5 Key Health Indicators You Should Track Regularly
It’s a well-known fact that prevention is better than cure, and one of the most effective ways to prevent any health problems is to track your health regularly. Keeping track of your health can help you stay on top of any developing health issues in the early stages, which can make a lot of difference in preventing them from becoming more severe.
Here are five key health indicators you should track regularly that can give you insights into your health status.
Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is often called the “silent killer” because it doesn’t cause any symptoms but can have serious consequences such as stroke or heart attack. Therefore, it’s crucial to monitor your blood pressure regularly.
You can easily measure your blood pressure with a home blood pressure monitor or visit a healthcare professional to have it checked. If your blood pressure is consistently high, it’s essential to make lifestyle changes such as exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, and limiting your salt intake. In some cases, medication may also be necessary.
Body Mass Index (BMI)
BMI is a calculation based on your weight and height that gives an indication of your body fat levels. A high BMI is associated with an increased risk of several health problems, such as heart disease, diabetes, and some types of cancer.
You can calculate your BMI using an online calculator or ask your healthcare professional to do it for you. If your BMI is high, it’s recommended to make lifestyle changes such as increasing your physical activity and adopting a healthy diet.
Cholesterol
Cholesterol is a type of fat that is found in your blood. There are two types of cholesterol: HDL (good cholesterol) and LDL (bad cholesterol). High levels of LDL cholesterol are associated with an increased risk of heart disease.
A blood test can measure your cholesterol levels. If your results show high levels of LDL cholesterol, your healthcare professional will recommend lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, and exercising regularly. In some cases, medication may also be necessary.
Blood Sugar
High blood sugar levels can lead to several health problems, such as diabetes, heart disease, and kidney damage. Monitoring your blood sugar regularly is essential, especially if you have a family history of diabetes.
You can measure your blood sugar levels with a home blood glucose monitor or ask your healthcare professional to do it for you. If your blood sugar levels are consistently high, your healthcare professional will recommend lifestyle changes such as losing weight, eating a healthy diet, and exercising regularly. In some cases, medication may also be necessary.
Sleep
Sleep is an essential part of our health and wellbeing, and poor sleep quality can have a significant impact on your health. The amount of sleep you need varies from person to person, but most adults need between 7-9 hours per night.
If you’re having trouble sleeping, it’s recommended to establish a regular sleep routine, limit your screen time before bed, manage your stress, and create a comfortable sleep environment. If you’re still having trouble sleeping, it’s essential to speak with your healthcare professional.
Conclusion
Tracking your health regularly can give you valuable insights into your health status and help you take steps to prevent any developing health problems in the early stages. By regularly monitoring your blood pressure, BMI, cholesterol, blood sugar, and sleep quality, you can take control of your health and wellbeing. Remember, prevention is always better than cure.
