It is crucial that you have regular checkups, which could include
mammograms, pap smears, checks for colon cancer, EKGs, etc. Many
times, a regular checkup could have caught something earlier on, actually
saving a life. If you do not feel good, have your doctor check things out. If
you are due for your annual mammogram, have it done. You could possibly
be saving your own life.
17. Cholesterol Levels
High cholesterol leads to hardening of arteries, which in turn, leads to heart
disease or attack. Keep your intake of food healthy, limit the amount of
sugar you eat, and have your cholesterol checked. If it is higher than 200,
ask your doctor for ways to reduce it.
18. Meditate
Find some time away from noise and distractions for you. Meditation can
come in many forms. Whatever way you meditate, ensure that you are in a
quiet place with soft lighting, sit with good posture and in a comfortable
position, practice slow, rhythmic breathing, and concentrate on something
calm and relaxing. Meditation is a great stress reducer, which is vital for
good health.
19. Listen to ME
If you know that you are not feeling "right" but the doctor tells you everything
is fine, listen to your body. There is nothing wrong with getting a second
opinion. If you are not comfortable with the doctor's advice, get another
exam. In addition, if you go to a doctor who tells you that what you feel is in
your head, or you are crazy, get out of there immediately. You know your
body better than anyone does and you need a doctor that believes in you
and offers the right kind of support and encouragement.
20. Body Fat
When you think about losing weight, more importantly than weight is the
amount of fat you are carrying around. This fat is measured with what is
called Body Mass Index, or BMI. For women, if you are fit, your percent of
body fat should range from 21% to 31%. If you are in incredible shape, that
could be as low as 10%. For men, fit should be between 14% and 25%,
and excellent shape, as low as 2%.