This is fascinating ! Take a look...

jjs22

That's exactly what my doctor said.

I went in today for my 6-month appointment, and when he looked at my bloodwork results, he was *very* impressed. He said this is what it looks like when the lab gets people's samples mixed up.

The numbers were from 1 year ago (pre-diet), 6 months ago (lost 25-ish pounds, very light exercise), and last week (45-ish pounds lost, fairly regular exercise).

I don't recall all the numbers, but roughly...

triglycerides went from 440 to under 100

good cholesterol from 31 to 57

heart attack "risk factor" from 7.7 to 3.6

I recall being a little disappointed 6 months ago, because 25 pounds and light exercise hadn't put much of a dent in the numbers. Some, but not a lot. But clearly, ramping up the exercise has made a huge difference.

I was a little concerned by the last figure (heart attack risk factor). When a number is out of line the software on the doc's computer shows it in red boldface. Most of my recent figures were good enough that they were in plain black font, but not the risk factor. Turns out that's because it went from being way higher than normal to way lower.

Anyway, losing weight and starting to exercise is one of the best things I've done. My main motivation has been how good it makes me feel, but it sure is nice when someone else notices.

Especially my doctor.

findingme07

That is enlightening information....I can't wait until my December appt.!

Romans624

That is so awesome! I want to calculate my heart attack risk factor now..