Case Study: Sweeteners and kCalorie Control

Frank P. is a 48-year-old landscape architect who is concerned about his recent weight gain. He is 69 inches tall and weighs 202 pounds. His usual weight is 190 pounds. Mr. P reports that-due to his busy schedule-he often skips breakfast or stops for a donut and coffee with sugar on his way to work in the morning. He frequently eats out with clients for lunch and eats dinner at home with his wife most evenings. His favorite nighttime snack is ice cream, but he has found that, as he has aged, the treat results in bloating, abdominal discomfort, and diarrhea. He reports sometimes feeling tired and hungry during his work day, which he says is relieved by eating a candy bar or drinking a canned cola beverage. He reports no dietary restrictions, although he states he avoids products which contain high-fructose corn syrup and prefers to use products sweetened with sugar.

1. The symptoms Frank reports in conjunction with eating ice cream are most consistent with what condition? Briefly explain how that condition occurs.

2. Which foods are sources of added sugars in Frank's diet?

3. What strategies could help Frank decrease his intake of calories from added sugars?

4. If Frank wants to lose weight, why is it important for him to choose high-fiber carbohydrate foods in his diet?

5. How might alternative sweeteners benefit Frank's weight loss efforts? How would you advise him on the safe use of these sweeteners?

6. What advice would you give Frank on his use of sugar versus high-fructose corn syrup?

7. Based on his lifestyle pattern, devise a one-day meal plan for Frank that is lower in added sugar and calories.