Fasting blood tests

Drawing a blood sample for a blood test is probably not the most attractive thing in the world. Having someone insert a needle into your arm may be something that some people may dread, yet this is required if you care about your health. Doing a blood test is essential these days because it helps you prevent complicated diseases and learn more about your body. It's also increasingly accessible and inexpensive to buy blood tests on your own without having to pay for a doctor’s visit or get surprise medical bills in the future. However, how do you deal with the dreaded moment when you need to draw blood? Is there a way to make the process simpler and less stressful? Fortunately, there are a few tips and tricks that can help you. Keep reading to find out more. Schedule It Early in the Morning If you are going to do a blood test, you might want to schedule it early in the morning. This has numerous advantages. In most cases, different types of blood tests are done in the morning, especially if you're required to fast. So, when you wake up, you go to the clinic with a paper form in your hand and get it done. Once the blood test is drawn, you can have breakfast and enjoy the rest of your day. Try Not to Look at the Needle A lot of people are afraid of needles. Unfortunately, the phlebotomist needs to draw the blood using a syringe with a needle. In most cases, the needles are small, but some people are still afraid of them, and this is probably why they postpone doing blood tests in the first place. Still, there are ways you can reduce your anxiety levels. Most of this anxiety comes from the simple fact that a needle is going through your skin into the vein, and you see blood coming up in the syringe. What's the solution? Simply don't look at the needle. Find ways to distract yourself. For example, you can look the other way while talking with a doctor or a friend. You can also listen to music or even watch a video on your phone to keep yourself distracted. As long as you're not focusing on the needle, the process of drawing blood should be less stressful. Make Sure That You Fast if Necessary You should first know which blood tests need to be fasting the day before your blood test. Some blood tests require you to fast for about 12 hours before your blood is sampled. This means that you shouldn't eat or drink anything besides water before going to the clinic to give your blood sample. In some cases, you might also need to discontinue taking biotin for a few days before your test. For example, glucose tests fall into this category, as do other tests that check some of your hormones or enzymes. If you eat or drink before the test, the results might be inaccurate, and the diagnosis can be wrong. Make sure that you ask your doctor if you need to fast before the test and follow his or her instructions. If no fasting is required, do what makes you feel more comfortable, such as drinking your favorite coffee or eating something to reduce anxiety levels. Even if you are required to fast for about 8–12 hours before doing the test, it's recommended not to eat sweets or candy in the evening before doing the test. This type of food might spike your blood sugar levels too much before the test, and the result might be inaccurate. Drink Plenty of Water Whether you need to fast before a test or not, drinking water is essential and highly recommended. Staying hydrated will not alter test results, and it will make you feel more comfortable. On top of that, having sufficient water in your system also makes the veins look fuller, so the phlebotomist can draw blood easier. It's worth noting that drinking water will also bring the veins closer to the skin. This is great, as your doctor can find a good vein quicker and draw a blood sample with little to no effort. Your medical professional might also ask you to make a fist with the arm from which blood will be taken. This is usually required to make the veins pop out even more so the doctor can find them easier. Express Your Concerns If you have questions about your test or feel uneasy in any way, feel free to ask your doctor or phlebotomist. It's normal to express your concerns and try to find answers to questions you might have. For example, you can ask questions such as "does it hurt?" or "how long does it take to draw blood?" to reduce your anxiety and stress levels. The medical professionals are always happy to answer your questions and make you feel more comfortable. It's also possible to reschedule an appointment if you cannot arrive at the clinic on a certain day or order additional blood tests on top of the current one. Go Ahead and Order Your Discounted Lab Test Today! As you can see, there are many things you can do to reduce your anxiety and stress levels before drawing blood for a test. Keep in mind that even if taking a blood test scares you, this is one of the best ways to prevent further complications and learn more about your health. If you haven't decided which blood tests you should order, then explore the numerous affordable labs from reputable vendors, such as DiscountedLabs.com. Choose a test from this list of popular blood test panels and you're on the right track to a healthier you!   =================== References: 4 ways to stay calm during a blood test CMP Panel- CMP Comprehensive Metabolic Panel | Discounted Labs Elite Male Blood Test Panel  

How Long to Fast Before a Testosterone Blood Test: Do You Need To? About 5 million American men suffer from low testosterone levels. This is also known as hypogonadism and can have significant effects on your life. Hypogonadism (testosterone deficiency) is diagnosed by running multiple tests. Patients get one or more testosterone tests to measure their levels. But recent studies found out that your testosterone levels can be affected if the tests were done while fasting. In other words, having a meal before a testosterone test can change the results. Read on to find out more about the correlation between testosterone levels and fasting. How to Test for Low Testosterone? What is the correlation between fasting and testosterone? Study 1 - Testosterone went down significantly after an oral glucose load Study 2 - Eating a meal can lower testosterone levels by a lot Key Takeaway for Future Testosterone Testing Protocols About 5 million American men suffer from low testosterone levels. This is also known as hypogonadism and can have significant effects on your life. Hypogonadism (testosterone deficiency) is diagnosed by running multiple tests. Patients get one or more testosterone tests to measure their levels. But recent studies found out that your testosterone levels can be affected if the tests were done while fasting. In other words, having a meal before a testosterone test can change the results. Read on to find out more. What is a Testosterone Test? A testosterone test is a medical test to measure the level of testosterone in your blood. Testosterone is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands and gonads (ovaries in females and testes in males) that is important for the development and maintenance of male reproductive tissues, bone density and muscle mass. In females, testosterone is present in smaller amounts and helps in the growth and development of bones and muscles. Why is a Testosterone Test Performed? A testosterone test is performed to diagnose and monitor various medical conditions related to abnormal testosterone levels. The test can help identify: Testosterone Deficiency (Hypogonadism): In males, low testosterone levels can cause low sex drive, fatigue, and decreased muscle mass. Testosterone Excess (Hyperandrogenism): In females, high testosterone levels can cause excessive hair growth, acne, and irregular menstrual cycles. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): This common endocrine disorder in females is characterized by high testosterone and androgen excess. Adrenal Gland Disorders: Conditions like Cushing’s syndrome can cause abnormal testosterone production. Monitoring Therapy: It’s also used to monitor testosterone levels in individuals undergoing testosterone replacement therapy or androgen deprivation therapy. Preparing for a Testosterone Test To prepare for a testosterone test: Schedule the Test in the Morning: Testosterone levels are highest in the morning, so schedule your test early in the day. Fasting: Don’t eat or drink anything but water for at least 8 hours before the test. Fasting will give you accurate results. Inform Your Doctor: Tell your doctor about any medications or supplements you are taking, as they may affect testosterone levels. Wear Comfortable Clothes: Wear loose and comfortable clothes and avoid tight sleeves that may make it hard to draw blood. Plan Your Visit: You will be at the testing facility for about 30 minutes, but the blood draw will only take a few minutes. By doing these you can get the most accurate testosterone test results. How to Diagnose Low Testosterone? Testosterone levels are highest in the morning for all healthy males. They start to drop after 11 am and continue to drop towards the end of the day. Testosterone tests are done in the morning because that’s when the levels are highest. If a person sees the classic signs of low testosterone, a test might be required to check this out. These signs are low sex drive, poor concentration, fatigue and even depressive symptoms. But multiple tests are needed to confirm if the person is hypogonadal or not. A testosterone levels test measures the amount of testosterone in a blood sample. For example, your doctor might check your FSH and LH levels. These hormones are produced by the pituitary gland and trigger the testosterone and sperm production in the testicles. Depending on the lab, a healthy male should have a testosterone measurement between 350 ng/dl and 1,250 ng/dL. If below 350 ng/dl and you have low testosterone symptoms, you might be considered hypogonadal. Testosterone levels vary depending on the time of day, diet, age, fitness level and other factors. As mentioned earlier, testosterone tests are done in the morning when testosterone is at its peak. Labs and doctors don’t require patients to fast before a testosterone test. But some studies suggest that fasting before a testosterone test can affect the results. What’s the connection between Fasting and Testosterone Levels? In simple terms, fasting means not eating for a certain period of time, usually 8 to 12 hours. This also includes not drinking anything that makes your organs work to process them, like drinks, milk, etc. Many blood tests require patients to fast before drawing a sample. A standard glucose test is a good example of this. If you eat something and then do a glucose test, you might be labeled as diabetic. That’s because your body didn’t get a chance to process the glucose in your blood, and it will show up in the test. Scientists believe that fasting is also important when testing testosterone through blood tests. In short, eating before your test will temporarily lower your testosterone levels. This can lead to a false diagnosis of hypogonadism if your normal T level is around 400-500 ng/dL. Such findings also mean retesting subjects who were initially diagnosed with low testosterone. Let’s look at a few studies and see the correlation between fasting and testosterone tests in more detail. You’ll see how a glucose load or a full meal can affect the total and bioavailable testosterone levels hours after ingestion. Study 1 - Testosterone Decreased Significantly After an Oral Glucose Load This study was done on 74 men. The average age of the participants was around 50, give or take a few years. The study was done in 2012, and it was a standard 75-g oral glucose tolerance test. An oral glucose tolerance test measures how well your body can process glucose in the blood after you drink a sweet drink they give you at the lab. If you process it fast, your glucose tolerance is good. If it takes too long to process, it’s usually associated with diabetes or other health problems. Almost 60% of the men in the study had normal glucose tolerance. More than 10% were newly diagnosed with diabetes, and about 30% had impaired glucose tolerance. Blood was drawn from each participant at the start of the study and at 30, 60, 90, and 120 minutes, respectively. Other hormones and substances were also measured, such as insulin, leptin, sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), and total testosterone levels. None of these individuals had low testosterone at the start of the study. But the results were surprising. The study showed that testosterone levels decreased by 25% after glucose ingestion. That’s a big drop considering most of the participants had normal glucose tolerance. To put it into perspective, if an individual starts with an average testosterone level of 500 ng/dl, a 25% decrease would bring him down to 375 ng/dl. That’s close to the bottom of the normal testosterone range. Interestingly, the testosterone suppression was still present after 120 minutes when blood samples were drawn for the last time. 10 of the participants could qualify for hypogonadism at the end of the study as their testosterone levels went below the baseline. This study shows how important it is to test for testosterone in a fasted state. A simple glucose load can lower total testosterone levels and qualify someone for hypogonadism. Study 2 - Eating a Meal Can Decrease Testosterone Levels Let’s look at another study that shows the correlation between testosterone levels and fed or fasting state. This study shows how a 550-calorie meal of protein, fat and carbohydrates can affect testosterone levels. 11 healthy men participated in this study. They were non-smokers, had no medical treatment, and had normal BMI. The average age was 43 years, and they had no significant medical history. In the first part of the study, the participants were given a 550-calorie meal of buttermilk, cheese, ham, orange juice, and other foods. Blood was drawn at various intervals. The study also measured other hormones such as LH, SHBG, and glucose. Free testosterone, the unbound fraction and biologically active, was also measured. The participants finished the meal in about 15 minutes. The foods were varied, as the study designers wanted to mimic a meal that most men would eat on a daily basis. Before the meal, the participants were told to fast for 12 hours. They were also instructed not to have sex or do any strenuous exercise that would affect their testosterone levels. The same procedure was repeated a few weeks later with the same participants. This time they only fasted for 12 hours and didn’t eat after. Blood was drawn in the fasting state, and all other parameters were the same. When the two experiments were compared, the results were striking. In both groups, the initial fasting testosterone levels were the same. LH and SHBG were unchanged. But in the fed group, testosterone levels decreased 15 minutes after meal ingestion. And 30 minutes after the meal. Other hormones and parameters were the same; just total and bioavailable testosterone levels went down. Upon reviewing the results, the experts found out that the decrease in testosterone was 30%. This was true for all participants with no exceptions. This study shows how testing for testosterone in a fasted state is different from testing in a fed state. Takeaway for Future Testosterone Testing Protocols The scientific literature on sexual medicine says that food intake can affect testosterone levels. But the standard testosterone test protocol doesn’t require fasting before the test. The studies above open up a potentially big change in how testosterone tests are done. Also, there was no significant difference in LH, SHBG, and other hormones among the participants. This means the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular (HPT) axis was not really affected by food or glucose intake, but testosterone production was. It’s believed that insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas when we eat to process glucose, can temporarily decrease testosterone production at the testicular level. If you think you have low testosterone, order these testosterone tests online at an affordable price and see how your hormones are doing.   References : Testosterone decrease after a mixed meal in healthy men independent of SHBG and gonadotropin levels. Andrologia. Volume 44, Issue 6 December 2012. Pages 405-410. Abrupt decrease in serum testosterone levels after an oral glucose load in men: implications for screening for hypogonadism. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2013 Feb;78(2):291-6. Testosterone Test - Testing.com Testosterone as a Fasting Blood Test? - Grand Rounds in Urology Testosterone blood test – how to prepare for your blood test | healthdirect Is a fasting testosterone level really necessary for the determination of androgen status in men? - PubMed

Analyzing a simple blood sample can give you useful information about your health. It’s a simple and fast process. It saves you money and helps stop serious diseases. You can order blood tests from trusted online sources for accurate results. A form will be sent to you. This form lets you go to a local clinic or lab to draw your blood. Then, your blood is tested, and you will get the results in just a few business days. There are many helpful blood tests you can take to check your health and look for health issues. For instance, you can know if your blood sugar level is high, how your thyroid hormones are doing, or how much protein is in your blood. A lot of these types of tests need you to fast beforehand. This is something you should be aware of before having the test. Some common tests that may need fasting include the routine physical, blood glucose test, cholesterol test (lipid panel), triglyceride level test, serum iron test, vitamin B12 test, vitamin B complex test, renal function panel, and gamma-glutamyl transferase test. Fasting for Blood Work: Why Is It Needed? People need to fast before several blood tests. This is important because some foods and drinks can change the hormones in your blood. If you do not fast, the blood test results may not be correct. This can lead to the doctor making a wrong diagnosis. If you eat something and then have a blood glucose test, your blood sugar levels could be very high. Based on your blood test results, the doctor might say that you have diabetes. The body digests food and turns it into sugar called glucose. For the cells to take in this glucose, the pancreas releases insulin. A few hours later, the insulin helps the cells absorb the sugar from the blood. Your glucose levels will readjust to normal. It is important to fast before certain blood tests. This helps the doctor find the usual hormone levels in your blood. If these levels are not normal when you are fasting, you might need treatment for your condition. What Tests Commonly Require Fasting? At this moment, you might be asking, “What blood tests require fasting?" Not every blood test needs it, but some definitely do. Here are a few blood tests that require you to fast. Not everyone needs to fast before a blood test. However, some blood tests may need you to fast. These tests usually include: 1. Blood Glucose Test This test is very common and works as mentioned earlier. It helps the doctor find out the real sugar level in the body. Patients should not eat or drink anything except water for 9 to 10 hours before taking the test. 2. Cholesterol Test Measuring cholesterol levels in the body is very important. It helps to find out different types of diseases, especially heart-related ones. Cholesterol is a waxy substance that coats the inside of blood vessels. It helps keep the blood vessels flexible. But too much cholesterol can lead to blockages in veins and arteries. A clear sign of high cholesterol levels is high blood pressure. Cholesterol has two main types: LDL and HDL. LDL cholesterol is often called the "bad" kind. High levels of LDL cholesterol can be harmful to your health. HDL cholesterol is known as the "good" cholesterol. High levels of HDL are beneficial. A regular blood test can check your HDL and LDL cholesterol levels. With this information, your doctor can suggest changes, often about your diet and exercise plan. 3. Triglyceride Test Triglycerides are a type of fat found in the human body. They act differently than cholesterol. Cholesterol helps build cells and is important for making hormones. In contrast, triglycerides are used for energy when the body needs it. Each person uses calories every day. Calories from food or drinks that are not used turn into triglycerides. These are kept in fat cells. When the body needs more energy, it takes fat from these cells and changes the triglycerides back into energy. Having too many triglycerides in the body can be harmful. They can thicken the walls of your arteries. This leads to high blood pressure and heart disease. Over time, very high levels of triglycerides can cause heart attacks and other heart problems. 4. Liver Test Your liver does about 500 tasks in your body, based on some recent studies. Its main job is to clean your blood. It also helps with digestion and metabolism. Fasting is needed before a liver function blood test. This helps stop food from affecting the blood hormones. A liver test can tell if there is any liver damage like liver disease. It checks if the liver makes the right hormones in the right amounts. It also shows how many B vitamins are stored in the liver. The test can find out if a patient has any kind of hepatitis too. 5. Metabolic Panel Test A metabolic test checks various enzymes, electrolytes, and hormones in your body. It looks at substances like sodium, potassium, albumin (a protein), bilirubin, calcium, carbon dioxide, alanine transaminase, and others. Keeping a balance of certain substances in your body is important. For example, too much sodium can make your blood acidic. This condition can lead to several diseases. Likewise, not having enough calcium can cause your bones to weaken. This can make you more likely to have fractures and osteoporosis. You have to fast before a metabolic blood test. This is important because some foods have the substances that will be tested. If you eat or drink anything other than water before the test, it could change the results negatively. This might lead to a wrong diagnosis. 6. Kidneys Test The kidneys are important organs in our body. They, like the liver, help filter out toxins and remove them. The kidneys have many functions. If they are hurt, they can even take on tasks from other organs. A kidney blood test checks several important substances and hormones in the kidneys. One key part of this test is the glomerular filtration rate. This shows how well your kidneys filter out toxins. Before the test, you can only drink water. Eating or drinking anything else could overwork your kidneys. 7. Iron Blood Test All people need a small amount of iron in their blood to stay healthy and feel energetic every day. A blood test can check how much iron is stored in your body. If you do not have enough iron, you may feel very tired and could develop anemia, which is a condition that causes extreme fatigue. Iron is often in many different foods. Eating these foods before a blood test can raise your iron levels, which might give a wrong result. That’s why you need to fast for at least 8 to 10 hours before getting an iron blood test. Keep in mind that some supplements you take, like multivitamins, may have iron in different amounts. You should stop taking these vitamins and minerals for at least 1-2 days before the test. 8. Vitamin B12 Test Vitamin B12, which is also called cobalamin, helps with the metabolism of nearly all the cells in our body. You can find it in many foods and drinks. This makes it simple to get a good amount of vitamin B12 in one meal, especially if you enjoy eating vegetables and legumes. This vitamin is very important for the nervous system. People who don’t get enough vitamin B12 and other B vitamins often get illnesses that affect their nervous system. If you need to have a vitamin B12 blood test, make sure not to eat or drink anything for at least 6 to 8 hours before the test. 9. Heavy Metals Panel You can also test how many heavy metals are in your body. Some metals can harm your health if they are too high. For instance, arsenic, mercury, cadmium, and lead are common heavy metals found in people. Some of these metals move through the blood, while others stick to bones and organs. If they are in high amounts, they can cause poisoning and, in severe cases, death. A blood test can help you find out how bad your heavy metal issue is. It can also show if you need treatment or detox. You can't eat or drink before your blood test, especially if you are taking prescription medications. This is because some foods have heavy metals. Sardines can have high levels of arsenic, no matter where they come from. Other fish and seafood can have a lot of mercury too. It is best to fast for at least 8 to 10 hours before the heavy metal blood test. 10. Hormone Tests Food can raise insulin levels in the blood. This rise can lower hormones like testosterone, IGF-1, thyroid, and more. If you are on TRT, fasting has no impact on your testosterone level, however. Fasting for Blood Work Q&A - Answering Some of Your Questions Now you know about fasting for blood work, you may still have some questions. Many people have questions about the type of test and fasting. It’s important to answer these questions. For example, what is fasting blood work? Why do you need it? How long should you fast before a blood test? This article will answer these questions and more about fasting for blood work. 1. Can I Drink Coffee, Alcohol, or Smoke During My Fasting for Blood Work? No, you can't drink coffee, even black coffee, without sugar. Coffee has enzymes that can affect your liver and your hormone levels. You should avoid drinking coffee before a blood test. Smoking is not allowed. It can harm your glucose levels and raise heavy metal levels in your body. The best choice is to quit smoking completely. This will make you feel much healthier. You should not drink any alcoholic drinks if you are concerned about liver health and liver enzymes. This is important because alcohol can raise your glucose levels and cause inflammation in your body. It is best to avoid alcohol for at least 1-2 days before a blood test. This is because the body needs time to get rid of alcohol. You should also avoid smoking when fasting for blood work. Smoking can mess with your results, especially your hemoglobin levels. 2. Can I Chew Gum or Brush My Teeth Before the Test? Chewing gum is not allowed. It affects how your body makes digestive fluids. The sweetness of the gum can also change your blood sugar level. Instead of chewing gum, you can brush your teeth, as long as you don’t swallow anything. If you swallow toothpaste, it may trigger hormones and enzymes in your body, so be careful with that. 3. Can I Exercise While I’m Fasting? Ideally, no. This is true unless you are doing very light exercises that don’t use weights. Exercising often raises the inflammation levels in your body. For instance, intense workouts like lifting weights or sprinting can increase C-reactive protein levels. This protein is a sign of inflammation. If you take an inflammation test while exercising, the results may not be correct. Vigorous exercise can raise your testosterone and human growth hormone levels for a short time. If you take a blood test after working out, the results for these hormones may be wrong. This can lead to mistakes in the doctor’s diagnosis. Additionally, working out makes you feel hungry. However, if you are fasting, you can't eat anything. Not eating after exercising can make you feel dizzy and cause other issues. It's better to avoid the gym the day before your blood test. 4. For How Long Should I Fast? As a general rule, the first thing you should do is fast for at least 8 hours of fasting before a blood test. Many doctors plan these tests for early in the morning. This way, you are asleep for most of the fasting time. Sometimes, you may need to fast for 10 or 12 hours, or even a longer period of time. Your doctor will tell you if this is necessary. You might also have to stop taking biotin supplements for 72 hours before a blood glucose test. For some tests, like a direct LDL cholesterol test, a longer fast of 14 hours may be needed. It is important to follow your doctor's advice about how long to fast before your specific blood test. 5. What If I Accidentally Ate Before a Fasting Blood Test? It is common for patients, including pregnant people, to forget they are fasting and eat or drink something by mistake. If this happens, it's not a big deal, but you should tell your healthcare provider before the test. They will think about this when looking at the blood test results. In some rare cases, you might be able to change your blood test appointment if it has been a long time since you ate or drank. Remember, liquids like fruit juice, teas, and sodas should be avoided while fasting to get good test results, which is a good idea. After the blood test, feel free to enjoy your cup of coffee or have a snack! 6. Should I Take My Meds/Vitamins During My Fast? As a basic guideline, the answer is no. This is because your medications and supplements may have ingredients that could change the hormones in your body. This means that the test results might be impacted, leading to an incorrect diagnosis. Tell your doctor about the medications and vitamins you are taking. Ask if you should stop taking these while you fast. This way, you will know what to do. 7. What are Some Tips to Make Fasting for Blood Work Easier? Fasting for blood work can be tough. Here are a few tips to help make it easier: Plan your fasting time carefully: Schedule your blood work for early morning. This way, you can get a good night's sleep and reduce the time without food. Stay hydrated: Drink a lot of water while you fast. But, avoid other drinks like coffee, tea, or juice. They could affect your blood test results. Distract yourself: Keep busy during your fasting time. This can help you think less about food. Try reading, watching movies, or taking a walk. Dress comfortably: Wear loose and comfy clothes to your blood work appointment. This will make you feel better during the test. Talk to your healthcare provider: If fasting is hard for you or you have worries about it, let your healthcare provider know. They might give you helpful advice or adapt things to fit your needs. Fasting before blood work is important. It helps make sure the test results are correct. You can follow these tips to make fasting easier. Stay positive, and you will get through it successfully. Get Your Blood Test Today! Did you know you can now buy fasting blood tests online? These are called direct-to-consumer labs. They are often affordable. You do not need to see a doctor or get a prescription. You will get your results in just a few business days. Visit DiscountedLabs.com to see the popular blood tests available. Some of these tests may need you to fast beforehand. They will help you understand your health better. References: Blood Tests - NHLBI Diabetes Testing - CDC Iron Tests - MedlinePlus Triglycerides Test - MedlinePlus Blood Glucose Test - MedlinePlus Fasting for a Blood Test - MedlinePlus Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP)—MedlinePlus Effect of dehydration on blood tests  

Key Highlights A fasting insulin test measures how much insulin is in your body after you haven't eaten for some time. It helps to show how your body uses energy. It helps to check for insulin resistance. This means your cells do not react well to insulin. High fasting insulin levels can lead to problems like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and weight gain. On the other hand, very low insulin levels may indicate issues like type 1 diabetes or problems with your pancreas. Knowing your fasting insulin test results can help you make better health choices in diet and lifestyle. Introduction The fasting blood insulin test is a good method to check your metabolic health. This test measures how much insulin is in your blood after a period of not eating. It can help find signs of insulinoma. The results show how well your body manages blood sugar. This is important to avoid issues like insulin resistance and other health problems. Understanding Insulin and Its Role in the Body The pancreas is near your stomach and produces a hormone named insulin. Insulin is important for controlling blood glucose levels. Blood glucose serves as the main energy source for the cells in your body. When you eat, your body breaks down carbohydrates. This process turns them into glucose. The glucose then enters your bloodstream and alters your blood levels. If your blood glucose levels rise, the pancreas releases insulin. Insulin works like a key. It helps glucose get into your cells. This provides them with energy or stores it for later use. The Function of Insulin in Glucose Regulation The best way to keep your blood glucose level steady starts when you eat carbohydrate-rich foods. As your body breaks down these carbohydrates, it puts glucose into your bloodstream. This process causes your glucose level to rise. When this happens, the beta cells in your pancreas start working. They send insulin into your bloodstream. The insulin then moves through your body. It connects to receptors on different cells, especially in your muscles and fat tissue. When insulin attaches to these cells, it tells them to take in glucose from the blood. This helps lower your blood glucose level. As the glucose enters the cells, the amount in the blood decreases, and this slows down insulin secretion. This process helps keep everything in balance. How Insulin Affects Your Metabolic Health Insulin is important for a healthy metabolism. When our cells do not respond to insulin properly, we have a problem called insulin resistance. This can cause high levels of insulin in the bloodstream. High insulin levels can create various metabolic issues. Too much glucose can become fat tissue. This can lead to weight gain and obesity. Insulin resistance is important in metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome is a set of health issues. It can raise the chances of serious problems. These problems include heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. This means there is a higher risk for these serious conditions. Keeping your insulin sensitivity high is crucial. Insulin sensitivity means how well your cells respond to insulin. A good insulin sensitivity helps you stay healthy and lowers the chances of long-term diseases. The Importance of the Fasting Blood Insulin Test The fasting blood insulin test shows how well your body controls blood sugar. This test is simple to do. It measures your insulin levels after you have not eaten for a while. This helps prevent any changes caused by recent meals. Watching your fasting insulin levels is very important. When you mix this with other tests for your metabolism, you can spot issues early. This helps you take action fast and avoid serious health problems. Identifying Insulin Resistance Early Insulin resistance is a serious health issue. It often occurs before someone develops type 2 diabetes and other metabolism problems. A fasting insulin test can find insulin resistance early. High levels of fasting insulin, even when blood glucose levels are normal, can show that the body makes too much insulin. This extra insulin helps when the cells do not respond well. Recognizing this early can help you take action. It can improve insulin resistance and lower the risk of health problems. When healthcare providers know about your insulin resistance, they can suggest lifestyle changes. This might include changing your diet and getting more exercise. These changes can help improve insulin sensitivity and stop serious metabolic problems from developing. Predicting Diabetes and Other Metabolic Disorders High insulin levels can damage the beta cells in your pancreas over time. These cells are crucial because they produce insulin. If they don’t function properly, your blood sugar levels can stay high. This is an important sign of diabetes mellitus. The fasting blood insulin test helps see if you could get diabetes. It can also identify other problems linked to insulin resistance. One of these problems is called polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS. Knowing your risks and keeping an eye on your metabolic health can help you make better choices. This can assist you in managing your weight. It can also help prevent or slow down problems like diabetes and PCOS. Preparing for Your Fasting Blood Insulin Test Preparing for an insulin test is simple. Your healthcare provider will probably ask you to fast. This means you should avoid eating or drinking anything with calories for at least 8 hours before your test. It is important to follow these instructions to get clear test results. If you have health problems or take any medications, please speak with your healthcare provider. They will give you advice that fits your needs. Dietary and Lifestyle Considerations In the days before your insulin test, try to eat healthy. Don't change your diet suddenly. A balanced diet that includes some carbs can help keep your blood sugar levels steady. Getting regular exercise can help improve insulin sensitivity. This may lead to better results for your metabolic health. However, keep in mind not to do intense workouts just before the test. It's important to tell your healthcare provider if you have gained weight or made big changes to your lifestyle. These changes can affect your insulin levels and your overall health. Your healthcare provider needs this information to understand your test results properly. What to Expect on the Day of the Test Make sure to stick to the fasting rules your healthcare provider gave you for the day of your fasting blood insulin test. Normally, you can drink water while you are fasting. At the test, a healthcare professional will use a needle to take a small blood sample from a vein in your arm. After that, you can eat and drink as normal. Your healthcare provider will set up a follow-up visit or reach out to you. They will talk about your test results. They will help you understand what these results mean for your health. Interpreting Your Test Results You need to go over your fasting blood insulin test results with your healthcare provider. Normal insulin levels can vary. This can depend on the lab you use and things like your age, gender, and general health. Your healthcare provider will look at your health history, lifestyle, and any other test results. This will help them give you clear advice that fits your situation. Understanding the Reference Range Fasting blood insulin test results are usually shown in microunits per milliliter (µIU/mL). This test looks at how well your body controls blood sugar after you fast for a while. One insulin test result is only a short look at your metabolic health. If you take several tests over time, you can understand your insulin levels better. This can show how they may change. It is very important to talk about your test results with your healthcare provider. They can help you understand what the results mean for your health. They can also suggest any follow-up tests you might need or changes to your lifestyle. What Do High or Low Levels Indicate? Abnormal insulin levels can be either too high or too low. These levels can indicate underlying health issues that should be checked. Here’s a simple overview of what high or low insulin levels might mean: Insulin Levels Potential Indication High Insulin Insulin resistance, prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, certain medications Low Insulin Type 1 diabetes, pancreatic disorders, hypopituitarism A blood glucose test is often done along with an insulin production test. This is important because it helps show your overall metabolic health. If your insulin levels are not normal, it's a good idea to speak with your healthcare provider. They can help you find the reason and talk about ways to manage your health. Managing Abnormal Insulin Levels Managing unusual insulin levels requires checking different factors. This helps identify the problem and improve insulin sensitivity. It’s vital to change your lifestyle. A healthy lifestyle can help control insulin levels. This also prevents metabolic problems from arising. A balanced diet is important. Regular exercise is good for you. It's crucial to maintain a healthy weight. Getting enough sleep matters as well. Lifestyle Changes for Improved Insulin Sensitivity Improving insulin sensitivity is key for keeping blood glucose levels under control. It can help stop metabolic issues. You can make lifestyle changes. These changes will help your body work better with insulin. A good way to start is by eating a healthy diet. This diet should have lots of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean meats. You might also want to take a chromium supplement. It is important to stay away from processed foods, sugary drinks, and unhealthy fats. Regular exercise is very important too. Activities that engage your skeletal muscle, like brisk walking, jogging, or strength training, can really help improve insulin sensitivity. Managing stress is important. Getting enough sleep is also key. Quitting smoking can help too. Making these changes can improve insulin sensitivity. They can make your overall metabolic health better. When to Consult a Healthcare Professional If you feel any symptoms of hypoglycemia, like dizziness, confusion, heavy sweating, or a fast heartbeat, you should see your healthcare provider right away. This is even more important if these symptoms occur after fasting or exercising. If someone in your family has diabetes, obesity, or any health issues related to metabolism, it is very important to get help from a healthcare professional. This is also true if you have had bad blood glucose or insulin test results. It is important to find and manage insulin problems early. This can help to avoid serious health issues. A healthcare provider can suggest ways to improve your metabolic health. They can also assist you in lowering the risk of long-term health problems. Conclusion In conclusion, understanding how insulin works and what the fasting insulin test is can help you keep track of your metabolic health. If you detect insulin resistance early, you can notice issues like diabetes before they happen. Adjusting your lifestyle can truly make a difference. Knowing how to read your test results is very important. It helps manage your insulin levels if they are not normal. You can do this by making lifestyle changes that are good for your health. Always talk to a healthcare professional for advice that suits your needs. Keep your health as a priority. Stay informed and take action about your metabolic health. Frequently Asked Questions What is the Ideal Fasting Time Before Taking the Test? Your healthcare provider may tell you to fast for at least 8 hours before your insulin test. Fasting is important because it makes sure that the food you ate doesn’t affect your blood glucose and insulin levels. This practice helps to get more accurate test results. What is the Normal Insulin Level? Fasting insulin levels are vital for your health. They help show how well your body manages blood sugar levels. A normal fasting insulin level is usually between 2.6 and 24.9 microIU/mL. It is important to talk to a healthcare provider to understand what your results mean and how they connect to your health and medical background. High fasting insulin levels may indicate insulin resistance, which could lead to type 2 diabetes. Low levels might point to an issue with the pancreas or hypoglycemia. To maintain healthy fasting insulin levels, focus on eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and managing stress. Regular visits to a healthcare professional can help you improve your fasting insulin levels and support your overall health. Are there any factors that can affect the accuracy of a fasting blood insulin test? Many things can affect how accurate a fasting blood insulin test is. Here are some of these factors: Time of day: Insulin levels change throughout the day. For the best results, have the test in the morning after fasting overnight. Diet and exercise: A meal that is high in carbohydrates or sugar before the test can change insulin levels. Doing intense exercise right before the test can also affect the results. Medications: Some medicines, such as corticosteroids, diuretics, and certain psychiatric drugs can change insulin levels. You must tell your healthcare provider about any medications you take. Medical conditions: Conditions like diabetes, obesity, pcos (polycystic ovary syndrome), and liver disease can impact insulin levels. This may make the test less accurate. Stress and illness: Being under stress or sick can change insulin levels. If you feel unwell or stressed, it is a good idea to reschedule the test. To get good results from an insulin test, you need to follow your healthcare provider’s advice. It is also important to tell them about your lifestyle and health. References The Role of Inflammation in Cardiovascular Disease The Impact of Physical Activity on Health Cardiovascular Disease Prevention and Management Effects of Diet on Cardiovascular Health        

Table of Contents What Tests Are Included in the CMP? What Are the Consequences of High or Low CMP Lab Test Values? Alanine aminotransferase (ALT, SGPT) Low AST or SGPT Albumin Normal albumin values When albumin is very low: Alkaline phosphatase ALP (Adults) ALP Normal values High ALP Low ALP Aspartate aminotransferase (AST, SGOT) AST or SGOT normal levels High AST or SGOT   Bilirubin, direct Bilirubin normal values High direct albumin Low direct bilirubin   Bilirubin, total Total bilirubin normal values High total bilirubin   Calcium Calcium normal values High calcium Low calcium   Carbon dioxide, total High carbon dioxide Low carbon dioxide   Chloride High Chloride Low Chloride Creatinine Creatinine normal levels High creatinine Low creatinine Glucose normal values High glucose Low glucose Potassium Potassium normal values Low Potassium High Potassium Sodium Sodium normal values High sodium Low sodium What Tests Are Included in the CMP?   The Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) is a broad screening tool includes 14 tests that evaluate your liver, kidneys, and more to provide a picture of your overall health. The panel looks at your organ function, electrolytes, blood sugar, and blood proteins. Along with the CBC and lipid panels, CMP is the most commonly ordered lab test panel when you go to see your doctor for an annual physical exam. The CMP includes tests for: • Liver function (ALP, ALT, AST, Bilirubin) • Kidney function (BUN, Creatinine) • Electrolytes and fluid balance (Sodium, Potassium, Carbon Dioxide, Chloride) • Proteins (Albumin, Total Protein) • Blood sugar (Glucose) • Calcium   What Are the Consequences of High or Low CMP Lab Test Values?   We will now explain the potential causes for high or low blood levels of these variables so that  you can discuss them with your physician.   Alanine aminotransferase (ALT, SGPT) Included in the CMP panel ALT normal values are: 10-55 U/liter for males 10-55 U/liter for females Alanine aminotransferase is an enzyme made by your liver. ALT is important to test to determine whether your liver is performing at its best. High ALT or SGPT The liver cells might be seriously damaged, to the point of necrosis It might be a sign of extensive trauma to the liver, left heart failure, cirrhosis, or jaundice Might also be a sign of muscular dystrophy, fatty liver, myocardial infarction, and liver tumors Low AST or SGPT Low values of ALT indicate pyridoxal phosphate deficiency that can result in various health complications including epilepsy   Albumin Included in the CMP panel Normal albumin values 3.1-4.3 g/dl for men and women Albumin is a protein synthesized by the liver and can be an indicator of the liver’s synthetic ability. However, because it has a long half-life of 20-30 days, and levels often remain normal even in acute disease, it is not always useful in assessing acute hepatic injury. Albumin is one of the most important proteins in the human body. It helps to carry nutrients to various tissues and it prevents blood vessels from leaking fluids. When albumin is very low: This is a sign of acute or chronic inflammation Decreased albumin levels can occur in chronic diseases such as cirrhosis, cancer and malnutrition. Albumin levels might drop if the liver has problems synthesizing this protein properly, so it might indicate liver damage The transportation of bile acids and metal ions might be affected if the albumin levels get too low   Alkaline phosphatase ALP (Adults) Included in the CMP panel Alkaline phosphatase is also known as ALP and it is found in different tissues in the body. This enzyme is mostly present in the bones and liver. It plays a vital role in bone formation and mineralization. ALP Normal values 45-115 U/liter for males 30-100 U/liter for females High ALP It might be a sign of biliary obstruction or liver diseases such as hepatitis or cirrhosis Sign of bone disorder or even renal problems In some cases, it might indicate thyroid issues Low ALP It might signify nutritional deficiencies such as a lack of vitamin B12, magnesium or zinc Might be caused by severe anemia   Aspartate aminotransferase (AST, SGOT) Included in the CMP panel AST or SGOT normal levels 10-40 U/liter for men 9-25 U/liter for women Aspartate aminotransferase is an enzyme found in most tissues in the human body, particularly in the liver and the heart. It has multiple functions in the human body and abnormal levels usually indicate a liver problem. High AST or SGOT This could be a sign of liver cell necrosis or obstructive jaundice It might also signify hepatitis or a liver problem caused by drugs and medications Since this enzyme is found in the muscles, it might be a sign of skeletal muscle, inflammatory disease or even heart failure. Excessive exercise can raise it. Normally, the levels of aspartate aminotransferase should be low. Problems appear when these levels get very high due to organ failure or inflammation.   Bilirubin, direct Included in the CMP panel Bilirubin normal values 0-0.4 mg/dl for men and women Bilirubin is a yellow substance involved in the process of cleaning organic waste from the body such as dead red blood cells, etc. It is excreted in the bile and urine and it consists of direct and total bilirubin. When doing a blood test, your results might indicate the levels of direct and total bilirubin as both of these are important to diagnose certain diseases. High direct albumin It might signify a biliary tree obstruction, cholestasis, and damage to the hepatic cells The patient might have the Dubin-Johnson syndrome which is characterized by an increase of direct bilirubin in the liver Low direct bilirubin Low levels of direct bilirubin are usually not a cause of concern. These levels might be temporarily lowered by caffeine consumption or barbiturates   Bilirubin, total Total bilirubin normal values 0-1.0 mg/dl for men and women This is the total amount of bilirubin enzymes in your body, including direct and indirect ones. Low levels of total bilirubin are not a problem in most cases. You should see a doctor when these levels are elevated as they can signify different types of damages to your organs. High total bilirubin It might be a sign of neonatal physiological jaundice High levels might be caused by damage to the hepatic cells caused by toxins or inflammation It might be a sign of biliary tree obstruction   Calcium Included in the CMP panel Calcium normal values 5-10.5 mg/dl for men and women Calcium is one of the most important minerals in the body. Calcium is directly involved in the mineralization and growth of bones and it ensures that teeth remain in good condition. High calcium This might be a sign of hyperparathyroidism, bone disorders, malignant disease such as metastatic carcinoma of breast and kidney, etc. Your blood might contain too much vitamin D which leads to intoxication Acromegaly or dehydration Low calcium It might be a sign of hypoparathyroidism or chronic kidney failure Might be caused by a deficiency of vitamin D or magnesium The patient might have acute pancreatitis, anemia or problems with the pituitary gland   Carbon dioxide, total Included in the CMP panel Carbon dioxide normal values 24-30 mmol/liter for men and women Carbon dioxide is a byproduct of the food metabolization process. This gas is released into the bloodstream when cells are broken down in simpler substances. The blood full of carbon dioxide returns to the lungs where this gas is eliminated through respiration. High carbon dioxide It might be a sign of respiratory acidosis resulted from a poor gas exchange in the body Can also be caused by metabolic acidosis, especially if it is accompanied by multiple episodes of vomiting Low carbon dioxide It might signify tubular acidosis of the kidneys Might be a sign of loss of alkaline fluids through the intestines or compensated respiratory alkalosis   Chloride Included in the CMP panel Chloride normal values 100-108 mmol/liter for men and women Chloride forms when the element chlorine gains an electron. This is an important electrolyte that helps to maintain cell homeostasis or balance. High Chloride It might be caused by metabolic acidosis, especially when it is accompanied by loss of fluids caused by diarrhea It can also be caused by severe dehydration or a problem with the kidneys such as renal tubular acidosis or acute renal failure Hyperparathyroidism can also cause chloride levels to increase Low Chloride It might be caused by too much vomiting or prolonged episodes of diarrhea Low levels can also be caused by gastric problems such as gastric suction or gastric secretion Excessive sweating or respiratory acidosis can also make the chloride levels drop significantly Adrenal insufficiency may lower chloride blood levels Low blood chloride levels can be caused by drugs such as: These medication types can result in low chloride: Laxatives Diuretics Corticosteroids (long-term treatments) Bicarbonates   Creatinine Included in the CMP panel Creatinine normal levels 6-1.5 mg/dl for men and women Serum creatinine (a blood measurement) is an important indicator of kidney health because it is an easily measured byproduct of muscle metabolism that is excreted unchanged by the kidneys. It is eliminated from the body by kidneys through urine. The creatinine test is used to measure creatinine clearance as a way to assess kidney function. Creatinine is one of the variables used to estimate eGFR - Estimated glomerular filtration rate- which is one of the best test to measure your level of kidney function and determine your stage of kidney disease. Your doctor can calculate it from the results of your blood creatinine test, your age, body size and gender. Your GFR tells your doctor your stage of kidney disease and helps the doctor to plan your treatment. If your GFR number is low, your kidneys are not working as well as they should. The earlier kidney disease is detected, the better the chance of slowing or stopping its progression. People with high creatinine (low eGFR) should get a Cystatin C test which may be more accurate in certain cases. Elevated creatinine is not always representative of a true reduction in eGFR. A high reading may be due to increased production of creatinine not due to decreased kidney function, to interference with the assay, or to decreased tubular secretion of creatinine. An increase in serum creatinine can be due to increased ingestion of cooked meat (which contains creatinine converted from creatine by the heat from cooking) or excessive intake of protein and creatine supplements, taken to enhance athletic performance. Intense exercise can increase creatinine by increasing muscle breakdown. Dehydration secondary to an inflammatory process with fever may cause a false increase in creatinine concentrations not related to an actual kidney injury. Several medications can interfere with the assay. Creatinine secretion by the tubules can be blocked by some medications, again increasing measured creatinine. High creatinine Too much creatinine in the body might be a sign of renal failure or kidney dysfunction Hyperthyroidism can also be a cause of too much creatinine building up in the body as well as acromegaly Eating too many meals containing meat can increase the level of creatine and creatinine in the body Taking creatine supplements can falsely increase creatinine blood levels. Certain medications can increase creatinine blood levels, so talk to your doctor. Low creatinine This might be a sign of excessive muscle loss, probably caused by muscular dystrophy It can also be a sign of liver problems or a lack of protein in your diet   Glucose, fasting Glucose normal values 70-110 mg/dl for men and women Glucose is basically the amount of sugar you have in your blood. The entire human body uses glucose as a fuel source, but too much of it can be a real problem. High glucose This might be a sign of diabetes, increased insulin resistance, increased epinephrine, pancreatic disorders or endocrine problems Very high values are commonly associated with acute myocardial infarction, kidney disease or chronic liver disease Low glucose Although rare, low glucose values might be caused by a tumor that makes the pancreas produce too much insulin It might also be a sign of serious liver disease or renal disorders   Potassium Potassium normal values 5-5.2 mmol/L Potassium ions are vital for the functioning of all living cells. The transfer of potassium ions across nerve cell membranes is necessary for normal nerve transmission; potassium deficiency and excess can each result in numerous signs and symptoms, including an abnormal heart rhythm and various electrocardiographic abnormalities. Fresh fruits and vegetables are good dietary sources of potassium. The body responds to the influx of dietary potassium, which raises serum potassium levels, with a shift of potassium from outside to inside cells and an increase in potassium excretion by the kidneys. Low Potassium Hypokalemia (low potassium blood level) always occurs as a result of excessive loss of potassium through the urine, sweat or stool. It is always a symptom of another disorder, rather than a disease that occurs by itself. The excessive excretion of potassium in the urine may result from the use of diuretic drugs (which increases urination), a deficiency of magnesium in the blood, excessive mineralocorticoids such as aldosterone in the blood which affect the electrolyte and fluid balance in the body (usually caused by endocrine diseases), kidney disorders, or from the use of high doses of penicillin. Gastrointestinal losses of potassium usually are due to prolonged diarrhea or vomiting, chronic laxative abuse, inadequate dietary intake of potassium, intestinal obstruction or infections such as fistulas in the intestines which continually drain intestinal fluids. Additionally, excessive perspiration due to hot weather or exercise can cause hypokalemia. Some drugs can keep your kidneys from removing enough potassium. This can cause your potassium levels to rise. High Potassium The symptoms of an elevated potassium level are generally few and nonspecific. Nonspecific symptoms may include feeling tired, numbness and weakness. Occasionally palpitations and shortness of breath may occur. Hyperventilation may indicate a compensatory response to metabolic acidosis, which is one of the possible causes of hyperkalemia (high potassium).   Often, however, the problem is detected during screening blood tests for a medical disorder, or after hospitalization for complications such as cardiac arrhythmia or sudden cardiac death. High levels of potassium (> 5.5 mmol/L) have been associated with cardiovascular events. Decreased kidney function is a major cause of hyperkalemia.   Sodium Sodium normal values 135-145 mmol/liter for men and women Sodium is another important electrolyte in the body. It helps to keep the cell fluid balance at normal levels and it performs other important body functions. High sodium This can be a sign of Cushing's syndrome or water loss through the skin Too much sodium might also be a sign of increased renal sodium conservation in hyperaldosteronism Low sodium Also known as hyponatremia, too little sodium in the blood might signify diuretics abuse, salt-losing nephropathy (kidney disease) or excessive sweating Low sodium might also be caused by excessive vomiting or diarrhea A low sodium level has many causes, including consumption of too many fluids, kidney failure, heart failure, cirrhosis, and use of diuretics. Symptoms result from brain dysfunction. At first, people become sluggish and confused, and if hyponatremia worsens, they may have muscle twitches and seizures and become progressively unresponsive. Restricting fluids and stopping use of diuretics can help, but severe hyponatremia is an emergency requiring use of drugs, intravenous fluids, or both.    

An Advanced Cardio IQ Lipid Panel is a comprehensive test that goes beyond the standard lipid panel to provide deeper insights into an individual's cardiovascular health. In this blog post, we will explore the added benefits of advanced lipid testing and how it can help you make informed decisions about your overall wellness by leveraging topics such as fasting before testing, ion mobility technology in Cardio IQ testing, reclassification of patient risk profiles, monitoring lifestyle changes with repeat tests, and medication management based on test results. By exploring topics such as the importance of fasting before testing, ion mobility technology in Cardio IQ Test, and reclassification of patient risk profiles, you'll gain a better understanding of what sets an Advanced Lipid Panel apart from traditional cholesterol tests. Additionally, we will discuss how monitoring lifestyle changes with repeat testing and medication management based on test results can lead to more personalized prevention strategies for cardiovascular disease. Lastly, learn how DiscountedLabs.com makes ordering lab tests online simple and affordable so that everyone has access to these valuable tools for maintaining optimal health. Stay tuned for expert insights on the cutting-edge world of advanced lipid panels! Table of Contents Understanding the Cardio IQ Advanced Lipid Panel Importance of Fasting for 12-14 Hours Before the Cardio IQ Test Why should I use the Cardio IQ Advanced Lipid Panel? Ion Mobility Technology in Performing the Cardio IQ Test Quantifying All Lipoprotein Fractions with Ion Mobility Identifying Two Main Subclasses of HDL The Benefits of the Cardio IQ Test Reclassification of Patient's Risk Profile Analyzing Different Lipid Components for Accurate Assessment Personalizing Prevention Strategies Using Advanced Lipid Panel Data Monitoring Lifestyle Changes with Repeat Testing Impact of Dietary Changes on Cholesterol Levels Tracking Improvements After Implementing Exercise Programs Medication Management Based on Test Results Prescribing Appropriate Medications Based on Test Results Monitoring Medication Effectiveness Through Repeat Testing Ordering Lab Tests Online with DiscountedLabs.com How to Order Lab Tests Online Using DiscountedLabs.com Benefits of Accessing Affordable Lab Services through Discounted Labs Frequently Asked Questions About the Cardio IQ Test What is an advanced lipid panel? What is the role of advanced lipid testing in the prediction of cardiovascular disease? Does Medicare pay for advanced lipid testing? Do you have to fast for an advanced lipid panel? Conclusion Understanding the Cardio IQ Advanced Lipid Panel The Cardio IQ Advanced Lipid Panel is a comprehensive blood test that measures various lipid components that includes: Total Cholesterol, Triglycerides, HDL, LDL and Cholesterol/HDL ratio LDL Particle Number LDL Peak Size LDL Pattern HDL Large LDL Small LDL Medium Apolipoprotein B Lipoprotein (a). Importance of Fasting for 12-14 Hours Before the Cardio IQ Test Fasting for 12–14 hours before getting your blood drawn for this test is crucial to ensuring accurate results. It is essential to abstain from consuming anything other than water while fasting in order to get the most accurate results. This allows your body to clear out lipids from recent meals and provides a more precise measurement of your baseline lipid levels. By analyzing these components, the Cardio IQ Advanced Lipid Panel offers a more in-depth understanding of an individual's cardiovascular risk profile. This information can be used to create personalized prevention strategies based on each patient's specific needs. The Cardio IQ Advanced Lipid Panel is an important tool in helping to identify and monitor risk factors for cardiovascular disease. By utilizing ion mobility technology, this test can provide a more detailed picture of your lipid profile than traditional methods. Next, we will explore how this advanced testing technique works. Why should I use the Cardio IQ Advanced Lipid Panel? You should use the Cardio IQ test because it provides a more accurate picture of cardiovascular (CVD) risk than the standard lipid panel. Each year, heart attacks kill more than eight times as many women as breast cancer and more than 15 times as many men as prostate cancer. According to a major study, half of all patients hospitalized for cardiovascular disease have "normal" cholesterol levels. If your cholesterol is normal, being lowered by treatments like diet, exercise, or medication, or you have any of the conditions listed below, the Cardio IQ Panel may be right for you: Diabetes Previous heart attack Family history of heart attack High blood pressure Overweight/Obesity Cardiometabolic risk Metabolic syndrome Low HDL (dyslipidemia) High triglycerides. Discounted Labs offers the most affordable Cardio IQ test without requiring a doctor's visit. Customers can easily access this service in most cities across the United States, making it convenient and cost-effective to monitor their cholesterol levels. Ion Mobility Technology in Performing the Cardio IQ Test The advanced lipid panel, known as the Cardio IQ test, utilizes ion mobility technology to provide a more comprehensive analysis of your lipoprotein subfractions. This cutting-edge approach allows healthcare providers to better understand and manage your cardiovascular risk by identifying specific subclasses of HDL cholesterol. Quantifying All Lipoprotein Fractions with Ion Mobility Traditional lipid panels, which measure total cholesterol, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels, only provide limited information about the size or number of different lipoproteins present in your blood. However, these tests cannot determine the size or number of different lipoproteins circulating in your bloodstream, but the ion mobility technology used in Cardio IQ testing can. The ion mobility technology used in Cardio IQ testing directly detects, measures, and quantifies all lipoprotein fractions, also known as lipoprotein fractionation, for a more accurate assessment of cardiovascular risk. Total Cholesterol: A measure of all cholesterol types found in the blood. HDL Cholesterol: Known as "good" cholesterol that helps remove LDL from arteries. LDL Cholesterol: Known as "bad" cholesterol that can build up on artery walls leading to heart disease. Lipoprotein Subfractions:Analyzed using ion mobility technology to identify specific subclasses like large HDL and small HDL particles. Identifying Two Main Subclasses of HDL The ion mobility method identifies two main subclasses within the broader category of HDL: large HDL particles and small HDL particles. Large HDL particles are known to help protect the arterial wall by removing cholesterol and transporting it back to the liver for elimination from the body. A decreased level of large HDL subclass has historically been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Small HDL particles may not be as effective in guarding against CVD due to their reduced capacity for extracting cholesterol from arterial walls. By differentiating between these two subclasses, ion mobility technology allows healthcare providers to reclassify a patient's cardiovascular risk more accurately and recommend appropriate interventions. The Benefits of the Cardio IQ Test Better Risk Assessment: Ion mobility technology provides a more accurate assessment of your unique cardiovascular risks by analyzing specific lipoprotein subfractions. Personalized Treatment Plans: Healthcare providers can create tailored prevention strategies based on your individual lipid profile results obtained through Cardio IQ testing. Risk Reclassification: Identifying both large and small HDL subclasses helps in reclassifying patients who might have been previously misclassified using traditional lipid panels alone. Incorporating advanced lipid panel tests like Cardio IQ into your routine health check-ups is crucial for maintaining optimal heart health. Understanding how ion mobility technology works can empower you to make informed decisions about managing your own cardiovascular risk factors effectively. Ion Mobility Technology in Cardio IQ Testing has enabled us to quantify all lipoprotein fractions with greater accuracy, thereby improving the overall assessment of a patient's risk profile. By analyzing different lipid components and personalizing prevention strategies using advanced lipid panel data, we can better manage our patients' health outcomes. Discounted Labs offers affordable lab tests for an advanced lipid panel without requiring a doctor's visit in most U.S. cities. Customers can gain access to this convenient service and get a breakdown of their cholesterol, triglycerides, and other significant health indicators that could indicate potential issues. Reclassification of Patient's Risk Profile The results from a Cardio IQ Advanced Lipid Panel allow healthcare providers to better understand their patients' unique cardiovascular risks by analyzing specific lipid components like LDL Particle Number or Apolipoprotein B. This information can be used to create personalized prevention strategies based on each patient's specific needs. Analyzing Different Lipid Components for Accurate Assessment Traditional lipid panels provide limited insight into an individual's risk for developing cardiovascular disease (CVD). The Cardio IQ Advanced Lipid Panel, however, offers a more comprehensive analysis by measuring various lipid components, including overall cholesterol levels, that contribute to CVD risk. For example, the test measures LDL particle number (LDL-P), which has been shown in studies to be a stronger predictor of CVD than traditional cholesterol measurements alone. Total Cholesterol: A measure of all the cholesterol in your blood. HDL Cholesterol: Known as "good" cholesterol because it helps remove excess cholesterol from your arteries and protect against heart disease. LDL Cholesterol: Referred to as "bad" cholesterol because high levels can lead to plaque buildup in your arteries and increase the risk of heart attack or stroke. Apolipoprotein B (ApoB): A protein found on the surface of LDL particles; higher levels are associated with increased CVD risk. Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)]: A type of LDL cholesterol that is genetically determined and associated with an increased risk of heart disease. Personalizing Prevention Strategies Using Advanced Lipid Panel Data By understanding a patient's specific lipid profile, healthcare providers can create personalized prevention strategies to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events. These strategies may include: Dietary modifications: Consuming a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein sources, and healthy fats can help improve your lipid profile. Physical activity: Engaging in regular aerobic exercise has been shown to increase HDL levels while reducing LDL levels and overall CVD risk. Lifestyle changes: Quitting smoking, managing stress effectively, and maintaining a healthy weight are all essential components for minimizing CVD risk factors. Risk factor management: Addressing other health issues such as high blood pressure or diabetes can further decrease the likelihood of developing heart disease. In addition to these lifestyle interventions, some patients may require medication based on their individualized risk assessment. Healthcare professionals can choose treatment options that are more appropriately suited to each patient's needs by using advanced lipid panel data, such as those from Cardio IQ testing. By understanding the different components of a patient's lipid profile, it is possible to reclassify their risk and create personalized prevention strategies. To further understand how lifestyle changes can affect health outcomes, repeat testing with an advanced lipid panel should be monitored over time. Discounted Labs offers affordable lab tests for an advanced lipid panel without requiring a doctor's visit in most U.S. cities. Customers can get their cholesterol levels checked easily and conveniently through Discounted Labs' services, which saves them time and money compared to traditional healthcare options. Monitoring Lifestyle Changes with Repeat Testing The impact of lifestyle changes, such as diet modifications or exercise routines, on an individual's lipid profile can be monitored through repeat testing using the same advanced panels, like the Cardio IQ Advanced Lipid Panel. Regular monitoring enables healthcare professionals to track progress over time and adjust recommendations accordingly, if needed. In this section, we will discuss how dietary changes and exercise programs can influence cholesterol levels and the importance of tracking improvements through periodic testing. Impact of Dietary Changes on Cholesterol Levels Maintaining a healthy diet is crucial for managing cholesterol levels and reducing cardiovascular risk. Specific dietary changes that have been shown to improve lipid profiles include: Incorporating more fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes into your daily meals. Replacing red or processed meats with leaner sources of protein like poultry, fish, beans or low-fat dairy. Avoiding trans fats found in many packaged snacks and fried foods by checking food labels for "partially hydrogenated oils." Increasing intake of heart-healthy unsaturated fats from sources like olive oil, avocados or nuts while limiting saturated fat consumption from animal-based products. Studies have shown that implementing these dietary strategies can lead to significant reductions in LDL (bad) cholesterol levels while increasing HDL (good cholesterol) concentrations. Monitoring these improvements with regular Cardio IQ Advanced Lipid Panel testing can help healthcare providers adjust dietary recommendations as needed and track progress towards achieving optimal cholesterol levels. Tracking Improvements After Implementing Exercise Programs In addition to dietary modifications, engaging in consistent physical activity is a fundamental element of having a heart-healthy lifestyle. The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise per week for overall cardiovascular health. Regular exercise has been shown to: HDL cholesterol concentrations can be boosted and LDL levels decreased by engaging in regular physical activity. Lower triglyceride levels, which are associated with an increased risk of heart disease when elevated. Promote weight loss and maintenance, further contributing to improved lipid profiles and reduced cardiovascular risk. To assess the effectiveness of implemented exercise programs on an individual's lipid profile, periodic Cardio IQ Advanced Lipid Panel testing is crucial. By tracking improvements over time, healthcare professionals can provide personalized guidance on adjusting workout routines or intensities to optimize their patients cardiovascular health outcomes further. By monitoring lifestyle changes with repeat testing, individuals can gain a better understanding of how their dietary and exercise habits are affecting their cholesterol levels. Furthermore, medication management based on test results allows physicians to prescribe appropriate medications and monitor effectiveness through additional tests. Discounted Labs offers affordable lab tests without requiring a doctor's visit in most cities across the U.S. One of their available tests is an advanced lipid panel, which provides detailed information about a person's cholesterol levels and other related factors. This advanced lipid panel test can give people the power to monitor their health and spot potential warning signs of heart disease or other ailments. Medication Management Based on Test Results Physicians can make wise decisions about medication management with the help of the Cardio IQ Advanced Lipid Panel's thorough analysis. By understanding a patient's specific lipid profile, healthcare providers can prescribe appropriate medications to reduce cardiovascular risk and monitor their effectiveness over time. Prescribing Appropriate Medications Based on Test Results Your Cardio IQ test results play a crucial role in determining the right course of treatment for managing your cholesterol levels. If your Apolipoprotein B or LDL particle number is elevated, this could be a sign of heightened risk for coronary illness and high levels of bad cholesterol. In such cases, your doctor might consider prescribing statin medications, which are known to lower LDL cholesterol and bad cholesterol effectively. In addition to statins, other classes of drugs like bile acid sequestrants, niacin (vitamin B3), fibrates, or PCSK9 inhibitors may be prescribed based on individual needs and response to initial treatments. These medications work differently in lowering cholesterol levels and reducing overall cardiovascular risks. Bile Acid Sequestrants: These drugs bind with bile acids in the intestine and prevent them from being reabsorbed into the bloodstream. This forces the liver to use more cholesterol for producing new bile acids thereby lowering blood cholesterol levels. Niacin (Vitamin B3): Niacin works by decreasing triglyceride production while increasing HDL ("good") cholesterol levels at higher doses than those found in dietary supplements. Fibrates: Fibrates lower triglyceride levels and can modestly increase HDL cholesterol. Prescribed for individuals with high triglycerides or low HDL cholesterol, these medications can help improve lipid levels. PCSK9 Inhibitors: These medications help the liver remove more LDL cholesterol from the blood by blocking a protein called PCSK9, which interferes with this process. Monitoring Medication Effectiveness Through Repeat Testing Once you start taking medications to manage your lipid profile, it is essential to monitor their effectiveness through repeat testing using advanced panels like the Cardio IQ test. Regular monitoring enables healthcare professionals to track progress over time and adjust recommendations accordingly, if needed. Depending on factors such as age, overall health condition, family history of heart disease, and response to treatment, your doctor may suggest repeating tests every few months or annually. By closely monitoring your lipid profile changes over time using advanced tests like Cardio IQ Ion Mobility, both you and your healthcare provider can make informed decisions about adjusting medication dosages or trying alternative treatments when necessary. The importance of monitoring medication effectiveness through repeat testing cannot be overstated, and ordering lab tests online with DiscountedLabs.com is a convenient way to access affordable lab services. Discounted Labs offers affordable lab tests for an advanced lipid panel without requiring a doctor's visit in most cities across the U.S. This service allows customers to conveniently and inexpensively monitor their cholesterol levels and overall heart health. Ordering Lab Tests Online with DiscountedLabs.com Accessing essential lab services like the Cardio IQ Advanced Lipid Panel has never been easier, thanks to DiscountedLabs.com. This platform offers affordable blood tests that can be ordered online in the United States without a doctor's order. With no hidden fees and an easy ordering process, patients can now take control of their health by monitoring their lipid profile with the added benefit of a direct LDL test, all at discounted prices. How to Order Lab Tests Online Using DiscountedLabs.com Navigate to the "Find a Location" page on DiscountedLabs.com. Select your desired test, such as the Cardio IQ Advanced Lipid Panel. Put the Cardio IQ Advanced Lipid Panel in your cart and move on to checkout. Complete payment using a credit card or other available options. You will receive an email confirmation containing your lab request form. Print this document for reference during your visit. Take the printed lab request form, along with a valid photo ID to one of the participating labs near you. The staff will then draw your blood sample for testing purposes. Benefits of Accessing Affordable Lab Services through Discounted Labs No Doctor's Order Required: You don't need any referrals from healthcare providers; simply choose what tests you want and place an order directly.  Convenience: With an easy-to-use website and a vast network of participating labs, you can order your test online and visit a nearby location at your convenience.  Privacy: Secure encryption methods protect your personal information, providing confidentiality throughout the entire process. By utilizing DiscountedLabs.com's services, you can take charge of monitoring and improving your cardiovascular health. The Cardio IQ Advanced Lipid Panel provides valuable insights into individual risk factors, allowing patients to make informed decisions about their lifestyle choices or medication management. Discounted Labs offers affordable lab tests without the need for a doctor's visit in most cities across the U.S. One of their offerings is an advanced lipid panel, which provides detailed information on cholesterol levels and other important indicators of heart health. This test can help individuals take control of their cardiovascular health by identifying potential risks early on. Frequently Asked Questions About the Cardio IQ Test What is an advanced lipid panel? An advanced lipid panel is a comprehensive blood test that measures various lipoprotein particles, including LDL, HDL, and triglycerides. It provides more detailed information about your cholesterol levels than a standard lipid profile, helping to identify cardiovascular disease risk factors, including heart risks, and tailor personalized prevention strategies. Learn more about advanced lipid panels here. What is the role of advanced lipid testing in the prediction of cardiovascular disease? Advanced lipid testing plays a crucial role in predicting cardiovascular disease by identifying specific lipoprotein subclasses associated with increased risk. This helps healthcare professionals assess individual risk profiles more accurately and develop targeted treatment plans for patients at higher risk for heart attack or stroke, as well as other underlying conditions like liver disease. Read this study on the predictive value of advanced lipid testing. Does Medicare pay for advanced lipid testing? If your healthcare provider deems advanced lipid testing to be medically necessary, Medicare may cover some of the associated costs. However, coverage can vary depending on individual circumstances and plan details. It's essential to consult with your insurance provider or Medicare representative to determine eligibility for coverage. Find out more about Medicare coverage for lab tests here. Do you have to fast for an advanced lipid panel? Yes, fasting 12–14 hours before an advanced lipid panel is typically required as it ensures accurate results. During the fasting period, you should only consume water and avoid food, beverages containing calories, or medications that may affect lipid levels. Learn more about preparing for a cholesterol test here. Conclusion With the use of ion mobility technology in testing, it can provide an accurate reclassification of a patient's risk profile with repeated testing over time. DiscountedLabs.com makes ordering lab tests online easy and affordable, so anyone can take advantage of this advanced lipid panel without needing a doctor’s visit or paying the high costs associated with laboratory services. Take control of your health today with Discounted Labs and get a Cardio IQ Advanced Lipid Panel at an affordable price. No doctor's visit is required!

Table of Contents The comprehensive metabolic panel. Liver function tests Kidney function tests BUY THE CMP PANEL HERE Have you ever wondered what the numbers and complicated words on your blood tests mean? In this video, we will talk about the comprehensive metabolic panel, a series of blood tests that assess your body's electrolyte levels and the functioning of vital organs. These organs include the liver, kidneys, and thyroid.  The Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP Blood Test) It is a panel of blood tests serving as an initial broad medical screening tool, including electrolyte levels and functional states of some vital organs. Electrolyte levels. Some examples of electrolytes include sodium, potassium, and chloride. Electrolytes are tightly regulated in your body, and abnormalities in the levels of electrolytes can indicate problems. Liver function tests These tests indicate if your liver is working correctly or if it is inflamed or damaged. The liver filters the blood coming from the digestive tract, detoxifies chemicals, metabolizes drugs, and makes essential proteins. It is vulnerable to the toxic effects of many medications and alcohol. Tests for liver function. These include measuring the levels of total protein and albumin—total protein. The typical range is 6.1 to 8.1 grams per deciliter. Low levels may indicate impaired liver function. Albumin. The normal range is 3.6 to 5.1 grams per deciliter. Low levels may indicate impaired liver function. Tests for liver inflammation or damage. Increased levels of liver enzymes in the blood may indicate that they are being leaked out from damaged liver cells. AST, or aspartate amino transferase. The normal range is 10 to 35 units per liter. ALT, alanine amino transferase. The normal range is 9 to 60 units per liter. Alkaline phosphatase. The normal range is 40 to 115 units per liter.   Kidney function tests These tests tell you if your kidneys are working properly. Kidneys filter the blood to remove waste, control your body's fluid balance, and regulate the balance of electrolytes. They are vulnerable to the toxic effects of many medications. Creatinine serum. The normal range is 0.7 to 1.11 milligrams per deciliter. Creatinine is a breakdown product of creatine, a normal metabolic byproduct. The kidneys remove it from your body so that it can exit through the urine. An increase in blood creatinine indicates kidney disease or damage. BUN, or blood urea nitrogen. The normal range is 7 to 25 milligrams per deciliter. It measures the amount of nitrogen in your blood that comes from the waste product of urea, a breakdown product of proteins. An increase indicates kidney disease or damage. BUN-to-creatinine ratio. This ratio may be used to determine the cause of kidney injury or dehydration. The reference ratio is 8 to 19. GFR, glomerular filtration rate. The desired level is greater than 60 milliliters per minute. A lower rate indicates kidney disease. It is often used to determine kidney failure.   BUY THE CMP PANEL HERE

Table of Contents Impact of Lipids on Cardiovascular Health The concept of ideal cardiovascular health Blood lipids and atherosclerosis How does atherosclerosis develop? How to Prevent Atherosclerosis The importance of timing when it comes to lowering cholesterol levels Some people naturally have low cholesterol levels How physicians can help when it comes to lowering cholesterol levels Assessing blood lipids throughout life is vital for achieving ideal health The role of educational institutions in achieving optimal blood lipid levels Conclusions Impact of Lipids on Cardiovascular Health Maintaining a safe level of blood lipids help to lower the risk of developing a dangerous cardiovascular disease at some point during adulthood. Cardiovascular diseases tend to kill millions of people worldwide and they are preventable if individuals maintain optimal health throughout their lives. A cardiovascular disease implies that something is wrong with the heart or the blood vessels. Some good examples of cardiovascular diseases include coronary artery disease, myocardial infarction, angina, hypertension, and atherosclerosis. This article summarizes the impact of blood lipid test on cardiovascular health and what you can do to lower the risk of developing cardiovascular disease at some point in the future. The concept of ideal cardiovascular health The American Heart Association (AHA) has defined the ideal cardiovascular health using 7 parameters which can be monitored independently. AHA has also created a specific list of behaviors and habits people can put into practice to have a healthier lifestyle and lower their risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. For example, having the untreated total cholesterol level below 200 mg/dL, having a blood pressure of less than 120/80 mm Hg and a glucose concentration of less than 100 mg/dL can help you prevent most heart-related problems. Unfortunately, less than 5% of people take these parameters into account and maintain optimal health throughout adulthood. The goal of AHA is to help physicians educate their patients and assist them in making better decisions when it comes to influencing the lipids in their blood. This involves making lifestyle changes such as engaging in regular exercise, reducing the intake of saturated fats and avoiding smoking. Blood lipids and atherosclerosis It has been discovered that low-density lipoproteins (LDL cholesterol, aka bad cholesterol) play a vital role in the development and progression of atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is one of the most dangerous cardiovascular diseases out there. It is characterized by a narrowing of the blood vessels as a result of plaque buildup. Plaque is a waxy substance which develops inside blood vessels and arteries. This substance makes the blood vessels narrower and the speed of circulating blood will increase. Atherosclerosis develops over a period of decades and it progresses as a result of an unhealthy lifestyle. When too much plaque builds up in certain vessels, this can cause a rupture which might lead to stroke or a heart attack. How does atherosclerosis develop? Studies show that nearly 90% of all the LDL particles travel around the body through plasma. Some of these LDL particles get trapped in the walls of veins and arteries and they start to create a buildup. It has been discovered that the progression of atherosclerosis is directly related to the absolute plasma LDL levels in the body. As LDL particles circulate through veins and arteries, more of them become trapped by the plaque buildup and cause lager blockages. The atherosclerotic plaque burden can be determined by 2 factors - the amount of exposure to LDL particles and the concentration of low-density lipoproteins and other particles similar to them. It is possible to quantify this burden by multiplying a person’s age by the LDL concentration in the bloodstream. Of course, this gives only an estimate as only complex laboratory investigations can offer a more accurate reading of blood lipids. When the individual is young, the risk of a major cardiovascular event is small as plaque buildup is still in its infancy. However, poor lifestyle choices combined with advanced age can lead to a major deposit of plaque on blood veins and arteries. This can lead to something called thrombus which can block a blood vessel entirely. When this happens, several health conditions can appear such as unstable angina, myocardial infarction (heart attack) or even death. To better understand this concept, let’s look at a real-life example. The incidence of myocardial infarction among people who are 40 years old is about 1% in the United States. That means that one in 100 people might have a heart attack when they reach 40. If we consider that the mean level of LDL-C (which is a form of cholesterol) for these people is 125 mg/dL then this means that the total plaque burden can amount to 40 years x 125 mg/dL = 5,000 mg-years. This is the point when atherosclerotic plaque buildup can significantly increase the risk of developing myocardial infarction or heart attack.   BUY A CHOLESTEROL PANEL   How to Prevent Atherosclerosis Keeping blood lipids at normal level throughout life is one of the best ways to prevent cardiovascular diseases. This means that fewer LDL particles are trapped in the walls of veins and arteries and the exposure to bad cholesterol is limited. Preventing atherosclerosis lead experts to suggest 2 types of approach - primordial prevention and primary prevention. Primordial prevention focuses on minimizing blood lipid levels throughout childhood and adolescence when most of the mean cholesterol levels are inherited from parents. Primary prevention focuses on lifestyle and diet changes, which can reduce the number of lipids in the bloodstream and prevent plaque buildup. Specialists suggest that an optimal level of blood lipids would be 80 mg/dl for LDL - C and less than 200 mg/dl for total plasma cholesterol levels. Achieving these levels and maintaining them throughout adulthood can significantly lower the risk of developing myocardial infarction, even for people who are well over their 40s. It's also important to note that some people can retain more LDL particles than others, so there are no "one-size fits all" when it comes to plaque buildup and preventing it. The importance of timing when it comes to lowering cholesterol levels As mentioned earlier, atherosclerosis tends to develop over time and it is strongly influenced by a poor diet and a sedentary lifestyle. Young adults in their twenties might not experience plaque buildup or any symptoms associated with it, but this doesn’t mean that atherosclerosis might not affect them. That’s why any strategy to lower cholesterol levels should be implemented as early as possible and not wait until plaque has already developed a substantial thickness in arteries and veins. In other words, it’s easier to reduce the LDL-C levels from 120 to 80 mg/dl when a person is in his 20s and prevent major cardiovascular events such as stroke or heart attacks in comparison with a person who is 50 years old. Remember that the total plaque burden is cumulative, so the senior might have a great amount of plaque developed in his circulatory system, which needs to be approached carefully. Plaque building in veins and arteries is not something that can be stopped altogether. It slowly develops starting from childhood and invasive procedures can detect signs of atherosclerosis beginning in early adulthood. However, it might take decades until plaque develops at a massive rate and starts causing problems. With that being said, something can be done to slow down the process of developing plaque. For example, engaging in physical exercises regularly, quitting smoking and eating lots of vegetables can significantly reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. Some people naturally have low cholesterol levels There are numerous genetic variants which indicate that some people are less predisposed to developing plaque than others. This is similar to being involved in cholesterol-reducing therapy throughout the entire life. These individuals have a slower rate of progression when it comes to plaque buildup, and they are less predisposed to cardiovascular diseases. However, this doesn’t mean that people with naturally low cholesterol levels shouldn’t worry about plaque buildup at all. They should also engage in preventative measures to slow down the progression of atherosclerosis, even if they already have a lower risk in comparison with other people. How physicians can help when it comes to lowering cholesterol levels It is commonly accepted that exercise can lower the levels of LDL-C and decreasing the risk of developing cardiovascular disease. This is true, but specialists discovered that diet could have a larger impact when it comes to cholesterol levels. For example, reducing the intake of saturated fats has been linked with lower levels of LDL-C in the plasma. As a result, a smaller concentration of LDL particles limits the development and progression of atherosclerosis. If this is maintained for decades, the individual in question might never experience a heart attack or a stroke. However, studies show that replacing saturated fats with carbohydrates can lower LDL-C levels in the plasma but increase triglyceride levels. Having high triglyceride levels is a risk factor for heart problems, so it’s not a viable option. Further studies offer a better approach - replacing saturated fats with unsaturated fats and protein. This doesn't only lower the LDL-C levels, but also keeps the triglyceride levels at a minimum and prevents a whole suite of cardiovascular problems. On top of that, researchers have found out that a diet rich in fibers can also help in reducing LDL-C levels and lowering the risk for heart disease. People should consume nuts, plant-based protein, plant phytosterols, and polyunsaturated fats to achieve these benefits. By following such a healthy diet for years, patients can help to reduce the plaque buildup acquired in childhood or adolescence and enjoy a healthier and longer life. For some people who are not able to maintain optimal blood lipid levels through diet alone, doctors also recommend taking statin drugs. Small doses of 10mg or 20mg of atorvastatin or ezetimibe can help certain individuals achieve ideal levels of LDL-C in their blood and prevent major cardiovascular events such as myocardial infarction or strokes. Assessing blood lipids throughout life is vital for achieving ideal health Measuring blood lipids regularly is paramount for people of all ages, even children. Experts recommend taking a blood lipid test once every 3 years to assess the levels of triglycerides, LDL-C and other lipoproteins in the body. Parents might also want to test the lipids levels at birth, when the child is 2 years old, 10 years old, 14 years old and finally, when he reaches 18 years of age. This helps to monitor the inherited plaque burden and see if the adolescent has high cholesterol levels. Based on these results, physicians can recommend lifestyle changes and dietary adjustments to reduce the levels of LDL-C in the blood. These preventative measures help the individual avoid major cardiovascular events when he is 40 years old or older. If the young patient is constantly assessed and his/her blood lipids are optimal, the doctor might recommend continuing with the prescribed diet. The patient should return for a blood test once every 3 years to see if the lipids are below the optimal threshold. In some cases when the blood lipids level increased, the doctor might recommend lipid-lowering therapy. Noninvasive imaging might be used in high-risk individuals to determine the amount of plaque buildup in the blood veins and arteries. If plaque is discovered, the patient can be reassessed to determine if he or she is a good candidate for lipid-lowering therapy. In most cases, patients with high-risk factors such as a family history of cardiac events will benefit from this type of therapy to slow down the rapid progression of atherosclerosis. If plaque is not discovered in the bloodstream, then the patient doesn’t need lipid-lowering therapy. The role of educational institutions in achieving optimal blood lipid levels It is true that healthcare resources are finite and people should do their best to take care of their health and avoid being a burden on the healthcare industry. Irresponsible behavior, which involves eating a lot of junk food, smoking cigarettes and drinking excessive amounts of alcohol, can put a serious strain on healthcare providers. One way to alleviate this problem and achieve optimal blood lipid levels is by educating people about cardiovascular diseases from an early age. This can be done if educational institutions such as schools and colleges put an emphasis on blood lipid levels and how to prevent atherosclerosis. Lessons should be taught on how to reduce LDL-C levels, how to engage in regular exercise and what foods are healthier for the heart and circulatory system. On top of that, numerous people, especially teenagers, smoke cigarettes regularly. This bad habit can significantly contribute to the levels of lipids in the blood, not to mention that cigarettes can cause a host of cancers. Schools, high-schools and colleges should make a priority to help adolescents quit smoking and remain cigarette-free for the rest of their lives. By adopting such preventative measures, not only that a large portion of the US population will be healthier, but healthcare costs will also be reduced. The saved money can be redirected to finding cures for cancers or developing new drugs and medicines for diseases that have recently appeared. The educational system might also need to emphasize proper nutrition and offering healthy meals to children and adolescents in primary schools and high schools. Junk foods such as pizza and burgers should be replaced with healthier varieties such as salads, lean protein and nutritious snacks, which include Greek yogurt and nuts. Putting an accent on healthier meals help in reducing the amount of plaque buildup throughout the early stages of life. As a result, these young adults are less predisposed to develop cardiovascular diseases later on in life. Furthermore, they will become health-conscious parents who will also educate their children on how to become better and healthier individuals! Conclusions This article has established that LDL particles are directly responsible for developing atherosclerosis, which can lead to major cardiovascular events. The LDL concentration in the blood combined with the exposure to such particles create the overall risk of heart disease and it can be quantified using both invasive and noninvasive medical procedures. A healthy diet low in saturated fats and rich in fibers and protein can help to reduce the LDL-C levels in the bloodstream. Couple this healthy diet with a regular exercise regimen and individuals can significantly reduce the atherosclerosis progression throughout their lifetimes.

Learn why a blood test is important, how it is performed, and how to interpret the numbers. In this video, we will discuss a lipid profile - a group of tests which assesses your risk of developing heart disease. We will also discuss the hemoglobin A1c test.   You likely had blood tests done when you visited your doctor. Do you ever look at the results and understand what they mean? This video will show you what, how and why. The blood sample is drawn from the vein in your arm by a health professional, and it is almost painless. Why is a blood test important? It is an extremely useful diagnostic tool. The results can tell you how your body's functioning and the overall state of your health. Blood tests can be used to screen for disorders, track the progress of medical treatments and alert you of potential health problems, thus helping you take action to prevent or treat them. Therefore, it is important for you to know how to read your results and to understand what the numbers mean. Interpretation of test results: Compare the numbers of your test results to that of the reference or normal ranges given. More importantly, follow the trend of your results with time for a more meaningful interpretation. Please note that the numbers can vary somewhat from laboratory to laboratory. Be sure to always use the reference numbers given by the specific laboratory where your test is done. What does a routine blood test panel include? This blood test panel include many different types of tests for different purposes, such as lipid profile, blood sugar level test, electrolyte levels and liver function tests. It is usually done with fasting blood, that is no foods or drinks except for water for more than 8 to 12 hours before the blood draw. It includes tests for risk factors for common disorders, such as heart disease, diabetes, liver disease and kidney disease, among others. Some of the slides in the above video show examples of some of the common tests that are performed in blood samples. Some of the tests that we will be going over include lipid profile, a comprehensive metabolic panel, measuring glucose levels and hemoglobin A1C, liver function tests, kidney function tests, thyroid function tests and complete blood count. You need to look at the whole picture, not just one of the tests. Lipid profile. It tells you if you have a risk factor for developing heart disease. A panel of tests includes the following, total cholesterol. The recommended level is under 200 milligrams per deciliter. Your body uses cholesterol to help build cells and make hormones. Too much cholesterol in the blood can cause formation of plaques on the walls of your blood vessels and increase your chances of having a heart attack or stroke. HDL or high-density lipoprotein. The recommended level is more than 45 milligrams per deciliter is often referred to as good cholesterol. It helps bind fat in the blood and carry it to the liver for disposal. Low density lipoprotein or LDL. The recommended level is lower than 129 milligrams per deciliter is often referred to as bad cholesterol and is made up of mostly fat and only a small amount of protein. A high level may increase your chances of developing heart disease. Triglycerides are essentially fat in the blood that is used to provide energy to the body. They are your main form of fat. Triglycerides, the recommended level is lower than 200 milligrams per deciliter. A level of 240 to 499 milligrams per deciliter is considered high. A level of more than 500 milligrams per deciliter is considered very high, so some action needs to be taken to lower it. High triglyceride levels may lead to heart disease, especially in people with low levels of good cholesterol and high levels of bad cholesterol. Having a healthy diet and regularly exercising can help lower triglyceride levels and improve cholesterol. Glucose or blood sugar is a source of energy for the cells in your body. Foods such as bread, pasta, rice, and fruit contain carbohydrates that are turned into glucose in your body. This raises your blood glucose level. The glucose test helps screen for diabetes or pre-diabetes. For fasting glucose level, the normal range is 70 to 99 milligrams per deciliter. Too high or too low a level indicates a problem with your glucose metabolism. Hemoglobin A1C, this is a more meaningful test for screening for diabetes. It checks your average blood sugar level over the past two to three months. The normal range is 4.5 to 5.7 percent. 5.7 to 6 percent suggests increased risk of diabetes. 6.1 to 6.4 percent suggests higher risk of diabetes. Greater than 6.5% is consistent with diabetes.   Buy a Lipid Profile here. Buy a Hemoglobin A1C here.