Resolving to wellness

Greeting the New Year at the ripe age of 70 (1955 is my birth year), meant reflection of a particular type.

- PHILIP CU UNJIENG

A FRESH NEW YEAR, with my three sons. Family tradition of the holiday photo, shot by my nephew, Dominic Bekaert.

At this stage of my life, it’s really good health and taking on better wellness habits, that are primary on my mind.I don’t weigh myself that often, but I did right after Christmas and discovered that I had gained 10 pounds from the last time I recall being on a scale, back in early 2025. This caused a frisson of worry and concern on my part. And Ihave to admit there was no way I could call it “a good increase of muscle, or ideal body mass.” I exercise regularly; but it’s tennis, somore cardio than weights and bulking up.

Beyond the increase in the surface, subcutaneous fat that’s visible around my belly and flanks, an analysis of my body mass and composition revealed a corresponding increase in my visceral fat — this is the deep belly fat that surrounds our internal organs such as the liver, pancreas, and intestines. Stored in the abdomen, we can’t see or pinch visceral fat; but it is active in the sense that it releases hormones and inflammatory chemicals that can negatively affect our body. Healthy for cushioning, but excess amounts can be dangerous; raising risks for type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and even heart disease and certain cancers.