Once I graduated college, I was done with tests. Sure, the learning was great but I start to sweat thinking about studying for and taking tests. However, there are a few health tests that could actually save your life. And with free health insurance quotes online, you will have no excuse not to take these “tests.”
Waist circumference. No, everything is not around looks. But your waist circumference is directly related to your health. If you are overweight-your waist circumference will relate- you will suffer from serious health risks like hypertension, heart problems and joint pressures. Belly fat can also increase your risk of stroke. On the flip side, women who are underweight run other serious health risks, as well such as malnutrition which leads to a whole host of health issues. How to test if you are right on track? Take your height and divide by 2. That number will be your healthiest waist size.
Glucose levels. You should test your blood glucose level every three years once you hit 45. However, if you are overweight or have other health issues (such as diabetes) you should get tested more often. Sadly, the best way to test your glucose levels is through a blood sample after you have been fasting. This will give you a more accurate test. It will also let you know if you are at risk for diabetes.
Blood pressure. Your blood pressure is key to keeping your heart (and the rest of your body) pumping along. High blood pressure will overwork you heart which puts you at risk for heart attack, hypertension and/ or stroke. A more gross side effect? High blood pressure can harden your arteries and build up blockage. Yuck. Check your blood pressure on the grocery store machine. If your blood pressure is high, visit your doctor. You could get on medication to help lower your blood pressure.
Cholesterol. This is another test best tested with by blood, but it is worth it. Just like your blood pressure, high cholesterol can harden and block your arteries. A good percentage of strokes and heart attacks are linked to high cholesterol. Even a better reason to keep this score low. You should get your cholesterol checked every five years or so. However, if you have a history of high cholesterol, you should get it checked more often. While cholesterol is often associated with a heavy weight, do not be deceived. My mom was a thin and fit young women with high cholesterol that has chased her her entire life.
Mammogram. No, getting your boobs squished by a machine is not my idea of fun, but getting a regular mammogram could save your life. Breast cancer is on the rise, but it is one cancer that can be defeated if found early on. And getting a regular mammogram can help you detect cancer before it progresses to far. Women over 40 should get a mammogram every year. Younger women should do self breast exams at least monthly to check for lumps and other abnormalities.