DEAR READER: Dextrose, sucrose and glucose are all simple sugars. The primary difference between all three is in the way the body metabolizes them. Some manufacturers and packers for food-industry products prefer to use the word dextrose instead of sugar because the public is becoming more savvy and might not purchase a product if weight is an issue for them.

Dates that are dried are usually packed in sugar as a flavor enhancer. Organic or natural-food stores may have alternatives without sugar added, but as it stands, the dates you purchased aren’t allowed. Check the packaging label to verify the packaging content.

To provide related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “A Strategy for Losing Weight: An Introduction to the No Flour, No Sugar Diet.” Other readers who would like a copy should send a self-addressed stamped No. 10 envelope and a $2 check or money order payable to Newsletter and mailed to Newsletter, P.O. Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure mention the title or print an order form off my website at www.AskDrGottMD.com.

DEAR READER: Congratulations on your initial success. A weight loss of about one pound per week is average and healthful while on my no-flour, no-sugar diet.

You can eat popcorn on my diet, but be careful about what type you choose. Air-popped is the best, because it doesn’t require any fat. But if you choose to pop it in oil, olive is the best. After popping, you can sprinkle on seasonings, such as garlic powder, chili powder or even a little salt. Remember, moderation is key, especially with regard to salt intake.

DEAR READER: Oddly enough, your request is not unique. I receive inquiries every day, and my website has specific instructions for ordering. Most of my books are offered on the bottom of the “About” page, but if a reader doesn’t scroll to the bottom of the page, the section is likely missed. We are presently working on a more user-friendly site with better links that will assist readers. In any event, follow the links that will take you directly to Amazon.com. Thank you for your inquiry.

DEAR READER: You have several options. The first is to order my “A Strategy for Losing Weight: Introduction to the No Flour, No Sugar Diet.” Simply send a self-addressed stamped No. 10 envelope and a $2 check or money order to Newsletter, P.O. Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092-0167. Be sure to mention the title or print an order form off my website at www.AskDrGottMD.com. My books, “Dr. Gott’s No Flour, No Sugar Diet” and “No Flour, No Sugar Cookbook,” can be ordered by following the links on my website. You’re on the right track, and it is never too late to take steps to improve your health. Good luck.

Seriously, I am a 56-year-old female teacher, and I wanted to get in shape before I retired a year ago. I also wanted to be healthier and have a long retirement life. At my previous weight, I was unhappy, unhealthy and unfit to do anything physical, so I tried your diet plan. It worked and it has just kept on working.
It took me two years to get the weight off, and I still have around 27 pounds to go, but my doctor says I have probably added 10 years to my life. I used to be on three different high-blood-pressure medications and had to use a c-pap machine every night because of sleep apnea. Now I am medication-free, and my sleep apnea has disappeared.

I have taken up walking each day now, and last week, even at my age of 56, was able to walk 34 miles! I truly believe you have saved my life, so I wanted to send you my belated thanks. You rock, Dr. Gott!

DEAR READER: Congratulations! You have made a remarkable change in your life, and I commend your efforts. Making the decision to turn your life around and work toward better health is often the most difficult part of losing weight.

Healthful weight loss will not happen overnight. It takes time to gain weight and it takes time to lose it. You averaged a weight loss of about 1-1/2 pounds per week, which is appropriate.

I am pleased to hear that you are now able to be more active. If you continue to walk four to five miles a day, you will increase your muscle tone and further improve your health.

Keep up the good work and enjoy your retirement. You deserve it.

Readers interested in learning more about my no-flour, no-sugar diet should order my Health Report “A Strategy for Losing Weight: An Introduction to the No Flour, No Sugar Diet” by sending a self-addressed stamped No. 10 envelope and a $2 check or money order to Newsletter, P.O. Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092-0167. Be sure to mention the title or print an order form off my website at www.AskDrGottMD.com.

DEAR READER: Sugar is part of the curing process for most bacon; however, sugar-free bacon is available. Also, the amount of sugar is likely small because, according to the nutrition labels of most brands, there are zero carbs (which means no sugars). Therefore, bacon is an acceptable part of my No Flour, No Sugar Diet.
I must add a caveat here to say that just because bacon is acceptable does not mean that it should be used as a staple. Bacon — even sugar-free bacon — is typically high in salt and fat and should be reserved for an occasional treat and used in moderation.

Remember, occasional cheating is allowed on my diet. If you plan to attend a party or get-together and do not wish to abstain from the sweets and goodies often available, plan ahead and tighten your belt the week before so that when you indulge (in moderation) in the tempting treats, you do not spoil your end goal.

To provide related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “A Strategy for Losing Weight: An Introduction to the No Flour, No Sugar Diet.” Other readers who would like a copy can send a self-addressed stamped No. 10 envelope and a $2 check or money order to Newsletter, P.O. Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title. Also, an order form containing all my Health Reports can be printed from my Web site, www.AskDrGottMD.com, and mailed in.