Understanding Risk Factors: Taking Control of Your Health
When it comes to our health, we often hear about “elevated risk factors” and how they can impact our well-being. But what exactly is an elevated risk, and how can we reduce it? Let’s delve into the concept of risk factors and empower you to take control of your health.
Understanding Elevated Risk
“Elevated risk” refers to an increased likelihood that something unfavorable could happen. For example, if someone has high blood sugar levels— a sign of pre-diabetes— their statistical risk of developing full-blown diabetes may be 2.5 times higher than someone without those signs. However, an elevated risk doesn’t guarantee a particular outcome will occur. It simply implies that the chance of a negative event is greater.
Reducing Risk Factors
The good news is that many health risk factors can be decreased through lifestyle modifications. Consider the pre-diabetes example. By consistently changing your diet and developing healthier eating habits, you can often bring your blood sugar levels back to normal, reducing your risk of developing diabetes.
Similarly, factors like high cholesterol and high triglycerides can increase the risk of heart attacks or strokes. They don’t guarantee these problems, but they do increase their likelihood. By changing your diet, exercising regularly, and considering nutritional supplements (with professional guidance), you can lower your risk and improve heart health.
We’ve previously discussed fatty liver disease here. It is also a risk factor that can be reduced with proper diet and monitoring.
The Ladder
Think about climbing a ladder. The more often you climb a ladder, the higher the possibility of falling. But this doesn’t mean falling is inevitable. If it did, no one would climb ladders!
The same principle applies to health risk factors. They increase the likelihood of negative outcomes, but they can be effectively managed to minimize the associated risks.
Our Approach at Health+Plus
Here at Health+Plus in Oak Grove, Missouri, we offer comprehensive evaluations led by Dr. David Clark and Melissa Abramovitz APRN/FNP-BC. These assessments include checking for potential risks of chronic diseases. We use lab test results, physical examinations, and lifestyle factors to provide personalized recommendations to help individuals lower their risk. Our focus is to empower individuals to take an active role in their health and make informed choices to reduce their risk factors.
Understanding Risk = Taking Charge of Your Health
Understanding risk factors is key to taking charge of your health. An elevated risk doesn’t guarantee a negative outcome, but it serves as a signal to make positive changes. By modifying your lifestyle, improving your diet, exercising regularly, and seeking professional guidance, you can actively reduce your risk factors and promote a healthier future.
Remember, you have the power to make a difference in your own well-being. It is not out of your hands.
Interested in learning more about natural health options we offer at Health+Plus Clinic? Call 816-625-4497 or visit our contact page. We would love to meet you and help you take your first step on the ladder to better health!