You know that you are in need of a lifestyle change when you comment to a Chinese work colleague, who loves hiking, that you both should go out for a walk on a country trail one day, and you get the reply: 'Of course. And then one day I can go out binge drinking with you.'
Sometimes the truth hurts, and when it comes to our health, it's not something you should take for granted. That's why the Hong Kong Diabetes Association's free health screening at Southorn Stadium, Wan Chai yesterday showed what could be achieved with a bit of effort.
The event, which highlighted the need for regular check-ups, was an attempt to set a Guinness World Record for the most diabetes and cholesterol readings in a 24-hour period. Not only did they break the record - they checked 747 people beating the Philippines' record of 580 - but they showed how important diabetes and cholesterol check-ups were for a full and healthy life.
'The message we want to get across is that it's not just the old who are at risk of diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol, it's across the board. That's why regular checks on all these are essential,' said Dr Ronald Ma Ching-Wan, vice-president of the Hong Kong Diabetes Association.
After listening to Ma's advice I thought it only prudent to have the tests done as well. As a, let's say, 'big-boned' member of Hong Kong's expatriate community, I had my blood pressure tested (normal), blood sugar tested for diabetes (normal) and cholesterol tested.
To say I have skirmished with cholesterol over the years is an understatement. I love food. I love it so much that it has taken the place of sex in my life. In fact I was thinking of having a mirror put on the ceiling above my kitchen table.