Preventive Care You Can Start Yourself

By: Grishma Bambhroliya, M.D.

Dr. Grishma Bambhroliya (pronounced: Bom-BROLE-yah) is Hackensack Meridian Mountainside Medical Group’s newest Primary Care Physician. Her passion for preventive medicine empowers patients to listen to their bodies and take charge of their total health. For those over the age of 50, she says, total health requires extra vigilance, and here she offers her top five tips for those entering their prime.

"As we get older," says Dr. Bambhroliya, "staying healthy does get harder, but it can go a lot easier if you focus on the right things. Here are five ways to improve your preventive health now."

One: Skin Health

As we age, our skin doesn't produce new cells as quickly as it used to, becoming less elastic and more prone to dryness. A consistent, effective skincare routine designed for your specific skin type and needs can give you benefits for years to come. Don't forget, daily SPF usage is important now more than ever. And consider UPF clothing, which blocks both UVA and UVB rays, for additional sun protection.

Two: Bone Health

When we are young, our bones continue developing and gaining strength until we're about 30. After that we experience a steady decline in bone density. Even though bone density loss is inevitable, we can decline at a slower rate if we have healthy levels of both Calcium and Vitamin D. You can achieve bone health through your diet, supplements, and moderate exposure to sunshine.

Three: Vaccines

Our vaccination needs and recommendations are different later in life. You probably already know that you need a flu shot every year. But the CDC also recommends that everyone 50 and older get the latest shingles vaccine. And after 65, it's also very important to get the pneumonia vaccine. Talk to your physician about your vaccination history, and what steps you might need to take to help prevent bigger problems.

Four: Diet

Stay away from the temptation of the latest trendy diet, and instead focus on making consistently healthy choices. High blood pressure can be a new issue later in life, so limit sodium intake after 50. Your primary care physician can give you recommendations on your current diet, but consider consultation from a registered dietician for an in-depth diet analysis and daily meal plan.

Five: Keeping Up

Overall, increase your vigilance about your health. We are all prone to diseases and conditions that might not have concerned us earlier in life, so yearly checkups with your primary care physician are still of utmost importance. But also be sure to stay up to date on procedures like colonoscopies or mammograms as recommended by your doctor. By keeping these five important things in minds as we age, aging can be a much healthier and more enjoyable experience.

If you are looking for a primary care physician in our area, Dr. Bambhroliya is welcoming new patients. To learn more about her or schedule an appointment, call (973) 837-8393 or visit www.mountainsidedocs.com.