To gain uniformity in getting the four of us started on the same footing, I too consulted with Dr. Eric Lokken. However, because I have been regularly seeing Dr. Gabor Joo and because my lab tests were as recent as Oct., 2007, Dr. Lokken simply reviewed the lab tests with me and recommended that I actually carry forward and do the things that Dr. Joo had earlier suggested to me. Well, we all know that carrying out Doctor's orders can easily be put aside and wait for another day...which is precisely what has been happening with me. My lab tests pointed to some borderline issues, but because they weren't 'taking me down' I pretty much ignored what I was told I needed to do.
The lab tests pointed to a need for regular excercise as the way for me to lower my blood pressure, which had gotten toward the high end of what is generally called normal. It would also help raise the level of good cholesterol (HDL) while at the same time would reduce my level of Glucose, because it was at the high end of normal. The concern with high glucose is that diabetes can become an issue.
It has become fairly obvious that that I can't do anything about my age (71) and I can't do anything about my height (5' 8 1/2"), but I can do something about my weight. The Doctors told me that excercising regularly for 1/2 hour a day, 5 days a week will in fact have a enough of an impact on my weight and the lab numbers that I won't have to go on any medicines for cholersterol or for diabetes. (I have been taking an 81 asprin on Dr. Bjork's advice for the last 15 years, but am not on any other medications).
As most of you know, it takes commitment and a strong desire, to make the lifestyle changes necessary to do the right thing. It also may take a little friendly competition amoung the four of us to get our juices flowing enough for me proceed down the path set out for me by both doctors. I'm not going to try to lose 20 pounds in the next two months...I've been down and up that path before. But Dr. Lokken did point out that I was down six pounds in the last nine months, so I haven't totally ignored the advice I have received.
I've renewed my Y membership, have been on the treadmill, and have been trying to think about eating until I am about 80% full (some Japanese measurement of how to eat better), and hope to get through the Christmas season without backsliding on my new routine.
I wish all of you a very merry Christmas!
