Living a longer, healthier life is a goal that many people strive to achieve. While genetics and luck certainly play a role, there are several essential health factors that you can track and monitor to improve your overall wellbeing.

By keeping a close eye on these key areas, you can make informed decisions and take proactive steps towards a healthier future. In this article, we will discuss five essential health factors that you should track for a longer, healthier life.

1. Blood Pressure

Your blood pressure is a measure of the force of blood against the walls of your arteries. High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, can lead to serious health problems such as heart disease and stroke.

Tracking your blood pressure regularly can help you identify any potential issues and take appropriate actions to manage it. You can measure your blood pressure using a home blood pressure monitor or by visiting your healthcare provider.

2. Body Mass Index (BMI)

Your Body Mass Index (BMI) is a calculation that determines whether you are at a healthy weight for your height.

It takes into account your weight and height and provides a numerical value that falls into different categories such as underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese. Monitoring your BMI can give you an indication of whether you need to make any changes to your diet and exercise habits to maintain a healthy weight.

3. Cholesterol Levels

Cholesterol is a waxy substance that is found in the fats in your blood. While your body needs cholesterol to build healthy cells, high levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol can increase the risk of heart disease.

Monitoring your cholesterol levels, particularly LDL cholesterol, can help you identify any potential problems and make necessary lifestyle changes such as adopting a healthier diet or increasing physical activity to lower your cholesterol levels.

4. Blood Sugar Levels

Blood sugar, also known as blood glucose, refers to the amount of sugar (glucose) present in your blood. High blood sugar levels can be an indication of prediabetes or diabetes.

Monitoring your blood sugar levels can help you identify any issues early on and take appropriate steps to manage them. This can include making changes to your diet, increasing physical activity, or taking medication as prescribed by your healthcare provider.

5. Mental Health

Mental health is an often overlooked aspect of overall wellbeing. It is important to track and monitor your mental health as it can have a significant impact on your quality of life.

Factors such as stress, anxiety, and depression can take a toll on your physical health as well. Paying attention to your mental health, seeking support when needed, and engaging in self-care activities can contribute to a longer, healthier life.

Conclusion

Tracking these five essential health factors can provide valuable insights into your overall wellbeing and help you make informed decisions to improve your health.

Regular monitoring, along with adopting healthy lifestyle habits, can contribute to a longer, healthier life. Remember to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance based on your individual circumstances.