Bloodwork can be very confusing.
Here are common tests that can be used to baseline your current state in regard to liver, cardiovascular, renal, and thyroid health.
It’s a smart idea to test 3-4 times per year and track your results. This way you can see how your internal state is changing in response to your lifestyle (or lack of it).
These are very high-level definitions and general. Some things like HDL and LDL alone are not great markers for overall heart health and/or longevity. They are meant to be a simple guide only. A qualified healthcare professional that is clued up will be able to clarify what they mean for you personally.
- AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase): It is an enzyme found primarily in the liver and heart. Elevated levels may indicate liver damage, hepatitis, or other conditions.
- ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase): This enzyme is also found predominantly in the liver. Increased levels may suggest liver injury or disease, such as hepatitis or cirrhosis.
- GGT (Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase): It is an enzyme found in various organs, including the liver and pancreas. Elevated levels may indicate liver or biliary tract dysfunction, alcohol abuse, or certain medications.
- HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein): It is often referred to as “good” cholesterol. High levels of HDL are considered beneficial as it helps remove cholesterol from the bloodstream.
- TSH (Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone): It is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that regulates the production of thyroid hormones. Abnormal levels may suggest thyroid disorders, such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.
- FT4 (Free Thyroxine): It is the active form of thyroid hormone. It is measured to assess thyroid function, especially in conjunction with TSH levels.
- LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein): It is often referred to as “bad” cholesterol. High levels of LDL are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases.
- Triglycerides: These are a type of fat found in the blood. Elevated levels are associated with an increased risk of heart disease.
- Total Cholesterol: It refers to the overall amount of cholesterol in the blood, including both HDL and LDL cholesterol.
- TC:HDL ratio: This ratio is calculated by dividing the total cholesterol (TC) level by the HDL cholesterol level. It is used as an indicator of cardiovascular risk, with lower ratios considered more favorable.
- PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen): It is a protein produced by the prostate gland. Elevated levels may suggest prostate conditions, including prostate cancer.
- Cortisol: It is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands that helps regulate stress response and metabolism. Testing cortisol levels can provide insights into adrenal function and certain medical conditions.
- hs-CRP (High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein): It is a marker of inflammation in the body. Elevated levels are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases.
- A1C (Glycated Hemoglobin): It measures the average blood sugar levels over a period of 2-3 months. It is commonly used to monitor and diagnose diabetes.
- Creatinine: It is a waste product produced by muscles that is filtered by the kidneys. Elevated levels may indicate kidney dysfunction.
- eGFR (Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate): It is a calculation used to estimate kidney function based on serum creatinine levels, age, sex, and other factors. It is used to assess kidney health and stage chronic kidney disease.
It’s important to note that while this information provides a general understanding, interpreting these tests and values should be done in consultation with a healthcare professional who can take into account individual medical history and other relevant factors.
Dripdok uses bloodwork alongside other healthcare metrics to baseline your current state and to determine an individual’s progress along the way.