Health coach shares 9 preventive screenings that can catch problems faster in your 20s and 30s
'Most Indian 20s and 30s get routine blood work that looks okay on paper. But what if I told you some of the most important tests for your hormones, gut, and metabolism are never even suggested,' she wrote. Here are the tests that she suggested.
1. Ferritin
You can be iron-deficient even if your Hb is normal. Ferritin shows stored iron. Ideal: 40–100 ng/ml (especially for women).
2. Homocysteine
Elevated levels = poor B12, folate, or inflammation. This test gives you an early sign of aging + cognitive issues. Also read | 5 essential health checkups every Indian mom needs
3. hsCRP (high sensitivity CRP)
A direct measure of inflammation, often ignored in general checkups. If you have bloating, fatigue, autoimmune symptoms, test this!
4. Reverse T3 (for thyroid fatigue)
If your TSH is 'normal' but you feel off, this test checks if your thyroid hormones are actually usable by your cells.
5. Vitamin D3 and ionised calcium combo
Many Indian women have poor utilisation of D3, especially if vegetarian. This combo tells you if it's getting absorbed, not just present.
6. ApoB or Lp(a), beyond LDL
These advanced lipid markers tell you your actual heart risk, not just cholesterol numbers. Especially important if you have a family history of heart disease.
7. Gut health panel or zonulin
If you have skin issues, IBS, or mood swings, checking leaky gut or microbiome imbalance is underrated.
8. Fasting insulin
Many people have early insulin resistance without being diabetic. This test helps with fat loss and energy management. Ideal fasting insulin: 2–8 uIU/mL
9. Serum magnesium
Affects sleep, muscle function, cramps, cravings, PMS, anxiety. Magnesium deficiency is common in high-stress, vegetarian diets. Also read | 8 reasons why you should opt for prompt health check-ups without any delay
Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
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