BASIC WELLNESS LABS

Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is an enzyme that is found throughout the body but mostly found in liver, bones, kidneys, and digestive system. This particular test is used to help detect liver disease, bone disorders, or help with the detection of gallbladder disease.

AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone) is a hormone that measures your ovarian reserve, or the number of eggs you have. This test is often used in conjunction with other tests to assess fertility. AMH testing can also be used to help diagnose PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome), predict the onset of menopause, and monitor patients with certain types of ovarian cancer.

The Antinuclear Antibodies (ANA) test looks for antinuclear antibodies in your blood. It is often used to detect autoimmune disorders.

The ANA test looks for antinuclear antibodies in your blood. This test can be used to screen for autoimmune disorders; if you want to know if you have a specific autoimmune disorder, that may require additional testing. Symptoms of autoimmune disorders can vary; this includes symptoms such as fever, fatigue, swelling, joint and muscle pain, rashes, and more. If you suspect that you have an autoimmune disorder, the ANA test can be a good starting point. 

DNA testing can be used to determine if there is a biological relationship between two individuals. This is typically done by obtaining genetic material (DNA samples) from the two individuals via cheek swabs, then comparing these samples. 

The Avuncular DNA Test can be used to determine if two individuals are related to each other as aunt–nephew (or niece) or as uncle–nephew (or niece).

This test compares the DNA from a child to the DNA of their biological mother, as well as the DNA from one full sibling of the child’s alleged father. This is an indirect test to determine a biological relationship; this type of testing can be useful when an alleged father is unable or unwilling to participate in a paternity test.

This is an informational Avuncular Test. Informational Avuncular Test results cannot be used for any type of legal purpose. If you are not planning to use these test results for any type of legal reason, then this test can provide you answers and peace of mind. If you are looking for an Avuncular Test that can be used for legal/other purposes, check out the Avuncular Legal Test.

Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin) and Folate is necessary for normal red blood cell (RBC) formation, repair of tissues and cells, and synthesis of DNA, the genetic material in cells. Both are nutrients that cannot be produced and must be supplied by the diet.  

The Saliva Hormone Test is the best non-invasive method for discovering any type of hormone imbalance in either males or females.  Hormone imbalance can occur at any age and can be due to a multitude of reasons.

The ovaries produce many of the hormones in females, which also communicate with the brain to either increase or decrease the release of various other hormones.  The imbalance within the body can lead to symptoms experienced during a short period of time or for many years.

In men, the testes produce mainly 95% of all testosterone, which is balanced by the adrenal gland.  The brain also regulates the increase or decrease of hormones released within the body.  The irregularity of testosterone within the body may contribute to decreased bone density, decreased muscle strength and decreased libido.

THESE 3 TESTS ARE INCLUDED IN THIS PANEL:

1. Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH)
2. Total T4
3. T3 Uptake

WHAT DOES THE THYROID GLAND DO?

The thyroid gland is responsible for regulating how your body uses energy through the production of hormones critical to proper cell and system functioning.

There are three main hormones in the thyroid system that should be balanced:

1. TSH: Thyroid Stimulating Hormone is the most important of the hormones in the thyroid system, this stimulates or acts on the thyroid gland, telling it how much of the actual thyroid hormones need to be made.
2. T4: Hormone is produced by the thyroid and travels throughout the body and is converted into T3.
3. T3: The active form of T4.  This is the hormone that goes into the cells and controls their function throughout the body.

A thyroid hormone panel screens for thyroid function and can help diagnose potential thyroid disease by examining your body’s production, levels, or usage of the different thyroid hormones.  There are two types of thyroid and thyroid hormone-related disorders:

1. Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) – symptoms may include fatigue, weight gain, a short attention span, and numbness or cold intolerance.
2. Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) – symptoms may include weight loss, persistent vomiting, increased blood pressure, hair loss, or a persistently fast heart rate.

WHY DO I NEED THIS TEST?

If there is a thyroid level imbalance in your body, you may be more susceptible to everything from osteoporosis and heart disease to infertility and fatigue.

Thyroid disorders are more common in women and they often occur with changes in other hormone levels, such as with pregnancy or with older age.

The Blood Typing and RH Factor Test determines your blood type [either A, B, AB, and O] and Rh factor [negative or positive].  Did you know there are several benefits in knowing both?

Blood type is determined by the types of antigens (or markers) on your blood cells.  Antigens are proteins on the surface of your blood cells that can cause a response from the immune system – which is good in fighting disease.

The Rh factor is a type of protein on the surface of red blood cells.  Red blood cells that contain protein are called Rh‐positive and the red blood cells that don’t are Rh‐negative. If you have Rh‐negative blood, it can be given to anyone because it can’t be identified as foreign in other people’s bodies (because it doesn’t have an antigen.)

Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) is a protein that is a tumor marker. In Adults, CEA levels are generally very low in the blood but can be elevated in a wide variety of different types of cancers. CEA levels can also be elevated in non-cancer related conditions, such as cirrhosis, peptic ulcer, ulcerative colitis, rectal polyps, and also in smokers. CEA testing is also done to monitor the cancer during treatment.

One in every 133 Americans suffers from celiac disease totaling 3 million Americans.  85% of these people have not been diagnosed so they either struggle along trying to figure out what foods to avoid on their own and suffer from painful and sometimes, debilitating symptoms of celiac disease.  Several millions more suffer from gluten intolerance, which can be very painful and can get worse over time.  Intolerances differ significantly from allergies. Unlike allergies, intolerances may vary from situation to situation, while an allergy always produces the same reaction.

True celiac disease, unlike gluten intolerance, is genetically based and carried from parents or grandparents to their children.  If gluten is ingested the villi in the small intestine are damaged over time reducing the villi’s ability to absorb needed nutrients from food and increasing abdominal discomfort.  Functional gastrointestinal disorders affect 2 in every 5 Americans and include Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Celiac Disease, Functional Dyspepsia (indigestion), Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn’s Disease.  The CICA test can help to determine if you have Celiac Disease or some other gastrointestinal disorder so that you can properly treat your symptoms.

The  Lipids  Panel  can  determine  if  you  have  abnormal  cholesterol  or  triglyceride  levels.  These  are important because they can also help you and your doctor determine if you’re at risk for heart disease or other coronary (heart) illnesses.

Cholesterol is fat that is produced by the liver. It can also be obtained from foods like cheeseburgers, pizza, etc. There are two kinds of cholesterol – the good and the bad.

1. High Density Lipoproteins (HDL) = Good cholesterol.
2. Low Density Lipoproteins (LDL) = Bad cholesterol.

A lipoprotein is a small protein that carries different kinds of fats like cholesterol or triglycerides.  While the body produces many different kinds of lipoproteins, some of them can have positive or protective effects on heart health. However, too much of the same can also be a risk for your heart.

A standard cholesterol panel will include things like LDL, HDL and triglycerides.  Looking at cholesterol levels, specifically the LDL (sometimes called “bad cholesterol”) and HDL (sometimes called “good cholesterol”) is important; this is a very common tool of many healthcare providers.  A more in-depth look at the different parts of this system can provide an even better idea of the balance between risk factors and protective factors. 30% of the population can have “normal” cholesterol values, but have elevated lipoprotein particle numbers. This- along with other factors and tests- could indicate an elevated risk for heart disease.

Lipoprotein (a), also called LPa, has been identified as a risk factor for cardiovascular disease and stroke.  The level of LPa in the blood is inherited and numerous studies have shown that it is a significant predictor of cardiovascular disease that is not related to other risk factors.  LPa transports LDL (“bad cholesterol”) through the blood and may directly contribute to arterial degeneration and cholesterol and plaque deposits in the arteries that obstruct the blood flow by increasing plaque size and increasing inflammation.  It is believed that LPa prevents clots from being broken down normally and promotes the uptake of LDL into blood vessel walls.

Some studies suggest that consuming fish or taking fish oil supplements or the regular consumption of moderate amounts of alcohol may reduce LPa levels.  Other exercise or diet regimens typically recommended for cholesterol reduction are usually not effective in reducing LPa.

Cholesterol is a waxy substance produced by the liver; it can also be obtained from the foods you eat, like meat, dairy products, etc. High cholesterol is also known as “hyperlipidemia”. Having high cholesterol can increase your risk of stroke and heart disease. 

High cholesterol can be managed with lifestyle changes and medications. Sometimes, the medications used to treat high cholesterol can cause liver issues. Although this is not a common side effect, healthcare providers may still want to monitor liver function in their patients who take cholesterol medication.

The Cholesterol Medication Maintenance Panel is ideal for someone who is taking cholesterol medication, or for someone who needs to have their cholesterol and liver function checked on a routine basis.

Clostridium difficile (commonly called C. difficile or C. diff) is a type of bacteria whose overgrowth from antibiotic use is associated with diarrhea and other gastrointestinal problems. The C. diff toxin test identifies the presence of this bacteria and the gene associated with toxin production. C. diff is present as normal flora in the digestive tract, but when broad-spectrum antibiotics are used to treat infections, typically for an extended period of time, the balance of the normal flora is disrupted and the overgrowth of clostridium difficile is allowed to occur.

The growth of C. difficile can lead to damage of the gastrointestinal lining.  The resulting symptoms can range from mild diarrhea to a more severe toxic megacolon. C. difficile is the primary cause for psuedomembraneous colitis.

Start the conversation about colorectal cancer screening before signs and symptoms occur. Fewer than half of people found to have colorectal cancer are diagnosed at an early stage, when treatment is most effective. Are you at risk? Do you have one or more of the following risk factors? Getting screened gives you greater peace of mind.

Some risk factors:

• Are over 45 years of age
• Had colorectal polyps or cancer in the past
• Have a family history of colorectal cancer (in parent, brother, sister, or child)
• Have ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease
• Eat a diet high in fat and low in calcium, fiber, and folate
• Smoke cigarettes
• Have certain genetic conditions

A CBC is a great test to take to give you a “snapshot” of your health.  This test gives important information about the kind and the number of cells in your blood. Physicians use this information to evaluate symptoms, help diagnose conditions and treat certain illnesses (like infections).

The  Saliva  Hormone  Test  is  the  best  non-invasive  method  for  discovering  any  type  of  hormone  imbalance  in either  males  or  females.  Hormone  imbalance  can  occur  at  any  age  and  can  be  due  to  a  multitude  of  reasons.

The  ovaries  produce  many  of  the  hormones  in  females,  which  also  communicate  with  the  brain  to  either  in-crease  or  decrease  the  release  of  various  other  hormones. The  imbalance  within  the  body  can lead  to  symptoms  experienced  during  a  short  period  of  time  or  for  many  years.

In  men,  the  testes  produce  mainly  95%  of  all  testosterone,  which  is  balanced  by  the  adrenal  gland. The  brain  also  regulates  the  increase  or  decrease  of  hormones  released  within  the  body. The  irregularity  of  testosterone  within  the  body  may  contribute  to  decreased  bone  density,  decreased  muscle  strength  and  decreased  libido.

Even if you are feeling well, routine lab testing is an important part of maintaining your health. If you are looking for a general overview of your health but you are not sure where to start, the Comprehensive Female Panel could be a good option for you. It consists of 11 tests that provide valuable information about your blood counts, kidney and liver function, electrolytes, cholesterol, hemoglobin A1c, thyroid function, and hormone levels. This panel is ideal for women of all ages who want to take control of their health. 

The Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) is a blood test that provides valuable information about your kidney function, liver function, electrolytes, blood sugar, and more. It can be used to detect and monitor a variety of health conditions. This panel is typically requested by your healthcare provider as part of a routine check‐up or annual physical.

The Comprehensive Metabolic Panel includes 15 essential tests:

Electrolytes:

• Sodium (Na)
• Potassium (K)
• Chloride (Cl)
• Carbon Dioxide (CO2)
• Calcium (Ca)

Kidney Function:

• Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN)
• Creatinine (Cr)
• Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR)

Liver Function:

• Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP)
• Bilirubin, Total
• Aspartate Transaminase (AST)
• Alanine Transaminase (ALT)

Additional Tests:

• Albumin
• Total Protein
• Glucose

THESE 5 TESTS ARE INCLUDED IN THIS PANEL:

1. Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH)
2. Total T4
3. Free T4
4. Free T3
5. Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies (TPO)

WHAT DOES THE THYROID GLAND DO?

The thyroid gland is responsible for regulating how your body uses energy through the production of hormones critical to proper cell and system functioning.

There are three main hormones in the thyroid system that should be balanced:

1. TSH: Thyroid Stimulating Hormone is the most important of the hormones in the thyroid system, this stimulates or acts on the thyroid gland, telling it how much of the actual thyroid hormones need to be made.
2. T4: Hormone is produced by the thyroid and travels throughout the body and is converted into T3.
3. T3: The active form of T4.  This is the hormone that goes into the cells and controls their function throughout the body.

A thyroid hormone panel screens for thyroid function and can help diagnose potential thyroid disease by examining your body’s production, levels, or usage of the different thyroid hormones.  There are two types of thyroid and thyroid hormone-related disorders:

1. Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) – symptoms may include fatigue, weight gain, a short attention span, and numbness or cold intolerance.
2. Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) – symptoms may include weight loss, persistent vomiting, increased blood pressure, hair loss, or a persistently fast heart rate.

WHY DO I NEED THIS TEST?

If there is a thyroid level imbalance in your body, you may be more susceptible to everything from osteoporosis and heart disease to infertility and fatigue.

Thyroid disorders are more common in women and they often occur with changes in other hormone levels, such as with pregnancy or with older age.

The Saliva Cortisol test is the least invasive way to measure the level of cortisol in the body.  Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands and regulated by the hypothalamus, a part of the brain, and the pituitary gland.  Cortisol is a critical hormone that helps to break down fat and protein.  The level of cortisol in the body stimulates liver glucose production and helps to maintain blood pressure and regulate the immune system affecting inflammation.  It also helps us react to physical and emotional stress. Free cortisol, which is unbound to a protein, is found in the urine and in the saliva and cortisol levels normally fluctuate throughout the day, with levels being highest in the morning and lowest after midnight.

High levels of cortisol may be caused by Cushing Syndrome, a relatively rare disorder that could result from taking glucocorticoid-steroids for a prolonged period or an adrenal tumor.

Addison’s disease (primary or secondary) or adrenal insufficiency cause low levels of cortisol and may be a result of an autoimmune response to the adrenal glands or an adrenal tumor.  70% of primary adrenal insufficiency is caused by an autoimmune process that ultimately destroys the adrenal cortex.

Cortisol, also known as hydrocortisone, is a hormone released by the adrenal gland in response to stress.  When responding to a stressful situation cortisol prepares the body for a fight or flight response by increasing blood sugar, suppressing the immune system, and aiding in fat, protein and carbohydrate metabolism for increased energy.  Cortisol also prevents the release of substances that cause inflammation so it is used to treat diseases that cause inflammation such as rheumatoid arthritis and allergies.

Although cortisol is critical for our survival, too much cortisol is damaging to the body and can cause hyperglycemia, abdominal fat production, obesity, decreased bone density, compromised immune and inflammation response, increased blood pressure, damage to the heart, and may lead to Cushing’s syndrome.  Too little and our bodies don’t function properly either.  Damage to the adrenal gland or an autoimmune disease can reduce the amount of cortisol produced leading to weight loss, fatigue, low blood pressure, vomiting, diarrhea and loss of consciousness.

Creatinine  is  the  end-product  of  creatine  metabolism.  The  presence  of  creatine  is  primarily  in  muscle.  The  amount  of  creatinine  is  related  to  total  skeletal  muscle  mass.  Daily creatinine  production  is  regular,  except  when  there  is  massive  injury  to  muscle.  In  healthy  individuals,  the  kidneys  excrete  creatinine,  and  blood  levels  and  daily  urinary  excretion  of  creatinine  fluctuates  very  little.

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is caused by a defective gene which causes the body to produce abnormally thick and sticky fluid, called mucus. This mucus builds up in the breathing passages of the lungs and in the pancreas, the organ that helps to break down and absorb food. This collection of sticky mucus results in life-threatening lung infections and serious digestion problems. The disease may also affect the sweat glands and a man’s reproductive system.

The DHEA‐S Test helps in evaluating your adrenal gland function.

Your adrenal glands are two small pieces of tissue that sit atop each kidney. They produce and release certain regulatory hormones and chemical messengers, one of which is Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate or DHEA‐S for short.  It’s a natural steroid hormone produced from cholesterol and it purpose is to serve as a precursor to male and female sex hormones. This hormone is also associated with immune and stress response.

Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR or sed rate) is a test that indirectly measures the degree of inflammation. Inflammation is part of the body’s immune response. It can be acute, which can show an increase in value after trauma, injury or infection. If the ESR is elevated for a long period of time, then it could be seen in conditions like autoimmune disease or cancer. The ESR is used as a screening test and not diagnostic, it provides general information about possible presence of an inflammatory condition. The ESR test has also been good indicator for diagnosis and monitoring of the following diseases, temporal arteritis, polymyaglia rheumatica, and systemic vaculitis.

The Estradiol Test measures the amount of estradiol (a female sex hormone which is basically a form of estrogen) in your blood. The test will determine your estrogen status, evaluate your ovarian function and monitor the follicular development during ovulation. In men, this test is used to assess estrogen production levels.

The Ferritin Test measures the level of ferritin molecules in the blood.

Ferritin is a protein in the body that binds to iron.  The level of ferritin correlates with the total amount of iron stored in the body.   Ferritin is low in those with iron deficiency anemia and high when levels of iron are raised.  Liver dysfunction can cause elevated ferritin levels because the liver is unable to clear it from the body.  Ferritin may also be increased when the body is inflamed or an infection is present.

A  deficiency  of  folic  acid  is  common  in  pregnant  women,  alcoholics,  or  individuals  who  do  not  have  enough  raw  fruits  and  vegetables  in  their  diet.    The  most  reliable  method  of  testing  a  folate  deficiency  is by  checking  the  folate  levels  in  both  erythrocytes  and  serum.

The Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) test measures the amount of FSH, a sex hormone produced by the pituitary gland, in your blood. In women, Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH)  stimulates production of eggs and a hormone called estradiol during the first half of the menstrual cycle.  In men, Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) stimulates production of sperm.

Free T4 measures the free, unbound thyroxine levels in your bloodstream. Free T4 is typically elevated in hyperthyroidism, and lowered in hypothyroidism. Free or unbound T4 levels represent the level of hormone available for uptake and use by cells. Because the free levels of T4 represent immediately available hormone, free T4 is thought to better reflect the patient’s hormonal status than total T4.

Free T3 measures the free, unbound levels of triiodothyronine in your bloodstream. Free T3 is considered more accurate than Total T3. Free T3 is typically elevated in hyperthyroidism, and lowered in hypothyroidism.

Gliadin is one of the major proteins of gluten; the detection of antibodies to gliadin is useful in diagnosing celiac disease. Celiac disease results from an immune-mediated inflammatory process that occurs when someone digests food like wheat, rye, or barley proteins. The detection of the gliadin antibodies is useful in aiding in the diagnosis and monitoring for certain gluten-sensitive enteropathies, such as celiac disease and dermatitis herpetiformis.

The Glucose (Serum) Test, also known as the Fasting Blood Glucose Test, is the most common test used to diagnose hyperglycemia (higher than normal levels of blood sugar), hypoglycemia (lower than normal levels of blood sugar) and diabetes. It’s commonly given by your doctor every year and during pregnancy. In addition, Diabetics self conduct this test multiple times a day to monitor their blood glucose.

The Hemoglobin A1c Test is a valuable measure of the overall blood glucose levels over a period of time (2‐3 months). This test can be used to help detect pre‐diabetes and diagnose diabetes.  If you’re diabetic, this test can help determine if your disease is under control.

The Liver Function Panel (Hepatic Function) measures the blood levels of seven tests that you may want to  check  to  see  how  well  your  liver  is working.    Your  doctor  may  order  it  if  you’re  suffering  from symptoms related to liver disease or if you regularly take medicine, which can affect the liver.  This test is also recommended if you’ve been exposed to a Hepatitis A, B, or C virus.

There are several types of hepatitis – each caused by a different hepatitis virus.  The Hepatitis A Antibody (Total) Test will determine a prior Hepatitis A infection or an acute Hepatitis A infection.

Hepatitis  is  an  inflammation  of  the  liver  that  can  be  contracted  through  unprotected  sex,  using contaminated needles, or other causes.

The C‐Reactive Protein (High Sensitivity, Cardiac) (CRP) is a blood test that measures the amount of protein (called C‐reactive Protein) in your blood that indicates inflammation.  It’s also used to assess your risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD).  “High Sensitivity” means that this particular test can see if you have an increased chance of having a heart problem or heart attack.

The best way to utilize test results is to be tested two different times (typically taken two weeks apart). Your physician will take the average of the two test results to determine your risk for cardiovascular disease or the presence of inflammation.

High levels of CRP are caused by infections and many long‐term diseases. But a CRP test cannot show where the inflammation is located or what is causing it. Other tests are needed to find the cause and location of the inflammation.

Homocysteine is an amino acid that is normally present in very small amounts in the blood.  Normally the vitamins B6, B12, and folate quickly convert homocysteine to other products but when there is a deficiency of these vitamins leaves the amino acid in the blood at higher than normal levels.  There is some evidence that excess homocysteine is linked to atherosclerosis allowing blood clots to form and causing damage to blood vessel walls.

Excess homocysteine is also found in people with a rare genetic disorder called homocystinuria caused by a dysfunctional enzyme that is required for metabolism.  The buildup of this enzyme and homocysteine in infants can cause serious health issues including failure to thrive and people with the disease may develop heart or blood vessel diseases at an early age.

The iodine test is a blood test that checks the iodine level and helps screen for iodine deficiency. Iodine is an essential element that is required for thyroid hormone production of thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). Thyroid hormones help regulate important biochemical reactions, such as protein synthesis and are very critical in metabolic activity. There are several types of food that are good sources of iodine including fish, other types of seafood and eggs. Table salt also has iodine added to it.

There might be certain groups of people that are at risk of iodine inadequacies, such as people who do not use iodized salt or those living in a region with low iodine sources, pregnant women, vegans or people who eat few to no dairy products, seafood, and eggs.

Iron is an essential nutrient that is required for the production of healthy red blood cells. Red blood cells carry oxygenated blood from your lungs to the rest of the body. Iron is essential to maintain healthy bone marrow, muscles, and organ function. The serum iron test measures the amount of iron in the blood, and if the levels are abnormal it can cause serious health problems.

The Luteinizing Hormone or LH Test measures how much of the hormone is in your blood.   The LH is produced by the pituitary gland in both men and women.

In females, this hormone helps regulate the menstrual cycle and egg production.  It is common to see LH levels rise and fall during the monthly menstrual cycle.  It is also useful in the production of estrogen and progesterone.

In males, LH is responsible for the release of testosterone (which plays a role in producing sperm).

Lyme disease is common in the United States and is spread by infected ticks that then bite people or animals.  There are two types of ticks that carry Lyme disease in the United States: the deer tick in the Northeast and Midwest and the Western black-legged tick along the Pacific Coast.  If left untreated, Lyme disease can lead to problems with your skin, joints, nervous system and heart such as meningitis, joint pain, weakness and numbness of the arms and legs, memory problems, and less commonly irregular heartbeat and eye inflammation.  These issues can occur months or even years after a Lyme disease infection.  The presence of antibodies cannot always determine if the Lyme disease infection is recent or due to a tick bite in the past, but can provide information that your doctor can use to treat the infection.

Magnesium is a critical electrolyte that is necessary for proper muscle, nerve and enzyme function and is necessary for the body to make and use energy.  It also assists in the movement of other electrolytes, such as sodium and potassium, into and out of cells.  Low levels of magnesium are associated with cardiac arrhythmia.

The majority of magnesium in the body is found in bones and inside cells so the amount of magnesium in the blood is normally very small.  Magnesium levels can be easily increased through supplements or diet.  Foods that contain magnesium include whole grain products, leafy green vegetables, nuts and beans.  Some studies have also found that consuming foods rich in magnesium reduces the risk of stroke.

Measles, also called Rubeola, is a highly contagious virus that can be very serious if contracted by children. The infection causes a fever, cough, runny nose, conjunctivitis, and a rash that begins on the face and spreads to the rest of the body. In very young children, measles can lead to pneumonia as the virus spreads to the lungs. In older children the virus could lead to pneumonia, croup, diarrhea or swelling of the brain (encephalitis) which could cause seizures and brain damage.
A measles infection in pregnant women can be very serious for the unborn child. The virus can be passed from the mother to the baby and could cause premature birth or spontaneous abortions. While this is rare, due to the increase in early childhood vaccination, it is important to know whether you are immune to the virus before becoming pregnant.

Mononucleosis is a viral infection caused by the Epstein Barr virus and is common in adolescents and young adults. Often times, there are no symptoms, but others feel tired, feverish, have a sore throat, etc.

The Mononucleosis  Test  (Qualitative) will detect what’s called ‘heterophil antibodies’ in your blood (related to mono).  Keep in mind, if you’ve had mononucleosis in the past, you will always test positive for it.

The ova and parasite test is used to determine whether you have a parasitic infection in your digestive tract. When you have a parasite infecting your gastrointestinal tract, which can cause symptoms such as diarrhea, the parasite and ova (eggs) are shed from the lower digestive tract into the stool.  Most people who are infected by parasites in their gastrointestinal tract have been infected by drinking water or eating food that has been contaminated with the ova.

The most common symptoms of parasitic infections in the lower gastrointestinal tract are prolonged diarrhea, blood or mucus in stool, nausea and abdominal pain. Serious health complications can be seen in people with weakened immune systems.

The Amylase Test is a blood test that measures the level of amylase in the blood.

The Lipase Test measures the level of lipase in the blood.

The Phenytoin Lab Test measures the level of phenytoin (Dilantin) in the blood.

Phosphate is a charged ion in the blood that contains phosphorus, which is critical for building and repairing bones and teeth, helping nerves function, and making muscles contract.  It works closely with calcium in the body and most phosphorus (85%) is stored in the bones.  The kidneys filter extra phosphate out of the body and it is then eliminated in urine.  The parathyroid gland controls the level of phosphate and calcium in the body, but several diseases or infections could disrupt the relationship between phosphorus and calcium.

Potassium is a simple mineral that is important for the regulation of our heartbeat.  It, along with other electrolytes like sodium and chloride, helps to maintain the proper fluid and electrolyte balance, stimulates muscle contraction, and helps to regulate the acid and base balance in the body.  Each heart muscle needs the right balance of potassium to beat in a coordinated way with all the other heart muscles.  If you have high blood pressure, heart arrhythmias or have had heart failure it is especially important to get enough potassium.

Potassium can easily be found in our food and eating a healthy diet of fruits and vegetables will almost always ensure enough potassium in the body.  The USDA recommends that adults consume 4,700 mg of potassium per day.  Potassium-rich foods include potatoes, tomatoes, avocadoes, bananas, oranges, strawberries, spinach, peas and beans, and nuts and seeds.  Increasing your intake of fruits and vegetables will also lead to other benefits such as lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.   Although the link between hypertension and cholesterol isn’t direct, many diets that lower cholesterol and blood pressure are also high in potassium.  Research has also shown that increasing potassium intake reduces the risk of stroke.

The Pregnancy Test (Yes or No) is a blood test that detects the presence of hCG. This test can tell you if you are pregnant or not- “Yes” or “No” (positive or negative). This test cannot tell you how far along you are in the pregnancy; if you are interested in detecting pregnancy and also knowing how far along you are, check out the Pregnancy with Gestational Age (How Far Along) Test.

Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a hormone produced by the placenta during pregnancy. hCG may be detectable in blood or urine around 7-11 days after conception. It reaches peak levels between the 7th and 10th week of gestation, then declines throughout the rest of the pregnancy. hCG can also be produced in other conditions, such as hydatidiform mole, choriocarcinoma, testicular neoplasm, and more. 

The Pregnancy with Gestational Age (How Far Along) Test is a blood test that detects the presence and levels of hCG. It not only tells you if you are pregnant, but it also tells you how far along you are in the pregnancy (if you are at least 2 weeks pregnant at the time of the test).

Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a hormone produced by the placenta during pregnancy. hCG may be detectable in blood or urine around 7-11 days after conception. It reaches peak levels between the 7th and 10th week of gestation, then declines throughout the rest of the pregnancy. hCG can also be produced in other conditions, such as hydatidiform mole, choriocarcinoma, testicular neoplasm, and more. 

An OB panel is a group of blood tests done to check the health or a woman during early pregnancy.

The Progesterone Test measures the amount of the hormone in your blood. Progesterone is a female hormone produced by the ovaries and it’s essential for pregnancy. It prepares the uterus for fertilization and produces breast milk. The hormone also plays a role in sexual desire.

Prolactin levels are a good measure if there is a dysfunction within your body.  Symptoms that may trigger someone to check their prolactin level include nipple discharge, headaches and visual problems, infertility (male and female), impotence, possible pituitary tumor, prolactinomas and irregular or no menstrual periods.

Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) is a protein made in the prostate gland. The PSA, Total test measures the amount of PSA in the blood.

PSA is either bound or unbound (free) in the blood. Bound PSA is attached to other proteins; free PSA is not attached to other proteins.

Elevated PSA levels may be found in conditions such as benign prostatic hyperplasia, prostatitis, prostate cancer, and others. PSA may also be elevated due to certain medications or urologic procedures.

The PSA test is not diagnostic of cancer, and PSA test results should be followed up by a healthcare provider.

Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) is a protein made in the prostate gland. The PSA, Free and Total test measures the amount of PSA in the blood.

PSA is either bound or unbound (free) in the blood. Bound PSA is attached to other proteins; free PSA is not attached to other proteins.

Free PSA may be tested if your total PSA is within a certain range. Lower levels of free PSA may be found in prostate cancer, whereas higher levels of free PSA may be found in non-cancerous conditions of the prostate.

Elevated total PSA levels may be found in conditions such as benign prostatic hyperplasia, prostatitis, prostate cancer, and others. Total PSA may also be elevated due to certain medications or urologic procedures.

The PSA test is not diagnostic of cancer, and PSA test results should be followed up by a healthcare provider. 

The Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (aPTT) measures the body’s Ability To Form Blood Clots appropriately.

The Prothrombin Time (PT) Test is a blood test used to measure the body’s ability to form blood clots and the time is measured against the International Normalized Ratio (INR).

The reverse T3 blood test is used to help determine if an individual has sick euthyroid syndrome. Reverse T3 (rT3) is a byproduct of thyroid hormone metabolism. Reverse T3 is biologically inactive and does not stimulate thyroid hormone receptors. If you suspect of thyroid dysfunction usually the thyroid tests that are completed are TSH, T3, and T4. The reverse T3 is added to gather more information regarding your thyroid health.

If your joints hurt from walking up stairs, opening up jars or other routine activity, you may want to take the RA Factor Test.   Rheumatoid arthritis often causes problems in several joints at the same time – affecting your smaller joints like wrists and ankles first. As the disease progresses, your shoulders, elbows, knees, hips, jaw and neck can also become involved.  Basically, your whole body hurts and it’s not fun.

Adrenal glands that are in balance produce adequate amounts of hormones to power us through the day. These hormones impact just about every process in the body, from energy production and immune activity to cellular maintenance and repair. They are key regulators of glucose, insulin and inflammation, and play a major role in bone and muscle building, mood and mental focus, stamina, sex drive and sleep cycles.

This kit tests the adrenal hormones DHEA-S and Cortisol, the master stress hormone. When individuals experience continuous stress, not only from emotional stressors (e.g., marital, financial, and occupational) but also from physical stressors (e.g., sleep deprivation, caffeine consumption, pain, extreme exercise), it can lead to changes in adrenal hormone levels, related to disorders ranging from anxiety to allergies and irritability to infertility.

This kit is available for purchase in-store or online.

People with sickle cell disease (or anemia) have an abnormal form of blood cell (Hemoglobin S) which causes the red blood cells to be curved into crescent or “sickle” shape and not the normal, round shape.  Round blood cells pass through blood vessels easily, carrying oxygen throughout your body.  Sickle shaped blood cells can get stuck, block blood vessels and prevent oxygen from getting through.  Symptoms of sickle cell disease are very painful and can cause long term damage to organs, muscles and bones.  Painful episodes due to blocked blood vessels can cause pain in the hands, feet, belly, back or chest.  Sickle cell disease may also cause numerous infections and anemia leading to weakness and fatigue.

Skin vitality tests help you uncover the root causes for skin problems.

Our skin has a abundance of hormone receptor sites and our facial skin in particular, has a very high concentration of estrogen receptors so the effects of declining hormones typically make their first appearance on the face. Many people who experience premature aging, unexplained skin rashes, breakouts and excess facial or body hair are also likely to have an undetected hormone imbalance.

The Skin Vitality Take Home Hormone Kit consists of a dried blood spot test for measurement of thyroid and Vitamin D hormones and four saliva tests performed throughout the day to capture peaks and troughs of steroid and adrenal hormone production.

Test results can pinpoint hormone deficiencies or excesses that may contribute to skin problems.

This kit is available for purchase in-store or online.

More than 60 million Americans suffer from some degree of sleep loss. It’s no surprise that many of us are still unaware of the connection between hormones and sleep.

Common hormone-related causes of sleep loss:

• High cortisol results in insomnia, anxiety, sugar cravings, feeling tired but wired & increased belly fat
• Low Melatonin results in excessive fatigue, depression, anxiety & insomnia

To restore the vital balance of hormones, you need to start with an accurate measurement of hormone levels.

The Sleep Balance Take Home Hormone Kit includes:

A dried urine test to measure Melatonin levels ( Melatonin (MT6s x 4))
A dried urine test to measure Cortisol levels (Free Cortisol (C x 4))

This kit is available in-store or for purchase online.

This test measures the total amount of circulating thyroxine in your blood. Thyroxine, a hormone produced by the thyroid, is also known as T4. A high value can indicate hyperthyroidism, a low value can indicate hypothyroidism. Total T4 levels can be elevated due to pregnancy, and other high estrogen states, including use of estrogen replacement or birth control pills.

The Testosterone, Free (Direct), Serum with Total Test will determine the level of testosterone (free and total) in your blood.

Testosterone is a hormone (commonly produced in males, but is also in females in small amounts) that affects sexual features and development.  Testosterone levels explode in men after puberty and continue to rise until about age 40.

Overall, this test will give you a better understanding of how much testosterone is in your blood.

Testosterone is a male hormone that helps to maintain bone density, fat distribution, muscle strength and mass, red blood cell production, sex drive and sperm production.  As men age, levels of testosterone naturally decline by about 1% per year after age 30. Extremely low levels of testosterone may be caused by a disease (hypogonadism) in which the body isn’t able to produce enough of the hormone because of a problem with the testicles or the pituitary gland which promotes testosterone production.

If you are considering androgen/testosterone replacement therapy you need to be aware of your overall health so that you are not surprised by new health problems that pop up once you begin therapy.  These screening may uncover underlying issues so that these can be treated before you begin therapy.  In some cases you will not be eligible to receive testosterone therapy if you have one of these conditions because they can cause serious symptoms and health issues.

Thyroglobulin is produced by normal or cancerous thyroid cells.  When a person develops an autoimmune disease that attacks the thyroid, the body produces thyroglobulin antibodies that damage the thyroid.  The test can be used to distinguish an autoimmune thyroid disease from other thyroid diseases, for example, to find the causes of goiter or high or low thyroid hormone levels.

Your thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in the lower front part of your neck. Its job is to secrete hormones that control growth/development during childhood, regulate your metabolism and body temperature, and drive the production of neurotransmitters that help you feel good and others that motivate you to accomplish your goals: serotonin, dopamine, adrenaline, and noradrenaline.

8 Factors that Inhibit Healthy Thyroid Function:

• Excess stress and cortisol production
• Selenium deficiency
• Deficient protein, excess sugar
• Chronic illness
• Compromised liver or kidney function
• Cadmium, mercury, lead toxicity
• Herbicides, pesticides
• Oral contraceptives, excessive estrogen production

Thyroid disease or dysfunction can explain a wide variety of symptoms, yet it is notoriously under-diagnosed. The American Thyroid Association estimates that over 12% of the US population will develop thyroid disease during their lifetime, and that as many as 60% of people with thyroid disease are not aware of it.  Many elements that can affect the thyroid are present in the food we eat, air we breathe, and water we drink and are tasteless and odorless, so they are impossible to detect without testing.

This kit can be purchased in-store or online.

The Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies test assists in the diagnosis of thyroid diseases such as endemic goiter, Graves Disease, autoimmune thyroiditis, Addison’s Disease, insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, Hashimoto’s Disease, and polyendocrine auto-immunopathies.

The thyroid gland is responsible for regulating how your body uses energy. The thyroid also produces hormones critical to proper cell and system functioning.

The Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) test checks your body’s production of TSH and helps screen  for thyroid disease, hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism.

There are two types of thyroid disorders including:

• Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) – symptoms may include fatigue, weight gain, a short attention span, and numbness or cold intolerance.
• Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) – symptoms may include weight loss, persistent vomiting, increased blood pressure, hair loss or a persistently fast heart rate.

The Iron and Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC) Test measures the amount of iron in your blood.  Having too much or too little iron in your blood can cause medical problems.  However, this test is mainly used to determine certain types of anemia.

Uric acid is the byproduct of the breakdown of purines. This test measures the level of uric acid in the blood. This blood test is used to detect high levels of uric acid in the blood to help diagnose gout. Also, the presence of high uric acid can lead to kidney stones or kidney failure. This test can also be used to monitor levels of uric acid for people that are undergoing chemotherapy or radiation treatment for cancer.

The Urinalysis can determine a number of health problems. It will see if your kidneys are functioning normally, if sugar is present in your urine, if you’re burning fat or if you have a urinary tract infection.  In addition, it can locate substances that may be causing everything from metabolic problems to kidney disorders.  Some doctors request a Urinalysis before surgery or during the early stages of pregnancy.

Vitamin B-12, also called cobalamin, is a water soluble vitamin that plays a key role in the formation of blood (red blood cells and white blood cells), normal functioning of the brain and nervous system. Vitamin B-12 is one of the eight B vitamins, and it is involved in the metabolism of every cell in the human body.

Vitamin D is a fat soluble vitamin that interacts with and regulates more than 200 genes in the body.  Your body absorbs Vitamin D from exposure to sunlight or ultraviolet light on exposed skin, and from plants, fortified foods and supplements.

Undetected hormone imbalance can be the missing link as to why achieving and maintaining your optimal weight has been unsuccessful, despite your best efforts with diet and exercise.

The Weight Management kit is ideal for women and men who are struggling with weight issues, menopause or andropause and anyone wanting to get to the root of general health concerns.

The Weight Management Take Home Hormone Kit consists of a dried blood spot test and a saliva test. The test measures bioavailable hormone levels for those with unexplained weight gain, obesity, abdominal fat, high BMI and low metabolism.

This kit is available in-store or for purchase online.