From Dr. David Eifrig, MD, MBA, in Retirement Millionaire:
Catch the grim reaper five years before you die...
It's possible, according to a new study published in the PLOS Medicine journal.
A combination of specific biomarkers – molecules that measure stress, disease, or changes in your body – can predict if you're likely to die within a five-year period. Researchers measured the amounts of these four biomarkers and found they act as death predictors. Unfortunately, a single test for these biomarkers is far from becoming widely used.
But we don't need to wait for a single test. We can already measure these biomarkers.
Biomarker 1 – very-low-density lipoprotein – already shows up in our regular cholesterol blood tests. High levels increase your risk of heart disease.
Biomarker 2 is your A1C – a measure of how much glucose attaches to your red blood cells. High A1C readings indicate probable diabetes.
Biomarker 3 – albumin – is usually only tested for if you have signs of liver problems (or a feisty gallbladder). And
Biomarker 4 – citrate – is generally tested through urine instead of blood. Citrate levels indicate changes in pH, which can signal things like low levels of potassium.
Longtime subscribers know I'm not a fan of submitting to unnecessary tests. But these four tests show real value for protecting your health and extending your life. Your doctor may even be doing these tests... If so, you have a chance to catch serious problems early.
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