Our bodies are sending us messages every day pertaining to our overall health. Learning to interpret those messages can help us pay attention to what our body is telling us that it needs.
Some signals that our body sends us, like pain, are more obvious than others. Pain is a definite sign that something is wrong. Unfortunately most of the signals our body sends us are much more subtle. Here are some signals that your body send you every day that you need to be paying attention to.
1. Urine
The first bladder void of the day can tell you more about you overall health than you would think. Paying attention to the color of your urine is the most important thing to note. A lighter, straw-colored urine indicates that you are well hydrated and healthy. Darker urine can indicate that you need more water of possibly have an infection. Also, the amount of urine you produce is important. When you are dehydrated your body doesn’t produce urine because it is holding as much water as possible. Changes in the smell, color or density of urine is often the first sign of health problems because urine is the by-product of your body removing toxins.
2. Teeth
Our mouths are the major gateway into our bodies, and therefore the first indication of health problems. For instance, if you notice that your gum bleed when you brush your teeth, there is a good chance that you have some form of gum disease. Gum disease can lead to other infections throughout the body, and are linked to several different medical conditions. Your teeth themselves can give signs of infection or disease as well. Teeth that crack or break can be a sign of acidosis, because a build up of acid – even the the saliva, can weaken teeth.
3. Weight
We all gain and lose weight throughout the year, but sudden weight loss or gain can be a sign of bigger problems. Sudden weight gain can be a sign of fluid retention, which indicated a problem with your heart or kidneys. If your heart is not functioning correctly, it leads to a build up up fluid, usually in the feet and lower legs that adds up to extra pounds. Losing weight dramatically is a sign that something could be wrong with your digestive system. When your body cannot break down the nutrients we put in our bodies, we begin to loose weight quickly.
4. Nails
The color and texture of our nails is a very obvious indicator of our health because our nails or dead cells being processed and expelled by the body. If your nails begin to turn yellow and thicken, that is a good sign of a fungal infection. Thin, brittle nails are a sign of calcium deficiencies that can effect several different aspects of health. Calcium in an essential nutrient in our body, so it is important to know when we don’t have enough.
5. Skin
Our skin is actually the largest organ of the human body. It is linked to everything going on inside of us. Noticing things like rashes, dark spots, growths, streaking, or changes in color are all signs that something is going on inside your body. After showering, take a second to inspect your skin and look for any changes.
6. Hair
Like your nails, your hair can show you exactly what is going on inside your body. Changes in hair color can indicate high stress levels. A change in the texture of your hair can be an indication that your body is not getting the nutrients it needs. Dry, thinning hair can be an indication of thyroid problems. Thinning hair in general is an indicator that something is going on in your body.
7. Body Odor
Everyone gives off a traceable amount of body odor, but excessive body odor can be a sign of infection. Changes in body chemistry can produce different changes in body odor as well. The best time to asses body odor is in the mornings, before showering and before applying any body scents like deodorant or perfume.
All of these signals your body is sending you are very important to pay attention to to regulate and maintain a high level of overall health.