1. Have you had your cholesterol checked recently?

The truth is some cholesterol is necessary for good health, but having too much cholesterol in your blood is a big danger as it can raise the risk of heart attack or stroke. The excess of cholesterol in your blood may be stored in your arteries and cause them to narrow, a disease called atherosclerosis. In case of large deposits an artery can be completely blocked so the blood can't flow through.

Women aged 45 and older and men aged 35 and older should have their cholesterol checked periodically, at least one time in a year. Your health care can decide you to have it checked more often, depending on what your cholesterol level is and what other risk factors for heart disease you have.

2. Do you exercise?

Physical activity rise up your metabolism, and eats up more calories. In addition, the more you exercise, the better the effect. Exercising builds muscle and bones, improve your breath and sustain your heart.

These days, exercising is not just a life style or a good sense. Many people use it as a status symbol. You often hear men and women discussing their workouts; exercise classes, cycling, working on the treadmills or weight machines.

There is not excuse for not exercising. Think that your health is an important part of your life, and should be a high priority.

3. Do you eat your veggies?

It is important to supply your body with the minimal levels of essential antioxidants and nutrients needed by each and every cell in your body to support optimal health.

Eat your veggies. But don't confine yourself to lettuce or salads! Darker greens have about the very low calories and carbs, but pack a lot more punch in the vitamins and nutrients. By substituting radicchio, escarole, watercress or spinach for the iceberg lettuce, you add vitamin C, riboflavin's, manganese and a lot of essential vitamins that lettuce doesn't contain. Try them steamed, braised or grilled for something a little different from the usual salad.

Valerian D is a freelance writer specialized in health issues and disease risk factors