How to Trace the Nutritional Needs of Both Men and Women Throughout the Various Stages of Life

Men and women, who are health conscious and want to look and feel their best, understand the importance of staying informed regarding their nutritional needs. Many factors can impact your nutritional needs, including your age, body weight and build, as well as your family history.

Things You'll Need

• Doctor
• Blood tests
• Supplements
• Exercise

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Instructions

• 1

  Getting regular check-ups and physical examinations can help you to stay on top of your health and nutritional needs.

  Get a complete physical examination and blood test to best determine your personal nutritional needs. Your doctor can obtain blood samples and test your levels in vitamin D, calcium, iron, minerals and other vitamins. Also, knowing your blood pressure and whether you have high blood glucose and cholesterol can help you to figure out a nutritional plan that is ideal for you. Explain your personal family health to your doctor, including history of cancer, high blood pressure, diabetes and other conditions. For many people, having a doctor who is both a naturopath and who has a medical degree can be even more helpful. Naturopaths have studied long hours and have had specific training in nutrition.

• 2

  A nutritionist can help to create a personal diet plan that is right for you.

  Ask your doctor to refer you to a nutritionist. Some doctors do not provide specific nutritional plans for you to follow, and they prefer to refer their patients to nutritionists who are specially trained in this area. A nutritionist can help you to choose the right foods and supplements to fit your lifestyle and provide proper advice to keep you on the path toward health. A nutritionist can also give you good ideas on which types of foods to avoid and how to work around and control your allergies.

• 3

  Working with a personal trainer at a gym can help you to stay motivated and on track.

  Participate in an exercise program that is best suited for your age group and lifestyle, after you have consulted with a nutritionist and determined the best diet plan for you. Joining a gym and working with a personal trainer can be very beneficial to obtaining and maintaining optimum health. Consult with your doctor, naturopath or nutritionist on what exercises would be best for you. Some people might require weight training, whereas others might need a weight loss program. While walking and swimming might be the best forms of activity for some individuals, others may require more rigorous training and exercise.

• 4

  No matter what stage of life you are in, you can be in good health.

  Get annual or biannual blood tests to trace your nutritional health. Your doctor will tell you how often you will need to have blood drawn. Depending on your health and family history, it may be more often. Your nutritional needs will change as you enter various stages of life.