In our search for health, we often cling to a set of standard numbers, which are called "norms" of our physiological metrics. People often use these numbers, along with suggested blood sugar or blood pressure levels, as guides for what is healthy. But now that personalised medicine is becoming more popular and the search for peak performance is becoming more common, strictly following normative data might not only be out of date, it might also be limiting.
When we question what most people think about "normal" health ranges, we find that they don't apply to everyone, especially those who want to be at their healthiest and most productive. What if we tried to focus on the more specific "optimal" instead of the more general "normal"?
Let's look at blood pressure. The normal range for systolic pressure is between 120 and 139 mmHg and for diastolic pressure it is between 80 and 90 mmHg. However, studies like those in the "Journal of the American College of Cardiology" show that lower numbers may be better for your health in the long run. That being said, why settle for the higher end of "normal" when going for the best levels could be better?
In the same way, people with blood sugar levels below 6.5 mmol/L are not diabetic, while people with levels between 5.7 and 6.4 mmol/L are in the pre-diabetes range. Diabetes is diagnosed at levels above 6.5 mmol/L. Instead of a broad "normal," a healthier goal might be an ideal target range.
The Case of Emily:
Emily, a 35-year-old marathon runner, experienced this firsthand. Despite having 'normal' blood pressure and blood sugar levels, she frequently felt fatigued and struggled with her training. It wasn't until she and her healthcare provider targeted 'optimal' levels that Emily noticed a significant improvement in her energy and performance. This shift not only enhanced her athletic abilities but also her overall wellbeing.
Advantages of Seeking Optimal Ranges
Lowering blood pressure below the upper end of the "normal" range has been shown in studies to lower the risk of heart disease and stroke and make people live longer.
Better Daily Functioning
People whose blood sugar levels are on the lower end of the normal range often say they have more energy and can think more clearly. The "American Diabetes Association" found that people whose blood sugar levels were in the right range had less daily changes, which led to a more stable and active lifestyle.
Taking a more positive view of health can have huge long-term benefits and make your life better.
Moving beyond the "good enough" mindset of normative ranges can help us do more than just avoid getting sick. It can also help us reach our full potential and be healthy.
How to Begin with Customised Goals
To find your personal baseline, start with a full health evaluation. You should work with a healthcare provider who encourages you to reach your health goals, not just stay healthy.
Work with a Prehab Assembly Performance Coach to set clear, step-by-step goals. Together, you can build up your aerobic and muscular capacity, which will raise your blood pressure. Our qualified dieticians can also help you make changes to your diet that will help keep your blood sugar levels in the right range so you can perform at your best.
Remember, one size does NOT fit all. Personalising your health goals means striving to be healthier than ever before.
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