5 Most Important Health Exams
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5 DIY HEALTH CHECKS THAT COULD SAVE YOUR LIFE
Posted on March 4, 2012 11:38AM by Shape
We are excited to share one of our fave stories from Shape here on FitSugar.
Today there are tests for almost everything. Luckily, these five health checks don’t require waiting in line to see a doctor or filling a prescription that may or may not be covered by your insurance. Read on for five DIY health checks you can perform that might just save your life.
Your Urine
Your first trip to the toilet in the morning can detect a lot more than pregnancy or a urinary tract infection. More than 70 markers in your urine can determine how your entire body is functioning and are key to preventing degenerative diseases, unknown gluten intolerance, low antioxidant levels that make you vulnerable to oxidative stress, and more, says Nancy Guberti, certified nutritionist and healthy-lifestyle coach.
For instance, “accumulation of specific organic acids in urine often signals a metabolic inhibition or block,” Guberti says. The abnormality could mean that you’re vitamin-deficient.
Your Weight
Unexplained weight gain and weight loss can also signal a major issue with your health, says Dr. Julie Chen, an integrative physician and health expert. Don’t ignore them. If you unexpectedly gain a lot of weight, this can signify hypothyroidism, adrenal disorders like Cushing’s syndrome, fluid retention as in congestive heart failure or renal disease, and pregnancy.
Your Teeth
Many people don’t realize the importance of a dental checkup. Dr. Lucy Slutsky, a general dentist based in West Orange, NJ, points out, “Oral hygiene and checkups are vital because dental problems can often be a sign of other health-related problems tied to the heart, lungs, digestive system, or other parts of the body.”
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