This Mother’s Day, take the time to learn about something that affects her and could affect you too. See your mother’s health as an opportunity to improve the next generation. These questions could go a long way for a brighter and healthier future.
How’s your heart?
While you’re likely to know about any major cardiovascular events in mom’s life, like a heart attack, you might not know that high blood pressure runs back three or four generations in your family. If your mom has had a heart attack before the age of 60, that increases your risk anywhere from 25 to 50 per cent, experts say. Do the necessary test to know figure out if you have high blood pressure, high cholesterol or diabetes. Incorporate more heart-healthy foods into your regular diet, and be sure to get the about two-and-a-half hours of aerobic physical activity a week.
Have you ever had cancer?
If your mother has had breast, ovarian or colon cancer, your doctor may suggest certain screenings earlier than what’s typically recommended. Not everyone needs to take drastic preventive measures based solely on family history. Also, find out if other women in the family (aunts or grandparents) have had any form of cancer.
What was pregnancy like?
If your mom had a hard time conceiving, you may face trouble too. You may want to be tested for fertility problems earlier than other women. You might also inherit risks for certain pregnancy-related conditions like gestational diabetes or pre-eclampsia. Let your doctor know the details so they can work with you take steps to prevent complications. However, don’t worry too much as stressing about fertility might just fuel your stress hormones.
What was menopause like?
You can probably expect to reach menopause around the same time as mom did, and possibly to experience the same symptoms. Hot flashes, night sweats, difficulty sleeping — sometimes run in families. Your mother’s symptoms could be a warning of what’s to come, so take steps to try and ensure a smoother ride for yourself. Eat a diet rich in omega 3s, make sure your vitamin D levels are optimal, not just adequate and avoid excess alcohol.
Is there a history of mental illness in our family?
While perceptions are changing, the stigma surrounding mental health is still very real and was likely even more oppressive in your mother’s or grandmother’s generation. Bipolar disorder and depression seem to run in families, and knowing where you come from might help you get help. If you’re familiar with the issues common among your family, you’re more likely to reach out for help if needed.
Has your height changed recently?
While we often consider it a harmless sign of ageing, a shrinking stature is a common sign of poor bone health. We do inherit some things that predispose us to osteoporosis, but there are preventive measures to take, including exercising, eating low-fat dairy products or soy for bone-strengthening calcium and getting enough vitamin D.
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