"Test, don't guess" is a mantra that everyone should adopt when it comes to their health. It’s all about getting real, concrete data instead of making assumptions about how your body is doing.
What Do We Mean?
Think about it: how often do you hear people self-diagnosing or ignoring subtle symptoms because they "feel fine"? This approach can lead to missed warning signs and untreated conditions. Testing provides a clear picture of what's happening inside you, which is essential for catching issues early and managing your health effectively.
Your Bloods Are Normal? ...But you still feel like sh£t!
One key reason testing is so important is the difference between normal and optimal ranges. Normal ranges are based on averages from a broad population. While being in the normal range means you’re not deficient or diseased, it doesn’t necessarily mean you’re at your best. Optimal ranges, on the other hand, are what you should aim for if you want to feel great, have plenty of energy, and maintain peak performance.
Examples
For instance, you might have "normal" vitamin D levels according to standard tests, but those levels might not be sufficient to boost your immune system or support strong bones optimally.
Another example is thyroid function. Standard tests might show your thyroid levels are within the normal range, but if you're still feeling sluggish, gaining weight, or experiencing hair loss, your levels might not be optimal for you. By digging deeper with more specific tests, you can find out if your thyroid needs a bit of help to get into that optimal zone where you feel your best. This concept extends to other areas as well, such as cholesterol and blood sugar levels. Normal cholesterol levels might mean you're not at immediate risk for heart disease, but optimal levels are those that give you the best shot at long-term heart health. The same goes for blood sugar: normal levels might mean you’re not diabetic, but optimizing your blood sugar can help you avoid energy crashes and reduce the risk of future problems.
Personalised Medicine at Its Best 💊
Testing also allows for personalized health plans. When you know your exact levels, you can make targeted changes to your diet, supplements, and lifestyle. This beats the one-size-fits-all advice that might not work for everyone. For instance, if a blood test reveals you have low magnesium, you can specifically focus on magnesium-rich foods or supplements, rather than guessing and possibly missing the mark.
Moreover, testing can reveal hidden imbalances and deficiencies that might not manifest through obvious symptoms. For example, you could be low in essential nutrients like B12 or iron, but the symptoms might be subtle or mistaken for something else. Regular testing helps catch these issues before they turn into bigger health problems.
Summary
In a nutshell, "test, don't guess" is about being proactive and precise with your health. It’s about using data to make informed decisions, rather than relying on how you feel or what’s average. By aiming for optimal rather than just normal, you’re setting yourself up for better health, more energy, and a higher quality of life. So, next time you’re due for a check-up or feeling off, remember that a simple test can give you the insights you need to truly thrive, not just survive.
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