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Nutrition blood test - phlebotomist

Nutrition blood test - phlebotomist

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    A phlebotomist will come to you

    If you'd rather not collect your own blood sample, then this is the option for you.

    We will arrange for a professional phlebotomist to visit you at your home or place of work.

    How does a nutrition test help you?

    This test analyses the most important nutrition blood markers for optimal health and longevity.

    By testing for vitamin D, you can optimise your levels during the winter, reduce the risk of infections and maintain energy.

    Active B12 and folate are essential for optimal energy production and hundreds of processes in the body.

    Omega-3 is essential for skin and brain health and managing overall inflammation in the body.

    Keeping track on your cholesterol levels is essential for heart and brain health.

    Optimal health and energy are built on solid foundations. If there is one simple blood test you should do, it's this one.

    When levels of essential vitamins and minerals are low they can adversely affect numerous important systems in the body. Skin problems, poor sleep, tiredness, brain fog, and our ability to deal with stress can all be improved.

    "Trying to optimise longevity pathways without fixing the basic fundamentals is likeing pouring water into a leaky bucket." Dr Geoff Mullan Chief Medical Officer

    Essential vitamins

    Vitamin D, Active B12, Folate (viatmin B9)

    Essential minerals

    Magnesium, ferritin (iron)

    Essential fatty acids

    Omega 3 index. Omega 6:3 ratio.

    Cholesterol and CRP

    Total cholesterol, HDL, LDL , triglycerides, Chol: HDL, hs-CRP

    Track and measure

    Mobile phone showing a humanpeople dashboard

    Personal dashboard

    Your results will be uploaded to your personal secure dashboard.

    You can track progress over time and optimise your essential nutrient status.

    Personal recommendations

    Your results will be integrated with your health assessment.

    One of our medical team will review these and make nutrition, lifestyle and supplement recommendations.

    Innovative blood collection device

    Use our innovative home collection device to make blood collection simple and easy to do at home.

    See the video below to see it in action.

    What do we measure?

    You can read below for more details on each marker we test:

    Omega-3 Index: Gauges heart health and inflammation levels.

    Omega-6:3 Ratio: Indicator of inflammatory balance in the body.

    Vitamin D: Boosts bone health and immune function.

    Folate (Vitamin B9): Essential for DNA synthesis and mood regulation.

    Vitamin B12: Vital for nerve function and energy production.

    Magnesium: Key for muscle function and nervous system regulation.

    Ferritin/Iron Storage: Evaluates body's iron reserves.

    Total Cholesterol: Assesses overall cardiovascular risk.

    LDL Cholesterol: Indicates potential arterial plaque buildup.

    Triglycerides: Marker for fat metabolism and heart health.

    Chol:HDL Ratio: Holistic cardiovascular health predictor.

    hs-CRP: Sensitive marker of systemic inflammation.

    What the test can tell us

    Essential vitamins

    Vitamin D

    Vitamin D, commonly dubbed the "sunshine vitamin," isn't just vital for bone health—it's actually a powerful hormone that affects multiple systems in the body, from testosterone levels to immune function and exercise recovery. 

    Ensuring optimal levels of this hormone can supercharge your energy, making daily tasks feel less strenuous and even enhancing athletic performance. When athletes harness the potential of vitamin D, they often experience improved muscle function, reduced injury rates, and quicker recovery times. 

    Beyond elite sports, adequate vitamin D levels can elevate your mood, bolster your immune system, and stave off illness. 

    In the UK, 89% of our tests done in the Winter have shown below-optimal levels of vitamin D.

    Our tip: if you supplement with vitamin D, choose a supplement blended with at least 250mcg of vitamin K2 Mk7 for increased benefits.

    Folate (vitamin B9)

    Folate, also known as Vitamin B9, is critical in many of the body's vital processes. Not just pivotal for prenatal health and DNA synthesis, it also has a significant bearing on energy, muscle recovery, and overall cognitive functions. 

    However, a key factor to consider is the MTHFR gene variation. This genetic variation can impair the body's ability to convert dietary folate into its active form, potentially leading to lower folate levels in the body. 

    Individuals with MTHFR mutations might experience difficulties metabolising and utilising folate efficiently, which can subsequently impact mood and heighten the risk of mood disorders. 

    Ensuring optimal folate intake and monitoring for MTHFR mutations is akin to fine-tuning your body's internal machinery, setting the stage for enhanced energy, improved mood, and overall health harmony.

    At humanpeople, 22% of people who have tested folate levels are deficient, almost twice as common as B12 deficiency.

    Our tip: If you have low folate levels and are considering taking a supplement, avoid the synthetic folic acid version. A common cause of low folate is a deficiency in the MTHFR enzyme, which means you can’t use folic acid and may even worsen things.

    Vitamin B12 (active)

    Measuring the active form of B12 gives insight into how much is available for the body to use. A simple B12 level is often inaccurate in terms of function. It’s common knowledge that low vitamin B12 has a significant impact on daily energy levels and is easily corrected.

    Why is Vitamin B12 important? sometimes referred to as cobalamin, it is an essential cofactor in many of our body's processes. It is crucial for the synthesis of DNA, the proper functioning of nerve cells, and the production of red blood cells.

    It's also intricately linked to mood and cognitive function; a deficiency can manifest in many ways from fatigue to severe neurological symptoms. 

    Interesting fact: It’s a myth that the body doesn’t store water-soluble vitamins. B12 can be stored in the liver for years, a testament to its importance. 11% of people who test with us are deficient in B12.

    Top tip: If you supplement with the bioavailable forms of B12 like methylcobalamin and hydroxocobalamin they are just as effective as B12 injections. It’s best to avoid the synthetic cyanocobalamin, we’re not fans of anything that has a cyanide molecule attached!

    Essential fatty acids omega-3,6

    Why test for omega-3?

    Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are crucial unsaturated fats vital to the body's physiological functions. These essential fats are not produced by our bodies naturally and must be sourced through our diet.

    Omega-3 fatty acids, in particular, are instrumental in various body functions, including hormone production and ensuring optimal brain health. Their anti-inflammatory properties not only assist in reducing inflammation but also help in potentially lowering the risk of heart disease. Conversely, while omega-6 fatty acids are equally vital for our overall health, they tend to promote inflammation. Prolonged, excessive inflammation is a concern because it can lead to chronic diseases.

    This interplay of anti-inflammatory and pro-inflammatory properties between omega-3 and omega-6 underscores the importance of a balanced intake. The ideal omega-6 to omega-3 ratio is believed to be around 2:1. However, the typical Western diet leans heavily on omega-6, pushing this ratio to an alarming 10:1. This skewed intake is a harbinger of chronic inflammation and is associated with heightened risks of ailments such as heart disease, arthritis, diabetes, and certain cancers.

    To safeguard against these potential health risks, it's pivotal to monitor and adjust the omega-6 to omega-3 ratio in one's diet. Our nutrition blood test evaluates your omega-3 index and the crucial omega-6 to omega-3 ratio, providing insights into your fatty acid balance. By gauging these values, iyou can make informed dietary changes, increasing omega-3-rich foods, and consequently improve their overall health profile.

    Omega-3 index

    The omega-3 index is a measure of the amount of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA, in your blood. Think of it as a "health gauge" for your cells. Having a higher omega-3 index means you're supplying your body with fats that can reduce inflammation, support your brain, and protect your heart. In simple terms, by keeping an eye on this index and aiming for higher levels, you're giving your body a better chance to balance inflammation and improve exercise recovery.

    It is measured as a percentage of the total amount of omega-3 in the red blood cells and expressed as a percentage. Anything about 8% is very good.

    Omega 6:3 ratios

    The omega 6:3 ratio represents the balance between omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids in your blood. Ideally, you'd want a ratio close to 2:1, signalling a balanced intake of these essential fats. 

    A higher ratio, often seen in modern diets, due to a high intake of omega-6-rich seed oils means you're consuming more inflammation-promoting omega-6s than the protective omega-3s. By keeping this ratio in check, you ensure that your body gets the benefits of both fats without the potential harm of too much inflammation. Monitoring and adjusting this ratio is like fine-tuning your diet for optimal health.

    Importance for skin health

    Skin Health:

    • Inflammation and Acne: Omega-3s have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the severity of acne and other inflammatory skin conditions.
    • Skin Dryness: Essential fatty acids are crucial for maintaining the health of the skin barrier, which can help prevent dryness and eczema.
    • Sun Protection: Some studies suggest that omega-3s can help protect the skin from harmful UV radiation, though it's not a substitute for sunscreen.
    • Aging: Omega-3s can potentially help reduce premature skin aging, thanks to their anti-inflammatory properties and role in maintaining skin cell health.

    Importance for brain health

    • Memory and Cognition: Omega-3s, particularly DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), are essential components of the brain and play a pivotal role in cognitive function and memory.
    • Mood Disorders: There's evidence suggesting that imbalances in omega fatty acids may be linked to mood disorders like depression and anxiety. Maintaining a balanced omega ratio can potentially support mood regulation.
    • Neurological Development: For pregnant and breastfeeding mothers, adequate omega-3 intake is vital for the neurological development of the fetus and infant.
    • Neurodegenerative Diseases: Some studies indicate that a higher intake of omega-3s might be linked to a reduced risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.

    Importance for inflammatory conditions

    • Individuals Diagnosed with Chronic Inflammatory Conditions Such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, IBD, and others.
    • Athletes Who want to ensure optimal recovery and reduced inflammation post-exercise.
    • People with Known Heart Conditions: Cardiovascular diseases often have an inflammatory component.
    • Individuals with Lifestyle Factors or Diets That might predispose them to inflammation, such as high intake of processed foods, sedentary behaviours, or chronic stress.

    Essential minerals

    Magnesium

    Magnesium is the most underreported mineral deficiency, partly due to the difficulty in getting an accurate level.

    Low levels affect sleep, mood, and exercise performance and can cause heart arrhythmias.

    Magnesium is the major intracellular mineral that plays a pivotal role in over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body. From energy production and muscle contraction to maintaining the integrity of DNA and RNA, its importance is vast and varied. 

    A balancing agent for calcium, magnesium is crucial for muscle relaxation, and its interplay with calcium helps maintain heart rhythm and bone health. 

    Moreover, this mineral has a calming effect on the nervous system, aiding sleep and mood regulation. 

    Interesting fact: The human body contains about 25 grams of magnesium, with over 50% of that stored in the skeletal system. 

    Top tip: While magnesium is present in various foods like leafy greens and nuts, soaking in a bath with Epsom salts can provide a soothing way to absorb this essential mineral and aid in muscle relaxation and stress relief.

    There are multiple different types of magnesium supplements to improve sleep we recommend magnesium glycinate.

    Ferritin (Iron)

    Maintaining optimal iron levels ensures robust energy, sharp cognitive function, and a strong immune system, fueling the body's vital processes, from oxygen transportation to DNA synthesis. While iron deficiency is more prevalent among women, particularly those of childbearing age, due to menstruation, men are not exempt and can also experience low iron levels, especially if their diets lack iron-rich foods or they have absorption issues.

    Ferritin is a biological storage unit for iron in the body, acting as a reservoir from which iron can be drawn when necessary. 

    Iron is integral to numerous bodily functions; it's a core component of haemoglobin, ensuring our blood cells transport oxygen efficiently from the lungs to every cell. 

    Maintaining adequate ferritin and iron storage levels is paramount for energy and endurance, cognitive function, immune defence, and overall metabolic health. When levels dip too low, it can cause fatigue, shortness of breath, and an increased susceptibility to infections. 

    Interesting fact: Ferritin levels can act as an early warning system. Even before you exhibit outward symptoms of iron deficiency, a drop in ferritin can signal a decline in iron reserves. 

    Top tip: Consuming vitamin C-rich foods alongside iron-rich foods can enhance the body's absorption of iron.

    Cholesterol and lipids

    Total Cholesterol

    From as young as 35 years old our cholesterol levels start to increase. Heart disease remains the number 1 cause of age-related diseases and a reduced healthy life expectancy.

    Keeping a check on your cholesterol is a good indicator of your overall metabolic health and the impact your diet and lifestyle are having on your insides.

    Yet cholesterol is often misunderstood. Despite its reputation, cholesterol is a fundamental lipid with pivotal roles, including the formation of cell walls and the creation of vital hormones like testosterone and oestradiol.

    Originating in the liver and influenced by our diet, cholesterol's story isn't black and white. It's composed mainly of HDL, the "good" cholesterol that guards against heart ailments, and LDL, which, at elevated levels, can be a heart health adversary. 

    Your total cholesterol number alone doesn't give the full picture; the intricate balance and ratio between HDL and LDL truly matters. 

    A high total cholesterol might be misleading if HDL levels are also high, which can be heart-protective. Conversely, a seemingly normal total cholesterol can mask low beneficial HDL levels. Looking at your cholesterol profile to understand the nuances of each component for a comprehensive heart health assessment.

    Top tip: When checking cholesterol levels make sure to do so on after fasting overnight. If your levels are high there are lots of simple and enjoyable lifestyle changes you can make before considering medication.

    HDL Cholesterol

    LDL Cholesterol

    A high LDL level is often considered an indicator of poor health because LDL cholesterol plays a central role in the formation of atherosclerotic plaques. When LDL levels are elevated, there is a greater chance for cholesterol to be deposited in the arterial walls. Over time, these deposits harden and lead to the narrowing and stiffening of the arteries, a condition known as atherosclerosis. This process reduces blood flow and increases the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes. Furthermore, if an atherosclerotic plaque ruptures, it can trigger a blood clot, further obstructing blood flow and potentially leading to acute heart or brain events. 

    LDL cholesterol, or low-density lipoprotein, acts as the body's delivery truck, transporting cholesterol, triglycerides, and other fats to tissues that need them. However, when its levels rise too high, LDL gains the moniker "bad cholesterol" for a reason: it can deposit fats within artery walls. These deposits, over time, can narrow and harden the arteries, setting the stage for atherosclerosis and elevating the risk of heart disease. Monitoring and managing LDL levels is essential to ensure these internal roadways stay clear and heart health remains optimal.

    Top tip: If LDL cholesterol levels and triglyceride levels are both raised it is time to take action. This is often referred to as a pre-diabetes state. If your levels are high there are lots of simple and enjoyable lifestyle changes you can make before considering medication. Intermittent fasting can be particularly helpful.

    Triglycerides

    Triglycerides are a type of fat found in the blood, sourced from the foods we eat and also produced naturally by our bodies. While they play a key role in providing energy for cellular functions, elevated triglyceride levels can signal health concerns. 

    High triglyceride levels are linked to the accumulation of fatty deposits in arteries, increasing the risk for atherosclerosis, much like LDL cholesterol. Moreover, elevated triglycerides are often associated with conditions like obesity, insulin resistance, and metabolic syndrome, which collectively up the ante for heart disease and stroke. In essence, consistently high triglyceride levels serve as an alarm bell, indicating potential metabolic imbalances and a heightened risk for cardiovascular ailments.

    Top tip: If triglyceride levels are raised, be careful with your alcohol intake. The liver is responsible for metabolising alcohol. When alcohol is consumed, especially in significant amounts, the liver prioritises processing it. During this process, the liver increases the production of triglycerides.

    Cholesterol: HDL ratio

    The cholesterol-to-HDL ratio is a well-studied ratio used to assess the risk of cardiovascular diseases. It's derived by dividing the total cholesterol by the HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein) cholesterol. Here's why it's significant:

    • More comprehensive: Instead of just focusing on total cholesterol or HDL alone, the ratio provides a wider view of cardiovascular risk. 
    • Lower ratios indicate a lower risk of heart disease, whereas higher ratios suggest a higher risk.
    • Better Predictor: Some studies have suggested that the cholesterol-to-HDL ratio is a better predictor of heart disease risk than LDL or total cholesterol levels alone.
    • Top Tips if it is raised:
    • A ratio below 4:1 is generally considered desirable. The lower the ratio, the better.
    • Boost Your HDL: Regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, and moderate alcohol consumption can help increase HDL levels.
    • Reduce Saturated and Trans Fats: Opt for a diet low in saturated and trans fats to manage total cholesterol levels.
    • Regular Monitoring: Regularly check your cholesterol levels 3 times over a course of a year to make sure they are improving.

    Inflammation: hs-CRP

    High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) is a protein found in the blood, and its measurement is a significant marker for inflammation in the body. Here's why it's crucial:

    • Cardiovascular Disease Indicator: Research has shown that elevated hs-CRP levels are linked to an increased risk of heart diseases, including heart attacks. It acts as a predictor for cardiovascular events beyond traditional risk factors like cholesterol levels.
    • Systemic Inflammation Marker: While CRP is produced by the liver in response to inflammation, hs-CRP can detect even minor elevations, providing a sensitive marker for low-grade inflammation that may not present with obvious symptoms.
    • Association with Other Diseases: Elevated hs-CRP levels have been associated with conditions like metabolic syndrome, diabetes, and even certain cancers. Chronic inflammation, marked by a consistently high hs-CRP, is often underlying these conditions.
    • Influence on Treatment: For individuals with moderate cardiovascular risk, an elevated hs-CRP can be the deciding factor for healthcare professionals when considering the commencement or intensification of treatment, such as statin therapy.
    • Lifestyle and Inflammation: Factors such as poor diet, lack of exercise, smoking, and obesity can raise inflammation levels. By measuring hs-CRP, one can gauge the inflammatory impact of their lifestyle and make necessary changes.

    Top Tips:

    • Healthy Diet: Consume a diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and fatty fish.
    • Stay Active: Regular exercise can help reduce inflammation. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days of the week.
    • Limit Processed Foods: Reduce intake of processed, sugary, and fried foods, which can exacerbate inflammation.
    • Manage Stress: Chronic stress is a contributor to inflammation. Find stress-reducing techniques that work for you, be it meditation, deep breathing exercises, or hobbies.

    Own your health

    Reviewed by Doctors

    Your personal video explaining your results.

    Trusted source

    Registered and regulated in the UK by the CQC.

    Track your results

    Personalised dashboard tracking

    frequently asked questions

    FAQ

    Does the blood test hurt?

    No, the blood test really is painless. It doesn't even use needles!

    When will I get my results?

    Results are back within 5 working days, but we can often do a lot quicker than that. The exception is omega 3 which needs to go to a specialist lab. and results can take a few weeks.

    Will you really send a video explaining my results at no extra cost?

    Yes! We make it simple to understand your results and recommendations by sending a video of a Doctor explaining them.

    Is humanpeople a registered and regulated company?

    Yes. Unlike a lot of other blood testing companies in the UK. humanpeople is registered with the CQC as a health and diagnostic company.

    That means we are reviewed and must follow strict UK guidelines on giving results and advice.

    The labs. we use are also regulated by CQC.

    You can check out our registration details here.

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