Test: Your annual health check up
It is that time of the year.
Please consider getting an annual checkup.
As we head to the close of the year, I know your days are filled with social engagements. Nevertheless, make time to go to a clinic.
There is no better cure than prevention. Prevention relies on early detection.
If you do, what should you test?
Besides a standard blood panel, which tests for cholesterol, blood sugar, immunity, vitamins and minerals, have yourself checked physically.
Blood pressure, body fat, but also nervous responsiveness, muscle strength, memory, sight and hearing, to name a few.
Check your heart rate variability, respiratory capcity, VO2Max, lactate threshold, and lung function also known as the treadmill test.
Consider a micro nutrient test that tells you what micro nutrients you may be missing.
I know many programs offer a comprehensive x-ray. Be cautious. X-rays are harmful, and unless you have a history or family history of a condition, weigh the benefits versus the possible harm.
Instead, look at more benign ways to peer inside. A sonography for example.
Many people shy away from testing out of fear. We all fear the unknown.
But let me assure you with a decade of experience behind me, that the best cure to any ailment is knowledge. The sooner you know, the more likely you can fix it.
Fortunately, in our lifetime, most of our suffering is from non-communicable diseases.
They can be fixed or at the very least managed.
If you found something amiss, the worst you would have to do is to make a few lifestyle changes.
But that is like your examination card telling you that you didnt ace your German exam. Yes, it may be painful in the moment, but surely it would spur you to study harder the next time.
So test, at least once a year, if not more often.
I can't tell you the number of stories I have heard of people who tested, found something and then fixed it very quickly.
Reach out to me on twitter @rbawri Instagram @riteshbawriofficial and YouTube at www.youtube.com/breatheagain
