Ep. 24 Unlocking Health: Essential Labs for a Comprehensive Overview
Disclaimer: Susan is not a licensed practitioner and does not diagnose, treat, or cure any illnesses or diseases. Her role is to guide and support you in making informed decisions about your lifestyle and empower you to take control of your health.
Are you equipped with the right knowledge to master your health? Listen into an impactful episode of ‘Everyday Epigenetics. Raw. Real. Relatable.’ where this week’s focus is all about crucial health labs!
We’ll break down the essential tests you should get for vitamins, hormones, and lipids. Let’s get into it!
The Scoop on Vitamin B12 and Folate
First up, let’s talk about Vitamin B12 and Folate. These vitamins are crucial! B12 helps with red blood cell formation, metabolism, nerve function, and even DNA production. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, you’ve got to be extra careful since B12 isn’t found in plants. I recommend getting your B12 and iron levels checked every six months to a year. It’s also a great idea to chat with your health practitioner about how often you should get tested based on your individual needs.
Hormone Testing 101
Hormones are another biggie when it comes to health. Stress and genetics can mess with your thyroid function, which can lead to symptoms like fatigue, hair loss, and weight gain. I suggest getting a full thyroid panel, not just the TSH test. This includes Free T4, Free T3, Reverse T3, and Thyroid antibodies. Also, keep an eye on other key hormones like Testosterone, Progesterone, Estradiol, and DHEA because they impact pretty much everything in your body.
Why Lipid Testing Is Key
Let’s not forget about lipids and cholesterol. These are essential fats, but too much can cause heart-related problems and even contribute to other issues. A basic cholesterol test isn’t enough. You should ask for detailed lipid tests like Lipoprotein Fractionation (NMR), LP(a), and Apolipoprotein B, Omega 6:3 ratio, and APOA-1. These tests give you a more accurate picture of inflammation and cardiovascular health and help you tweak your health plan accordingly.
Take Charge of Your Health
I can’t stress enough how important it is to incorporate these tests into your routine. Navigating health can be confusing, but don’t rely solely on doctors. Be proactive and advocate for yourself. Regular tests can catch issues early and help you stay on top of your health game.
To wrap things up, I encourage you to take control of your health by making sure you get these critical lab tests done regularly. Share this podcast with friends, leave a review, and engage with us. We’re here to help you navigate your health journey.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone ready to take their health strategy to the next level. Remember, knowledge is power, and these lab insights can empower you to live your healthiest life.