When it comes to our cars there are routine maintenance checks we must do in order to keep them running in good condition. We need to do oil changes, keep the fluids topped off, change spark plugs, make sure we have gas and air in the tires etc. We do all these little maintenance checks to help prevent mechanical programs from occuring. This is just like our bodies! We need to do routine maintenance checks in order to prevent disease. There are key numbers that help to indicate if your body is running in good condition: Your cholesterol, blood pressure, blood sugar and body mass index.
Cholesterol target number: 200 or less
A sudden heart attack may not be “sudden” at all, but can be caused by years of living with high cholesterol and extra fats stored by the body. The normal range for total cholesterol is 200 or less. You also need to know your “healthy” HDL cholesterol and “lousy” LDL cholesterol numbers. High total cholesterol, high LDL, or low HDL means you need to take immediate action to prevent a possible heart attack or stroke. There are no definite symptoms of high cholesterol. That’s why it’s important to see your doctor and know your cholesterol numbers. 200 or less!
Blood Pressure target number: 120/80 or less
Blood pressure measures the amount of force it takes your heart to pump blood through your body. High blood pressure (or “hypertension”) increases your risk of heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease. High blood pressure damages your brain, eyes and arteries, too. Your blood pressure should be less than 120 over 80.You may have no symptoms of high blood pressure. Anyone can have high blood pressure. Check with your doctor to know your blood pressure numbers.
Blood Sugar target number: 80 to 120
Glucose is sugar stored in the blood as your body’s main source of energy. If your glucose is too high or too low, you may have diabetes. The average blood sugar range is between 80 and 120. Diabetes can strike anyone of any age, but it is more common in populations of ethnicity. Symptoms involve frequent urination, extreme hunger, thirst, unusual weight loss, increased fatigue, or blurry vision. If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, you need to have your A1C number checked. You A1C number tells you how well you’re controlling your blood sugar over time. Your A1C should be less than 7. Left untreated, diabetes can lead to heart disease, blindness, amputation of arms or legs, and kidney disease. To take steps against diabetes early, see your doctor and know your numbers.
Body Mass Index target number: 25 or less
Body mass index (BMI) measures your weight in relation to your height. It should be 25 or less. A BMI over 25 means you are overweight, and a number over 30 means you are obese. Extra weight can lead to high cholesterol, heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic illnesses. Check out this link to calculate your BMI. http://bit.ly/9pydGt
