Blood Tests

As part of my health improvement program, I also want a complete set of blood work results. Every year for my annual physical, I found out about my cholesterol, but that is about it. After reading "You, The Owner's Manual", I know that I need to know a lot more about my blood. I need to know my levels of cholesterol (total, LDL, HDL), blood sugar, homocystein, hormones, minerals, kidney and liver functions and disease screening such as PSA for prostate cancer. So I am having my blood work done today. I recommend using Health One Labs (http://healthonelabs.com/user/inside.php) because they offer comprehensive testing at reasonable prices. First, I went to several pharmacies to see if I could test my blood sugar and cholesterol levels myself, and you can. However, the cheapest kits, to test just those two levels, cost about $50 to $60. The Health One Labs comprehensive screen cost $59. Which is by far the best price I found for this type of testing. There are some really cool websites that give more comprehensive testing and an analysis of the results, but these test usually run about $300 (see http://www.yourfuturehealth.com/services_healthprints2.htm). Not in my budget right now, but I am bummed that my testing will not include my hormone levels or a thyroid screening. So my big hope is that not only will I look and feel better by completing the BFL Challenge, but that I will see measurable improvements in the health and real age of my body. I hate needles. So wish me luck!

Day 2 -- Body for Life -- Beginning Statistics

Because I am now 40 years old now, I need a transformation of not just my looks but of some important vital statistics also. I have recently read "You, the Owner's Manual" and its recommendations for "The Live Younger Action Plan." The book explains each system of our body and what we need to do to keep our systems young and healthy. The health of most of these systems are measured by our vital statistics and blood tests. My current vital statistics are basically a "needs improvement" list. Vital Statistic Current Level Live Younger Action Plan Blood Pressure 133/84 115/76 Weight 185 lbs 135 lbs Body Fat % 35% N/A Body Mass Index 29 21.8 I will also be tracking my statistics to see how my real health is improving. I think on Body-for-Life my weight will actually be a little higher because BFL emphasizes weight-training and muscle building much more than the Owner's Manual plan. The Owner's Manual plan has alternating cardio and strength training, but recommends 20 minutes of cardio and only 10 minutes of strength training. The Owners Manual also recommends 5 minutes of yoga for flexibility, which I am incorporating into my work out program because I need the flexibility.