What Does it Mean to be Proactive About Your Health Risks?

Ask any health professional, and they’ll tell you it’s better to be proactive when it comes to your health rather than reactive. But what does that mean, exactly? How can you be proactive about your health in order to avoid health problems when you don’t even know what they are?

Here are five key ways to be proactive about your health:

Know your genetics.

Many diseases and disorders have a genetic link. That’s why it’s important to discuss your family health history and find out about any issues that run in your family. If you know a close relative had a heart attack at a young age, for example, sharing this information with your doctor can allow you to take steps toward better heart health in the present.

Eat well.

Few things impact your health as directly as your diet. When you eat a healthy, balanced diet full of the right nutrients for good health, you’re setting yourself up for a lifetime of wellness. Try to eat balanced meals of vegetables, lean meats, and minimal sugar and sodium, and skip the sugary snacks and sodas when you can. There’s nothing wrong with indulging sometimes, but make a habit of it and you’re harming your health.

Exercise.

Get moving! Exercise is the absolute best way to keep your body – and mind – in great shape for a lifetime. Whether it’s working out at the gym, taking a job around the neighborhood after work, or practicing yoga in the mornings, getting at least a half-hour or so of vigorous physical activity every day is so important for your good health. It helps to prevent a lot of problems, like obesity and heart disease, too.

Get screened.

Early detection of risk factors through screenings and tests is essential, especially if certain health risks run in your family. Ask your doctor what kind of prevention tests might make sense for you – it’s one of the simplest and most effective ways to be proactive about your health.

See your doctor regularly.

Last but not least, hold regular checkups at your doctor’s office. Being seen by your healthcare professional on a regular basis is the best way to be proactive about your good health and catch any issues early.