Health Tips for Forty-somethings
Turning 40 can be scary. Not only are you realizing you are getting older, you may also be considering your health in a whole new light. While 40 is certainly not old, there are some important health considerations to think about, after all as the old saying goes, prevention is worth a thousand cures.
Getting Screened
There are important medical screenings that begin at age 40 and continue into your older years. Taylore Vance offers these guidelines.
• Blood pressure screening should be done once per year.
Those who suffer from heart disease, kidney problems, or diabetes may need to check blood pressure more often, ask your doctor.
• Cholesterol screenings should begin between the ages of 40 to 45, and checked every 5 years.
Those who suffer from heart disease, kidney problems, have a history of high cholesterol or other certain medical conditions may be advised by their doctor to be tested more often.
• Diabetes testing should begin at age 44 or older and be done every 3 years.
Those who are overweight will likely require earlier testing.
• Colon cancer screening is advised for women under age 50 when they have a strong family history of either colon cancer or polyps.
Other high risk factors include a history of inflammatory bowel disease.
• Dental exams and regular cleanings should be done regularly, once or a twice a year.
Gum disease and other dental problems can increase risks for heart disease.
• Pap smear + HPV DNA tests, which can show risk for cervical cancer
Beyond age 40:
• Mammogram to check for breast cancer
• Fecal occult blood test age 50: stools tested for blood a possible sign of colorectal cancer.
• Flexible sigmoidoscopy age 50: examines lower portion of the large intestine.
• Bone mineral density test: indicates bone density and osteoporosis risk.
Vitamin D Levels
Our skin’s ability to produce vitamin D from the sun decreases over time. So, after age 40 you should get your vitamin D levels checked. If they’re low, you can supplement your vitamin D intake a many number of ways.
You can get vitamin D naturally through foods like egg yolks, cheese, and fatty fish. Supplements are also available in pill or powdered forms. Vitamin D is essential to our body’s ability to uptake calcium. To have strong bones as you age, you must have adequate levels to build the calcium needed by your bones. A lab test can show if you have a vitamin D deficiency, as your doctor.
Find the Right Diet
Herb “Roi” Richards recommends that you watch your weight after 40 more than ever, as metabolism slows naturally with age. Finding a diet that works for you and being mindful of caloric intake while exercising regularly can help. If you’re not sure where to start you can always consult a dietitian or your physician.
Stress Control
Stress is a killer. And with heart disease on the rise in women, it is no wonder that stress control is on this list. Stress management should be your top priority, and there are many ways to keep stress under control, including yoga, meditation, and relaxation and practicing sound self-care. If you know you’re at risk for high stress, then it’s important to take action before it’s too late.
Get Social
In aging, there is one factor that can truly make a huge difference in quality and quantity of life. That is your social network. If you don’t currently have a group of friends, reaching out to your church or social organizations can help. Creating a social network and support system is vital as you age because it keeps you active, and also stimulates the growth of neural pathways in the brain, which it keeps vibrant and alive.