My Parents' Blood Test Results

This week, my usually stubborn father finally consented to get blood work done, to check his blood sugar and cholesterol levels. The last time he got tested was over ten years ago. My mom supported him by going through the test too.

It was about time. I guess we were all spooked over how so many people we knew had died during the first few days of the new year. Our trusted family driver died without warning in his hometown shortly after he started his retirement. A family friend in the U.S. died a few days later after having been in and out of the ICU; she was suffering from obesity (over 300 lbs) and asthma. Another few days later, our longtime next-door neighbor succumbed to liver cancer. Then, there was also the death of Cerge Remigio, and when a news report detailed the diseases the press secretary suffered (diabetes, hypertension, smoking, high cholesterol), I quipped to my dad, "Hey, you two match almost perfectly, except for the hypertension!" I could tell there was a hint of nervousness in his laughter.

But after the test results and doctor's consultation, it turned out he was also at risk for hypertension, on top of the high blood sugar and cholesterol levels. My mom also had rather high cholesterol levels. My dad's sister, who also happens to be a doctor, pointed out that the test results were "unfair" because we had just come off a lengthy holiday in the U.S. after all. She advised them to get another test done after a few months of a regular diet.

Secretly, I was happy that the test results were exaggerated because I hoped it would be a rude awakening for them both. In their eyes, I was the health freak, constantly nagging them to stay away from junk food, soda, and chocolate. Even I was getting tired of hearing my own voice and seeing them not do anything about it. They're fine with their three square meals, but I feel their constant snacking habit (particularly with sweets) in front of the TV was responsible for their health woes.

So far this week, since getting the results, they're doing fine, even while staying away from unnecessary snacking. My mom's also making an effort to cook fewer fried food, and my dad has started to eat oatmeal for breakfast to help bring down his cholesterol levels. "It's really filling," he said. I replied, "Yeah, that's why you see me eating oatmeal every day." Previously, he would favor overly sweet kakanin and champorado for breakfast, which aren't as filling and would also cause blood sugar levels to suddenly skyrocket after a fasting state. I even suggested to my mom that she could add tableya to their oatmeal so that they could still enjoy the taste of champorado.

The doctor also advised them to have dessert once a week, and knowing my dad and his sweet tooth, such a restriction is equivalent to physical torture. I don't expect them to go once a week just yet, but I'll be happy if they knock it down to just thrice a week for now. Gradual steps, right? And I think I should join them too—I haven't had a refined-carb dessert (except for fruit) in only the last three days, and my stomach doesn't feel so disgusting and bloated anymore. Wow. I just might be able to better pacify my sweet cravings if it means losing stomach bloat.

We've also resolved to eat out less often, that's one way to get rid of extra calories, fat, and sugar. We'll also be trimming expenses while doing so.

I just pray they can keep this up, and I want to help and support them in every way I can.

Thursday's workout
- 45-minute brisk walk/jog