Globulin
Globulin is a group of proteins produced by the liver and immune system that play a key role in maintaining overall health. These proteins help protect the body by fighting infections and germs. Additionally, globulin is essential for blood clotting, which helps prevent excessive bleeding from injuries.
Total Protein
Total Protein measures the combined levels of two major protein groups in the blood: Albumin and Globulin. Albumin helps maintain fluid balance by preventing fluid from leaking out of the bloodstream, while Globulin, produced by both the liver and immune system, plays a vital role in strengthening the immune system by combating infections and harmful microorganisms.
Gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT)
The Gamma-Glutamyltransferase (GGT) test measures the level of the GGT enzyme in the blood. GGT plays a crucial role in transporting molecules and assisting with the metabolism of toxins and drugs in the liver. Elevated GGT levels may indicate liver damage or disease, such as hepatitis or cirrhosis. This test is also valuable for diagnosing bile duct infections and monitoring alcohol abuse.
Alkaline Phosphate (ALP)
Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) is an enzyme present in several parts of the body, including the liver, kidneys, bones, and digestive system. Elevated ALP levels in the bloodstream may indicate liver disease, bone disorders, or other health conditions affecting these areas. A higher-than-normal ALP reading can signal the need for further evaluation by a healthcare provider.
Triglycerides
Triglycerides are a type of blood fat that plays a vital role in your body’s overall function. They are the primary way the body stores fat and can be used as a source of energy. Produced in the liver, triglycerides are essential for energy and fat storage. However, elevated triglyceride levels can increase the risk of cardiovascular issues. Monitoring triglyceride levels is crucial when assessing overall cholesterol health.
HDL % of total
The HDL (high-density lipoprotein) percentage of total cholesterol measures the proportion of “good” cholesterol (HDL) in relation to your total cholesterol levels. This biomarker helps assess your cardiovascular risk by comparing the amount of HDL (the “good” cholesterol) to LDL (the “bad” cholesterol) and total cholesterol in your blood. Healthcare providers and heart disease risk calculators use this percentage to evaluate your overall cardiovascular health.
Non HDL Cholesterol
In addition to measuring your HDL and LDL levels, this test also includes a non-HDL cholesterol check. Non-HDL cholesterol encompasses all the harmful cholesterol types in your blood, serving as a key indicator and risk assessment tool for cardiovascular health. Ideally, non-HDL cholesterol levels should be below 4mmol/L. Monitoring both HDL and LDL levels allows you to track the effects of dietary and lifestyle changes on your cholesterol, helping you optimize your health based on your biomarkers.
Creatinine
Creatinine is a waste product produced when the body breaks down creatine, a component found in muscles. Normally, creatinine is filtered out of the body by the kidneys. Elevated creatinine levels can indicate that the kidneys are not effectively filtering and excreting waste, which may be a sign of kidney dysfunction.
Ferritin
Ferritin is a protein that stores iron in the body, which is essential for delivering oxygen to muscles, enabling them to function properly. Ferritin releases iron when needed and is primarily stored in cells, especially in the liver. Monitoring ferritin levels ensures adequate iron storage in the body’s cells, as insufficient storage can lead to rapid depletion of iron, affecting overall health and energy levels.
Vitamin b12
Vitamin B12 is crucial for several vital functions in the body, including the production of red blood cells and proper nerve function. It is found in food, supplements, and fortified products. A deficiency in vitamin B12 can lead to anemia or nerve damage. Normal vitamin B12 levels typically range from 200 to 900 ng/mL. If your levels are low, your doctor may recommend vitamin B12 supplements or foods fortified with B12 to help restore optimal levels.
Creatine Kinase
Creatine Kinase (CK) is an enzyme found in the muscles, including the heart. Elevated levels of creatine kinase often indicate muscle injury or stress, as the enzyme is released into the bloodstream when muscle tissue is damaged. CK also plays a crucial role in supporting heart function, and high levels may signal heart-related issues, including a mild or severe heart attack. Monitoring creatine kinase levels can help assess both muscle and heart health.
Albumin
Albumin is a protein found in blood plasma that plays a crucial binding role, similar to SHBG. It is produced by the liver and helps maintain fluid balance within blood vessels by preventing fluid leakage. Low albumin levels can be an indicator of potential issues with liver or kidney function, as these organs are responsible for producing and regulating albumin. Monitoring albumin levels is essential for assessing overall health, particularly liver and kidney health.
Alanine transferase (ALT)
Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) is an enzyme primarily found in the liver and heart cells. Testing ALT levels in the bloodstream helps assess liver health, especially in cases where there may be liver stress or damage due to factors such as medications, heavy alcohol use, or viral infections like hepatitis. While an elevated ALT level can indicate liver damage, it doesn’t provide direct insight into the extent of the damage. Generally, lower ALT levels suggest a healthy liver, though normal ALT ranges can vary depending on factors such as age, sex, and overall health.
Bilirubin
Bilirubin is a brownish-yellow pigment produced when red blood cells break down. Normally, it is processed by the liver and excreted in bile. However, a buildup of bilirubin in the bloodstream can lead to jaundice, a condition where the skin and eyes turn yellow, and may indicate liver dysfunction or disease. Elevated bilirubin levels are an important marker in diagnosing liver and bile duct issues.
Total Cholesterol
Total cholesterol measures the overall amount of cholesterol in your blood, including both HDL (high-density lipoprotein) and LDL (low-density lipoprotein). Cholesterol is produced by the liver and plays a vital role in several bodily functions, such as the production of vitamin D, bile, and the maintenance of cell membranes. It also helps transport fatty acids throughout the body. Total cholesterol levels are an important indicator of heart health and can provide insight into your risk for cardiovascular issues, including heart disease and heart attack.
HDL Cholesterol
HDL (high-density lipoprotein), often referred to as “good cholesterol,” plays a crucial role in protecting your heart and blood vessels. It works by removing excess cholesterol from your bloodstream and transporting it to the liver for processing. HDL also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Maintaining optimal HDL levels is essential for overall heart health. The Welzo HDL test measures your HDL levels and provides insights into necessary lifestyle changes that can help boost them, improving your cardiovascular well-being.
LDL Cholesterol
LDL (low-density lipoprotein), often called “bad cholesterol,” is responsible for transporting fats, including triglycerides, throughout the body. When LDL levels are elevated, it can increase the risk of cardiovascular issues such as heart disease and heart attacks. High LDL levels can contribute to the buildup of fatty deposits in the artery walls, a condition known as atherosclerosis, which narrows and hardens the arteries, restricting blood flow. Managing LDL levels is crucial for reducing the risk of these serious health conditions.
Urea
Urea is a waste product formed when the body breaks down proteins. It is primarily excreted through urine. Normal urea levels in the blood typically range from 2.5 to 7.0 mmol/L. Elevated urea levels can indicate kidney dysfunction, as the kidneys may not be effectively filtering it from the bloodstream. In severe cases, high urea levels can lead to kidney failure, dehydration, or cardiovascular problems. Urea testing is commonly used to assess kidney function and monitor the health of the renal system.
estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR)
The estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) is a test used to assess how well the kidneys are filtering waste from the blood. A lower eGFR, typically below 60, can indicate reduced kidney function or potential kidney disease. An eGFR of 60 or higher is considered normal and suggests healthy kidney function. This test is essential for monitoring kidney health and detecting early signs of kidney dysfunction.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is a crucial nutrient for overall health, particularly for maintaining strong bones and muscles. It helps the body absorb calcium, which is vital for bone density. Vitamin D can be obtained from sunlight, certain foods, supplements, and fortified products. Insufficient vitamin D levels can lead to conditions like osteoporosis, muscle weakness, and an increased risk of fractures. The ideal range for vitamin D is between 20 and 50 ng/mL. If your levels are low, we may recommend taking a vitamin D supplement or consuming more vitamin D-rich foods to restore optimal health.
hs-CRP
The hs-CRP test is used to measure low levels of C-Reactive Protein (CRP) in the blood, a biomarker of inflammation. CRP is produced by the liver in response to inflammation and is an important indicator of your body’s inflammatory status. Elevated CRP levels are linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and strokes. High levels of CRP are also associated with chronic inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. While CRP is not specific to any one disease, it provides valuable insight into overall inflammation and can be used to assess cardiovascular health and inflammatory conditions.