NEWSTART – Lifestyle Modification Stories Mr. John Cheung In the past, due to my busy work schedules, I neglected my health. As a result of a physical examination in 1994, I discovered that my blood pressure and sugar levels were both elevated. The doctor advised me to follow the healthy lifestyle principles. In 2001, my wife and I participated in the 6night / 7day ‘NEWSTART’ program, where we learned how to practice healthy lifestyle principles. I remember the first day; I was not used to the food that they provided, but after the doctors and nurses explained the benefits of this healthy food, I learnt to like the food. I also especially liked the hydrotherapy and massage. By the end of the program I had lost 6 pounds, and decreased the dose of my anti-hypertensive drug. In 2005, my diet is still plant-based, and I have maintained my weight at 60 kg. I joined both the Thailand and Taiwan ‘NEWSTART’ trips as follow-up, to keep me pointed in the right direction. Mr. Henry Chan My eating habits were bad. If I felt hungry I would search for food to eat, even in my dreams. I was overweight, and had suffered from diabetes and hypertension for 20 years, and gout for the last ten years. My diabetes had not been well controlled. The doctor initially prescribed different types of oral medications to control my diabetes, but more recently, it was necessary for me to have injections. The dosage increased from 25 units to 60 units daily. Two months ago, I repeated the blood tests for HbA1c, cholesterol, and liver and kidney function tests. Noting the results of these tests, the doctor told me that if my diabetes could not be well controlled, in a few years I could end up requiring renal dialysis. I have retired now, and I don’t want to lose this opportunity to enjoy life with my wife, rather than someone having to take care of me. I decided to join the ‘Funfit’ / Weight Management Program, and the 7-day Taiwan ‘NEWSTART’ program at the Adventist Hospital. I changed my eating habits from the first day I joined the ‘Funfit’ program. I have stopped eating snakes, and I have followed the advice of the dietician by eating vegetables everyday, as well as recording all the food I eat. I have even started doing regular exercise. The biggest change I have made since those seven days I spent in Taiwan’s ‘NEWSTART’ Center, is that I have learnt how to cook whole-grains, and I have also learnt the principles regarding cholesterol free foods, as well as valuable information about eggs, dairy products, oil, and high fiber foods. I also gained important knowledge on how to reverse diabetes. As of now, the dosage of my insulin injection has been decreased, my blood pressure has returned to normal, and I have lost some weight. My friends now comment that I look healthier. I really thank God for giving me this opportunity to learn about these healthy lifestyle principles, and for the opportunity to meet the professionals at the Adventist Hospital. My daily routine is now changed, and I go for a walk after each meal. I feel that the ‘Funfit’, and ‘NEWSTART’ programs, are really worth joining. Their value is priceless. I have gained so much from attending these programs, and learnt to trust the professional advice given. In conclusion, a ‘healthy body’ starts with a ‘healthy lifestyle’, which promotes the well-being of body, mind, and spirit. To Register, please telephone: (852) 2276 7331. |
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