy from blood sugar, or glucose. It results when the body cannot produce or properly use insulin, a hormone needed for glucose metabolism. Because all human body tissues need a steady supply of glucose, diabetes can affects every organ. In particular, it can lead to heart disease, kidney failure, blindness, and nerve problems.

EAT PLENTY OF

• Regular meals and snacks to avoid fluctuations in blood sugar levels.
• A balance of carbohydrate, protein, and fat at each meal.
• Low-fat, high-fiber, food to achieve and maintain a normal weight.

LIMIT

• "Empty calorie" foods such as sweets and snack foods, which can contribute to obesity.
• Saturated fats and foods made with hydrogenated fats.