Health Tips Based on Experience

For many years, I ignored everything I heard about sickness, diet, and discipline. I thought those warnings were only for people who were already sick. Since I felt strong and healthy, I didn’t pay attention. I never imagined that one day, diabetes would hit me so hard that it would change my life completely.

But even though the experience was painful, I accepted it wholeheartedly. I am thankful because through this process, God opened my mind spiritually, physically, and even financially. Sometimes, God allows difficulties so our closed minds can finally open.

If we truly read and study especially the Bible we will see that nothing is hidden. God’s instructions are complete. One verse that speaks strongly about discipline is Proverbs 25:28 He that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down, and without walls.

Proverbs 13:18 Poverty and shame shall be to him that refuseth instruction: but he that regardeth reproof shall be honoured. which reminds us not to overeat. God already gave us guidance long before modern health advice existed.

What I Learned From the Japanese About Eating Discipline

As a seafarer for many years, I traveled to different parts of the world. Among all the cultures I encountered, the Japanese impressed me the most when it comes to food and diet.

I noticed something unique about them:

• They don’t eat large portions.
• They eat a variety of foods, but in small servings.
• They are extremely disciplined with their meals.

No wonder Japan has some of the longest living people in the world. Their discipline in eating is admirable. Today, I try to follow their example in my daily life, especially after recovering from diabetes.

Why I Now Eat 3–4 Hours Before Sleeping

One of the biggest changes I made was learning to eat early at least 3 to 4 hours before sleeping. At first, it was difficult. My body was used to eating anytime I wanted. But once I got the timing right, the results were amazing.

In the morning, I felt lighter. My digestion improved. My sleep became deeper. And most importantly, my blood sugar became more stable.

When you get used to discipline, you no longer want to return to your old habits.

Discipline Is Hard at First, But Worth It

Let me share a simple example from my own experience. I know discipline is not easy. When we feel hungry, it’s hard to stop ourselves. But if we truly care about our health, we must do it even when it’s difficult.

In the beginning, I struggled. But now, I don’t crave food the way I used to. Sometimes, I even joke with my colleagues that if I could give away my food, I would. That’s how much my appetite has changed.

Before, when I saw delicious food, my mouth watered instantly. Today, I don’t feel that anymore. I understand people who struggle with overeating because I was once like that too. But I always remember this verse:

Proverbs 23:20–21 (KJV): Be not among winebibbers; among riotous eaters of flesh: For the drunkard and the glutton shall come to poverty…

This verse reminds me that overeating leads to destruction not only physically, but also financially and spiritually.

A Childhood Memory That Taught Me About Food

When I was in high school around 14 or 15 years old we were very poor. My mother used to borrow one kilo of rice before dinner, breakfast, or lunch. That’s how difficult life was.

One night, my sister and I were studying for our preliminary exams. We had finished dinner, but I was still hungry. Our food was limited, and our rice was counted by cups. Everyone was already lying down my parents, my brother, and my sister.

Because I was still hungry, I quietly took one cup of rice and cooked it.

The next morning, when my father prepared breakfast, he noticed the rice was less than expected. My sister told him I cooked one cup the night before. My father was upset because our rice was budgeted for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Looking back, I realize something important:

Even though we ate less, we were healthy. We never got sick. We never went to the hospital. We lived simply, but our bodies were strong.

Sometimes, less food is actually better for our health.

Why Timing and Discipline Matter

My diabetes taught me that what we eat is important but when we eat is equally important. Eating too late, eating too much, or eating without discipline destroys our health slowly.

Today, I follow these principles:

• Eat early
• Eat small portions
• Eat with discipline
• Eat with gratitude
• Eat with awareness

And most importantly, I remember that God already gave us instructions about food long before modern science existed.

Final Thoughts

My diabetes journey taught me many lessons:

• Never ignore your health
• Discipline is life saving
• God’s Word contains wisdom for our bodies
• Eating less is not punishment it is protection
• Timing your meals can change your life

I am grateful that God used my sickness to open my mind. My spiritual life, my health, and even my financial mindset changed because of this experience.

Thank you for reading my story. I hope it inspires you to reflect on your own eating habits and daily choices. Feel free to share your thoughts I would love to hear your experiences.

Reynaldo M. Oliva