High blood sugar and insulin levels can be an early sign of diabetes, a serious and potentially life-threatening disease. Increased activity and slight reductions in body fat can normalize sugar and insulin levels in individuals who are not yet diabetic. Blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Blood tests are typically performed at a physician's lab. Shopping centers, work sites and health fairs also frequently offer cholesterol checks.
Physical activity can reduce both cholesterol and triglycerides.
Your doctor can evaluate your fitness level using a treadmill and heart monitor. You can test your endurance to walk up a hill or stairs. Most people can improve their fitness level by slowly and steadily increasing physical activity and exercise. Moderate strength training, in a gym or at home, provides substantial added benefits. This fat can also strain the heart and disturb sleep.