The Starch Solution for losing weight.

StarSong said:
Most Americans (and possibly Canadians) eat garnet yams and call them sweet potatoes. At least that's my experience. I don't favor white sweet potatoes so don't buy them.

Apparently, worldwide there are numerous varieties of both sweet potatoes and yams.
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I’ve been calling them yams for years when they are actually sweet potatoes. They certainly taste sweet. They really make a great meal.

Today I made some delicious lentil soup. What made this soup stand out is the combination of spices and lemon rind and juice added at the end. Here’s a link to the soup. The lemon zest is fabulous in it.
Lentil Soup (seriously amazing!)

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I know Starsong is a plant based eater and now so am I and I’m thrilled with it.

Eating a plant based diet is way easier than I thought it would be and WAY cheaper. Another plus I’ve noticed is body odour. Eating a plant based diet is way cleaner. That’s a HUGE plus for me.

Note: I’m losing weight too and never hungry. Yayyyyy!
 

PeppermintPatty said:
Well, this starchy diet is NOT for me. It has unfavourable side effects. I am just going to eat everything in moderation from this point on.
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What happened , @PeppermintPatty ? If you are having bad side effects, maybe it is how much or how little you are eating of some foods, and you just need to adjust it to work for you ?

I have been looking for something to snack now and then, and I just realized that plain air-popped popcorn with some nutritional yeast will work for a snack and be on the SS eating plan; so I found a small air-popper on Amazon and ordered it.

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Happyflowerlady said:
What happened , @PeppermintPatty ? If you are having bad side effects, maybe it is how much or how little you are eating of some foods, and you just need to adjust it to work for you ?

I have been looking for something to snack now and then, and I just realized that plain air-popped popcorn with some nutritional yeast will work for a snack and be on the SS eating plan; so I found a small air-popper on Amazon and ordered it.

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It’s kind of embarrassing to say.
I got ridiculously constipated and that rarely happens. The only time in my life that’s ever happened was when I was on pain killers after having broken bones.

I think the lack of oils will do that. I generally use olive oil quite liberately. Most of my eating is Mediterranean style so this no oil really got to me.

When I first heard of the diet ; eating all starches to lose weight, a red flag went off. In most nutritional diet books they warn against too many calories from saturated foods and eating too many carbohydrates. This diet is the opposite.

Anyway, I’m not planning on following any diet. The medication I’m on causes big weight changes. It increases appetite tenfold. I have a hard time accepting that and really dislike the added weight I’ve gained but I’d rather have that than be constipated.

I’ll go back to intermittent fasting and moderate portions of food. I’ve had to stop doing yoga since I hurt my arm. It’s still hurt.
 
That is too bad, @PeppermintPatty. It might be just not enough greens and non-starchy foods causing the problem. Even on my potato days, I am having greens now, and I think that if I didn’t have anything except potatoes, it might cause digestive problems.
Even adding in some oil with the SS plan might make a difference for you, or a green smoothie with some fresh fruit.
 
Happyflowerlady said:
That is too bad, @PeppermintPatty. It might be just not enough greens and non-starchy foods causing the problem. Even on my potato days, I am having greens now, and I think that if I didn’t have anything except potatoes, it might cause digestive problems.
Even adding in some oil with the SS plan might make a difference for you, or a green smoothie with some fresh fruit.
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Thanks HFL! I WAS eating salads and plenty of vegetables. I only use 2 teaspoons of olive oil while eating my air fried potatoes and had no problems before. I’ll work something out I’m sure. Maybe even go back to having smoothies. My immersion blender showed up today which is a real game changer.
 
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PeppermintPatty said:
I got ridiculously constipated and that rarely happens.
I think the lack of oils will do that.
too many calories from saturated foods and eating too many carbohydrates.
The medication I’m on causes big weight changes. It increases appetite tenfold.
I WAS eating salads and plenty of vegetables.
I only use 2 teaspoons of olive oil while eating my air fried potatoes and had no problems before.
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What you've been eating doesn't sound like a high complex carbohydrate diet.
You probably got constipated from the olive oil, the drugs, and maybe too much fiber.
Natural complex carbohydrates are usually low in fats, and saturated fats are not carbohydrates.

Personally I never use any oil or any other type of fat in any food that I eat.
Natural unprocessed carbohydrates are foods like sweet potatoes, beans, bananas, chickpeas etc.
Salads and vegetables are okay but are usually low in complex carbohydrates and can be too high in fiber.

In addition, cleaning out the digestive system of accumulated buildups takes time.
What periodically has worked for me is doing a pure water enema once a day when on a diet cleanup program.
 
John cycling said:
What you've been eating doesn't sound like a high complex carbohydrate diet.
You probably got constipated from the olive oil, the drugs, and maybe too much fiber.
Natural complex carbohydrates are usually low in fats, and saturated fats are not carbohydrates.

Personally I never use any oil or any other type of fat in any food that I eat.
Natural unprocessed carbohydrates are foods like sweet potatoes, beans, bananas, chickpeas etc.
Salads and vegetables are okay but are usually low in complex carbohydrates and can be too high in fiber.

In addition, cleaning out the digestive system of accumulated buildups takes time.
What periodically has worked for me is doing a pure water enema once a day when on a diet cleanup program.
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High starch IS high carbohydrates. I’m definitely NoT getting constipated from olive oil. My diet closely resembles a Mediterranean diet which uses a lot of olive oil. If it WAS olive oil doing this, I would have been constipated a long time ago.

I completely understand that saturated fats are not carbohydrates. Not meaning to be arrogant but I have a degree in health science. I’m a retired nutritionist.

I’ve been a huge salad eater most of my life so DO understand that salads aren’t the problem and I do know my body much better than you do. Without getting too graphic here, I can tell the difference between my body cleaning itself out and constipation and they are complete opposites.

If my dogs have diarrhea , I give them chicken and rice. ( protein, and starch) The starch helps bind up their stools.

I’ve been on these drugs since last May. If it were the drugs I would have been having this problem 11 months ago but haven’t.
 
PeppermintPatty said:
High starch IS high carbohydrates. I’m definitely NoT getting constipated from olive oil. My diet closely resembles a Mediterranean diet which uses a lot of olive oil. If it WAS olive oil doing this, I would have been constipated a long time ago.

I completely understand that saturated fats are not carbohydrates. Not meaning to be arrogant but I have a degree in health science. I’m a retired nutritionist.

I’ve been a huge salad eater most of my life so DO understand that salads aren’t the problem and I do know my body much better than you do. Without getting too graphic here, I can tell the difference between my body cleaning itself out and constipation and they are complete opposites.

If my dogs have diarrhea , I give them chicken and rice. ( protein, and starch) The starch helps bind up their stools.

I’ve been on these drugs since last May. If it were the drugs I would have been having this problem 11 months ago but haven’t.
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Not to complicate the issue of the high starch diet, but it might help clarify some issues I am having with my diet. A few months ago I was diagnosed with Lymphocytic Colitis. I got so constipated that I got a hernia while pushing. Since then I have to take a dose of MiraLax, and 1 Stool Softener" at bedtime. Any diet suggestions would help. I need something that will make my stools softer. I take Magnesium twice a day. All my other Vitamins are good. I eat heathy food, mainly balanced, a little heavy on the meat. It is some kind of bacteria I think, and it rarely goes away...( the colitis). So I am not looking for miracles, just a point in a direction that sounds promising. :)
 
Who needs people.? I wondered if "Poe" could answer my question, so i asked:

Not to complicate the issue of the high starch diet, but it might help clarify some issues I am having with my diet. A few months ago I was diagnosed with Lymphocytic Colitis. I got so constipated that I got a hernia while pushing. Since then I have to take a dose of MiraLax, and 1 Stool Softener" at bedtime. Any diet suggestions would help. I need something that will make my stools softer. I take Magnesium twice a day. All my other Vitamins are good. I eat heathy food, mainly balanced, a little heavy on the meat. It is some kind of bacteria I think, and it rarely goes away...( the colitis). So I am not looking for miracles, just a point in a direction that sounds promising.


Assistant

Poe
I'm not a doctor, but I can offer some general dietary suggestions that may help with making stools softer and managing symptoms of Lymphocytic Colitis. However, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian who can provide personalized advice based on your specific condition and medical history.

Increase fiber intake: Consuming an adequate amount of dietary fiber can help regulate bowel movements and soften stools. Include foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and nuts in your diet to increase fiber intake gradually. However, some individuals with Lymphocytic Colitis may find that high-fiber foods exacerbate their symptoms, so it's essential to monitor your body's response and adjust accordingly.

Stay hydrated: Drinking enough fluids throughout the day is crucial for maintaining bowel regularity and softening stools. Aim to drink an adequate amount of water and other hydrating beverages.

Probiotics: Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can help support gut health. Some studies have shown potential benefits of specific strains of probiotics for individuals with inflammatory bowel diseases, including colitis. Discuss with your healthcare provider about whether incorporating probiotics into your routine might be helpful for your condition.

Low-fat, low-spice diet: Some people find that reducing their intake of high-fat and spicy foods can alleviate symptoms. It may be worth experimenting with your diet to see if avoiding certain types of foods provides any relief.

Keep a food diary: Keep track of your symptoms and the foods you eat to identify any potential triggers or patterns. This can help you make informed decisions about your diet and identify any specific foods that may worsen your symptoms.

Remember, it's essential to work closely with your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian who can tailor recommendations to your specific needs. They can provide you with detailed guidance and monitor your progress to ensure you're on the right track.
 
My diet is primarily non-starchy vegetables, some fruit (usually berries) and a baked russet or sweet potato (rarely two or more) most days. This morning I had a large stir fry ("fried" in fresh, pulpy OJ), loads of mostly cruciferous and leafy green veggies, a TBSP of ground flax seed, and 1/3 cup cooked quinoa.

I often put (homemade) hummus, which has some tahini in it, on my baked potato. Sometimes I'll have a few slices of avocado. Along with the ground flax seed, those are my typical sources of daily fats. Of course, there's also whatever comes from eating a little chocolate and a few homemade cookies here and there. I otherwise avoid fats and have no problems with constipation. Between the large amounts of high-fiber vegetables and the flax seeds, my body has no difficulty keeping things moving.

This might not work for everyone - I can only attest to how it works for me.
 
Paco Dennis said:
Not to complicate the issue of the high starch diet, but it might help clarify some issues I am having with my diet. A few months ago I was diagnosed with Lymphocytic Colitis. I got so constipated that I got a hernia while pushing. Since then I have to take a dose of MiraLax, and 1 Stool Softener" at bedtime. Any diet suggestions would help. I need something that will make my stools softer. I take Magnesium twice a day. All my other Vitamins are good. I eat heathy food, mainly balanced, a little heavy on the meat. It is some kind of bacteria I think, and it rarely goes away...( the colitis). So I am not looking for miracles, just a point in a direction that sounds promising. :)
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Lots of salad and fibre should help. Use oil and vinegar dressing. Keep using your laxative. Try to avoid dairy. Dairy is VERY constipating. Try and reduce your meat and drinks lots of fresh water.

I’m painting my bathroom right now and don’t want my brushes drying out on me

Flaxseed is good to take to help regulate.
 
Paco Dennis said:
Who needs people.? I wondered if "Poe" could answer my question, so i asked:

Not to complicate the issue of the high starch diet, but it might help clarify some issues I am having with my diet. A few months ago I was diagnosed with Lymphocytic Colitis. I got so constipated that I got a hernia while pushing. Since then I have to take a dose of MiraLax, and 1 Stool Softener" at bedtime. Any diet suggestions would help. I need something that will make my stools softer. I take Magnesium twice a day. All my other Vitamins are good. I eat heathy food, mainly balanced, a little heavy on the meat. It is some kind of bacteria I think, and it rarely goes away...( the colitis). So I am not looking for miracles, just a point in a direction that sounds promising.


Assistant

Poe
I'm not a doctor, but I can offer some general dietary suggestions that may help with making stools softer and managing symptoms of Lymphocytic Colitis. However, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian who can provide personalized advice based on your specific condition and medical history.

Increase fiber intake: Consuming an adequate amount of dietary fiber can help regulate bowel movements and soften stools. Include foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and nuts in your diet to increase fiber intake gradually. However, some individuals with Lymphocytic Colitis may find that high-fiber foods exacerbate their symptoms, so it's essential to monitor your body's response and adjust accordingly.

Stay hydrated: Drinking enough fluids throughout the day is crucial for maintaining bowel regularity and softening stools. Aim to drink an adequate amount of water and other hydrating beverages.

Probiotics: Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can help support gut health. Some studies have shown potential benefits of specific strains of probiotics for individuals with inflammatory bowel diseases, including colitis. Discuss with your healthcare provider about whether incorporating probiotics into your routine might be helpful for your condition.

Low-fat, low-spice diet: Some people find that reducing their intake of high-fat and spicy foods can alleviate symptoms. It may be worth experimenting with your diet to see if avoiding certain types of foods provides any relief.

Keep a food diary: Keep track of your symptoms and the foods you eat to identify any potential triggers or patterns. This can help you make informed decisions about your diet and identify any specific foods that may worsen your symptoms.

Remember, it's essential to work closely with your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian who can tailor recommendations to your specific needs. They can provide you with detailed guidance and monitor your progress to ensure you're on the right track.
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Considering you have that neuropathy issue, reducing meat, in general should help a LOT. You might be best off having a big salad with chunks of meat so that your meat to vegetable ratio works in your favour.

Meat, itself is VERY inflammatory so reducing your meat consumption should greatly help.
Eating more anti inflammatory foods and greatly reducing dairy should help immensely.

Adding fresh fruits will also be beneficial but eat them on their own.

I think the main things to try and change is your meat consumption. Look up anti inflammatory foods/ diet
Meat is very inflammatory and WILL cause pain. Remember that inflammation affects your blood vessels big time.

Drinking alcohol should be reduced also. Alcohol is VERY dehydrating and inflammatory. It might temporarily make you feel better but in the long run, it’s VERY bad, especially for what you have.

Summary
-less meat
-less dairy
-less alcohol
-less sugary desserts

-more non starchy vegetables
-more water
-more fruit
 
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Dr. McDougall passed away peacefully in his sleep earlier this week. Passing at 77 can appear a short or average lifespan until one considers the catastrophic stroke he suffered at age 18, leaving him with a lifelong disability and prompting him to study medicine and eventually nutrition.

Thanks for your work body of work, Dr. McDougall, and for so freely sharing it with the public. May you rest in peace, knowing you changed many people's lives and health for the better.
 
StarSong said:
Congratulations and Well Done @Happyflowerlady!
...... Seeing your post is another great reminder of how well my body runs on a whole food plant based diet.

I think I need to find some new cookbooks... have you tried any that you like well enough to recommend?
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I've been eating only plant based meals for about 25 years now and don't really have to watch my weight so I completely agree that our bodies run well on a WFPB diet.

As to cook books, don't waste your money. Instead, start looking at Youtube videos. You get to see how they do it and there's always a link to their website where the recipe is written out. Look up Rainbow Plant Life for one channel. She makes wonderful dishes that have Indian origins.

I'd provide a link to my recent favourite of hers but when I tried, for some reason, the video only shows up as 'video unavailable'. Can anyone suggest what the problem is? Is it because this forum is American and I'm in Canada so that feature isn't accessible?
 
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Tom 86 said:
When I went to a Keto diet dr. several years ago. She told me to stop all pieces of bread, but eat potatoes with REAL BUTTER on them, NO salt, so I use a lot of pepper. Also, she said I can eat all the bacon I wanted. I did lose weight on her diet.
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Just a bit of trivia for you to keep in mind, bacon is listed alongside asbestos and cigarettes as a carcinogen. It's definitely not good for you and for your doctor to tell you that it's okay to eat as much as you want, is just a testament to how little doctors understand food.
 
Debrah N. said:
I've been eating only plant based meals for about 25 years now and don't really have to watch my weight so I completely agree that our bodies run well on a WFPB diet.

As to cook books, don't waste your money. Instead, start looking at Youtube videos. You get to see how they do it and there's always a link to their website where the recipe is written out. Look up Rainbow Plant Life for one channel. She makes wonderful dishes that have Indian origins.

I'd provide a link to my recent favourite of hers but when I tried, for some reason, the video only shows up as 'video unavailable'. Can anyone suggest what the problem is? Is it because this forum is American and I'm in Canada so that feature isn't accessible?
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Thanks for the tip - I've been eating WFPB for ten years now. Started off vegan, shifted to WFPB, then added more starches based on Dr. McD's advice. I've gotten pretty good at adapting former favorite recipes that included meat or cheese to WFPB.

Rainbow Plant Life is available on US YouTube. Which of her recipes would you recommend?
 
Debrah N. said:
I've been eating only plant based meals for about 25 years now and don't really have to watch my weight so I completely agree that our bodies run well on a WFPB diet.

As to cook books, don't waste your money. Instead, start looking at Youtube videos. You get to see how they do it and there's always a link to their website where the recipe is written out. Look up Rainbow Plant Life for one channel. She makes wonderful dishes that have Indian origins.

I'd provide a link to my recent favourite of hers but when I tried, for some reason, the video only shows up as 'video unavailable'. Can anyone suggest what the problem is? Is it because this forum is American and I'm in Canada so that feature isn't accessible?
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I love Rainbow Plant Life!
I agree with you on watching YouTube videos.
Another one I like to watch is Nutmeg Notebook.
 
StarSong said:
Thanks for the tip - I've been eating WFPB for ten years now. Started off vegan, shifted to WFPB, then added more starches based on Dr. McD's advice. I've gotten pretty good at adapting former favorite recipes that included meat or cheese to WFPB.

Rainbow Plant Life is available on US YouTube. Which of her recipes would you recommend?
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I absolutely love her Red Lentil Curry recipe. My daughter and her husband love it too and it's become a staple in our repertoire. She also has a recipe for Vegetarian Chili that is excellent.
 
Debrah N. said:
I absolutely love her Red Lentil Curry recipe. My daughter and her husband love it too and it's become a staple in our repertoire. She also has a recipe for Vegetarian Chili that is excellent.
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Good to know and thanks for that. I just printed out both recipes! When the weather turns a bit cooler I'll give them a try. The red lentil curry looks especially good!
 
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