Monday, January 23, 2012

I'm a Health Consultant...I need to consult!

I worked as a Health Consultant for the past 3 1/2 years and absolutely loved it!  I measured people's blood pressure, cholesterol, and hemoglobin A1c, height, weight, body fat and waist measurement.  I then had the opportunity to sit down one-on-one to go over the results and offer support, advice and help people get connected with resources that would further help them in reaching their health and fitness related goals.  I loved knowing that I was helping people by educating them on the human body, nutrition and exercise.  Due to a restructuring and change in the program I work for, my position has changed and I am now a Well-Being Liaison.  I am flying to Oahu tomorrow to find out more about my new position.  I am hopeful that the new position will allow me to continue helping others to reach their goals.  During the past 3 1/2 years, I've had my share of health issues.  I was diagnosed with Gitelman's Syndrome which is a genetic electrolyte wasting syndrome.  This means that my body wastes potassium, magnesium and phosphorus.  I felt horrible for years and now that I now what the problem is, I feel pretty good most of the time, as long as I take my mega doses of potassium chloride and magnesium oxide throughout the day.  I was also diagnosed with hyperparathyroidism and had a large parathyroid adenoma removed 2 years ago.  Apparently, my body was leaching the calcium from my bones for many years (probably at least 8 years) and this left me with osteoporosis.  My bones continue to get stronger and hopefully, will one day soon, be back to normal density for someone my age.  Being relatively young and experiencing a few health scares, has given me a new outlook on the importance of taking care of one's body.  I am also very grateful for each good day I have and for my improving health.  It makes me so sad when I talk to people who are struggling with health issues of their own.  It is especially bothersome, to me, when I meet with someone who's health issues are totally preventable and/or reversible.  For the most part, our health is directly related to how we treat our bodies- the food we eat, what we do or don't do activity wise and our outlook or attitude.  I realize that there are genetic and other issues that we may not be able to control, but I truly believe that the majority of health issues can be avoided with proper nutrition, regular exercise, a little sunshine, clean air, clean water and of course a positive attitude!  Through this blog, I hope to share a little of my knowledge and hopefully help to inspire some of you to get active and get healthy.  I'm also hoping that knowing that I'm blogging regularly on the subject, will keep me motivated to stay active and healthy, too!  Thanks for letting me purge!