Lecture Notes: Understanding Blood Work and Testing

Introduction

Direct Labs Process:
- Select and purchase lab tests online.
- Print a requisition form.
- Visit a lab (e.g., Quest Diagnostics) for a blood draw.
- Receive results in 3-5 days.
Benefits:
- Quick and efficient (5-minute lab visits).
- More affordable ($300-$400).
- Customizable test panels.

Advanced Panel:
- Comprehensive tests.
- Includes testosterone, lipid panel, hscrp, and more.
Basic Panel:
- Less comprehensive but still valuable.
Customization Options:
- Add or remove specific tests (e.g., glycomark).

Lipid Panel:
- HDL, triglycerides, LDL.
- Goal: Keep HDL high, triglycerides low.
Inflammation Markers:
- HSCRP: Indicator for inflammation, artery health.
- Homocysteine: Removed in newer version.
Metabolic Panel:
- Glucose, urea nitrogen, creatinine, eGFR.
- Indicators of kidney function.
Liver Health Indicators:
- Bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase, AST, ALT.
- Slight elevation normal with training.
Hemoglobin A1C:
- Provides 90-day average of blood glucose.
- Better overall indicator than fasting glucose.
Thyroid Function:
- TSH, free T3 (added in newer version).

Fasting Insulin:
- Crucial for understanding pancreatic function.
- High insulin with normal glucose can indicate future issues.
Vitamin D Levels:
- Importance of maintaining adequate vitamin D (goal: ~50).
- Speaker's personal regimen to improve vitamin D levels.
DHEA Sulfate:
- Anti-aging hormone, stress-related.

Purpose of the Presentation:
- To provide an affordable and comprehensive alternative for blood testing.
- To inform on what tests are critical for health monitoring.
Commission Disclosure:
- The speaker earns a commission on test orders through provided links.
Final Note:
- Importance of regular check-ups and being proactive about health.
- Provided links for ordering tests.