Tue Apr 08 07:18:20 UTC 2025: ## Nutritionist Highlights Three Crucial Health Tests Every Indian Should Take

**New Delhi, [Date]** – Nutritionist Rashi Chowdhary is urging Indians to prioritize regular health checkups, highlighting three essential tests that can prevent serious health issues and significant medical costs down the line. In a recent Instagram video, Chowdhary emphasized the importance of early detection in managing conditions like diabetes and fatty liver disease, which are increasingly prevalent in India.

Chowdhary identifies three key tests:

**1. Vitamin D Test:** Citing statistics indicating that 70-90% of Indians are deficient in Vitamin D, Chowdhary stressed the vitamin’s crucial hormonal role in immunity, fertility, mood, and weight management. She warned that common medications like Metformin, Statins, and Tacits can accelerate Vitamin D depletion. The optimal level is between 60-70 ng/ml, and she advises taking supplements in the morning with fat.

**2. HbA1c & Fasting Insulin Test:** Chowdhary highlighted the alarming rise in diabetes in India, now affecting 130 million people. She warns of “silent diabetes,” characterized by dark patches on the neck, frequent sugar cravings, and afternoon fatigue, among other symptoms. Optimal HbA1c levels are below 5.3, and fasting insulin should be less than 5 mlU/L. Abnormal results indicate a need for dietary adjustments.

**3. Fatty Liver Screening:** Chowdhary points out that India is the world capital for Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD), affecting even those who aren’t overweight. A hard, protruding belly, even without excess weight, can signal fatty liver. She recommends checking ALT, AST, and Albumin levels, alongside an ultrasound, to assess liver fat percentage.

Chowdhary concludes that these three tests, along with regular check-ups, are vital preventative measures, saving individuals from future health struggles and financial burdens. She emphasizes that this information is for general knowledge and professional medical advice should always be sought.

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