Vibrance for Life. Lorraine MD Maita M.D.

      •Blood pressure

      •Pulse

      •Body mass index (BMI)*

      •Body composition (percent fat)

      •Waist size

      •Hip size

      •Waist-to-hip ratio

      *NOTE: Body mass index (BMI) is a relationship between weight and height that is associated with body fat and health risk.

      Basic blood tests are essential to determine if you have any underlying illness and can be early indicators of risk for developing illness. Some basic tests that assess your metabolic function are:

      •Fasting blood sugar

      •Metabolic panel or chem. screen

      •Complete blood count (CBC)

      •Lipids (cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and triglycerides)

      Advanced testing for cardiovascular disease and metabolic syndrome are emerging as important in determining risk for disease and can guide treatment options:

      •Lipoprotein particle analysis

      •C- Reactive Protein

      •Homocysteine

      •Fasting insulin

      •Hemoglobin A1c

      Other age- or gender-specific tests that are early markers for cancer, osteoporosis, and hormone deficiencies or imbalances are:

      •Prostate specific antigen (PSA)

      •Pap smear

      •Mammography

      •DEXA bone scan

      •Hormone levels

      Refer to the appendices to determine your risk and record your findings.

      Prioritize

      Knowing your personal risk factors can help you prioritize. Your doctor or a metabolic anti-aging specialist can help you find the common thread and assist you in focusing on the areas that will the greatest impact. However, just following some basic lifestyle principles can improve your health.

      Put your plan of action on paper or in your computer. Now you are ready to begin.