Weight-loss management Advanced

The ALT test, also known as Alanine Aminotransferase test, is a blood test that helps to evaluate the health of your liver. The liver is an important organ that performs various functions in your body, such as filtering toxins, producing bile for digestion, and storing vitamins and minerals.

The ALT test measures the levels of an enzyme called alanine aminotransferase in your blood. When the liver is damaged or inflamed, it releases this enzyme into the bloodstream. Therefore, the ALT test can indicate if there is any liver damage or disease present.

High levels of ALT may suggest liver conditions like hepatitis (inflammation of the liver), cirrhosis (scarring of the liver), or fatty liver disease. It can also be a sign of certain medications or alcohol abuse affecting the liver.

Detecting abnormal ALT levels can help diagnose liver problems early on, allowing for timely treatment and prevention of further damage.

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Albumin is a test that measures the level of a protein called albumin in your blood. Albumin is an important protein that helps carry various substances, such as hormones, vitamins, and medications, throughout your body. This test is commonly used to assess the health of your liver and kidneys.

When your liver or kidneys are not functioning properly, the level of albumin in your blood may decrease. Low levels of albumin can indicate liver disease, kidney disease, malnutrition, or inflammation in the body. It can also be a sign of a chronic condition, such as diabetes or heart failure.

Measuring the albumin level can give valuable insights into your overall health and identify any underlying conditions that may need further evaluation or treatment. This test is usually performed as part of a routine check-up or if you are experiencing symptoms like swelling, fatigue, or unexplained weight loss.

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The Alkaline Phosphatase test is a blood test that measures the levels of an enzyme called alkaline phosphatase in your body. This enzyme is found in various tissues, such as the liver, bones, and intestines.

The test is usually ordered to help diagnose and monitor certain health conditions. For example, it can help detect liver or bone diseases, such as hepatitis or osteoporosis. It can also be used to check the effectiveness of treatment for these conditions.

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 This test measures the activity of aspartate transaminase (AST), an enzyme found primarily in the liver, heart, and skeletal muscle, to help diagnose and monitor liver damage or disease, heart injury, and muscle disorders.

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The Gamma GT test is a blood test that measures the levels of an enzyme called Gamma Glutamyl Transferase (GGT) in your body. This test is commonly used to check the health of your liver and to detect any potential liver damage or disease.

The liver is an important organ that helps filter out toxins and waste from your body. GGT is an enzyme that is mainly found in the liver, but it is also present in other organs like the pancreas and kidneys. When the liver is damaged or not functioning properly, the levels of GGT in the blood can increase.

By measuring the levels of GGT, doctors can get an idea of how well your liver is working. High levels of GGT may indicate liver problems such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, or alcohol abuse. It can also be a sign of other health conditions like diabetes or heart disease.

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The Globulin test is a blood test that measures the levels of a specific type of protein called globulin in your body. Globulins are an important part of your immune system and help fight off infections and diseases. This test is usually done to check if your immune system is functioning properly and to diagnose certain medical conditions.

High levels of globulin may indicate an infection, chronic inflammation, or an autoimmune disorder. On the other hand, low levels of globulin may suggest a liver or kidney disease, malnutrition, or a problem with your immune system.

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The Bilirubin (Total) test is a blood test that measures the level of a substance called bilirubin in your body. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment that is produced when red blood cells break down. This test is commonly used to check the health of your liver and to diagnose certain liver conditions.

When your liver is working properly, it helps remove bilirubin from your body. However, if your liver is not functioning well, it may not be able to process bilirubin effectively, leading to an increase in its levels. High levels of bilirubin can cause a yellowing of the skin and eyes, known as jaundice.

By measuring the amount of bilirubin in your blood, this test can help determine if your liver is functioning properly or if there may be an underlying liver problem.

Your doctor may order this test if you are experiencing symptoms such as yellowing of the skin, fatigue, or abdominal pain, or if they suspect a liver disorder.

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Total Protein is the total amount of two proteins found in the serum of the blood, these are albumin and globulin. Albumin is needed to keep fluid in the bloodstream whereas globulin is an essential part of the immune system. Total protein tests are used as an indicator to there being a problem with albumin or globulin levels.
 

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Amylase is a laboratory test that measures the levels of amylase enzyme in the blood or urine. Amylase is an enzyme produced by the pancreas and salivary glands, and it helps in the digestion of carbohydrates.

This test is commonly done to diagnose and monitor conditions related to the pancreas, such as pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas). Elevated levels of amylase in the blood or urine can indicate pancreatic damage or dysfunction. It can also be used to diagnose other conditions like salivary gland disorders, gallbladder disease, or gastrointestinal disorders.

Additionally, amylase levels may be monitored during treatment to assess the effectiveness of therapy or to check for any complications. Overall, this test helps in the diagnosis and management of various pancreatic and digestive system disorders.

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The Lipase test is a blood test that measures the level of lipase, an enzyme produced by the pancreas. This test is used to help diagnose and monitor conditions that affect the pancreas, such as pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer, or a blocked pancreatic duct.

When the pancreas is inflamed or damaged, it can release higher levels of lipase into the bloodstream. By measuring the amount of lipase in the blood, doctors can assess the health of the pancreas and determine if there is any dysfunction.

The Lipase test is often ordered when a person experiences symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and fever, which could be indicative of pancreatic issues. It can also be used to monitor the effectiveness of treatment for pancreatic conditions and to check for any recurrence of pancreatitis. 

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Basophils are one of the several kinds of white blood cells you have in your body. Basophils are a part of your immune system and are created inside of your bone marrow.

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Eosinophils are a kind of white blood cell that helps fight disease. Eosinophils do two important things in your immune system: curb infections and boost inflammation, which can help you fight off a disease.
 

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A haematocrit test is a common blood test that measures the proportion of red blood cells (RBCs) in your blood. Haematocrit is expressed as a percentage or ratio of the volume of red blood cells to the total volume of blood. 

This test is a key component of a complete blood count (CBC) and provides valuable information about your overall health and can help diagnose various conditions.

Purpose and Significance of Haematocrit Test:

1. Assessing Blood Volume and Concentration: Haematocrit levels indicate the concentration of red blood cells in the blood, which is crucial for delivering oxygen throughout the body.
2. Diagnosing Anaemia: Low haematocrit values can suggest anaemia, a condition where you don't have enough healthy red blood cells to carry adequate oxygen to your body's tissues. There are many types of anaemia, and hematocrit can help in identifying them.
3. Identifying Polycythaemia: High haematocrit levels may indicate polycythemia, a condition where the body produces too many red blood cells, which can thicken the blood and increase the risk of clotting.
4. Monitoring Medical Conditions: Haematocrit is used to monitor conditions that affect blood volume or red blood cell levels, including chronic kidney disease, heart disease, and bone marrow disorders.
5. Guiding Treatment: The test helps in managing conditions that affect hydration levels and red blood cell count. It also helps evaluate the effectiveness of treatments for conditions like anemia and polycythemia.
6. Checking Overall Health: A haematocrit test is often part of routine health examinations to provide a general status check on a person’s health.

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Haemoglobin is a test that measures the amount of a protein called haemoglobin in your blood. 

Haemoglobin is a vital component of red blood cells and is responsible for carrying oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body.

This test is commonly used to check for conditions like anaemia, which is a condition where there is a low level of haemoglobin in the blood.

By measuring the haemoglobin level, you can determine if you have enough red blood cells to carry oxygen effectively. 

If your haemoglobin level is too low, it may indicate that you have anaemia, which can cause symptoms like fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath. On the other hand, if your haemoglobin level is too high, it may suggest a condition called polycythaemia, which can lead to thickening of the blood and increase the risk of blood clots.

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Lymphocytes are a type of white blood cell. They’re an important part of your immune system. 
 

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Mean Cell Haemoglobin Concentration (MCHC) is a blood test measurement that shows the average concentration of haemoglobin in your red blood cells. Haemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout your body. MCHC helps determine how much haemoglobin each red blood cell has relative to its size. If the MCHC is low, it suggests the cells don't have enough haemoglobin, which can indicate types of anaemia. 

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The Mean Cell Haemoglobin (MCH) is a blood test that measures the average amount of haemoglobin in your red blood cells. Haemoglobin is the protein in your blood that carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of your body. Checking the MCH helps doctors see if you have different types of anaemia or other health issues. For example, a low MCH could mean you have iron deficiency anaemia, while a high MCH might indicate vitamin B12 deficiency. Understanding these levels helps in diagnosing conditions and deciding on the best treatment plan.

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The Mean Cell Volume (MCV) test is a blood test that measures the average size of your red blood cells. Red blood cells carry oxygen throughout your body, so it's important that they are the right size to do their job effectively.

If your MCV is too high, it means your red blood cells are larger than normal, which can be a sign of certain types of anaemia or other health conditions. If your MCV is too low, it means your red blood cells are smaller than normal, which can also be a sign of anaemia or other health issues.

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Mean Platelet Volume (MPV) tests show the mean number of platelets you have in your blood.

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Monocytes are a type of white blood cell in your immune system. Monocytes turn into macrophage or dendritic cells when an invading germ or bacteria enters your body. The cells either kill the invader or alert other blood cells to help destroy it and prevent infection.

High monocyte counts can indicate infections, chronic inflammation, autoimmune disorders, or blood disorders like leukemia. Low counts might suggest a problem with bone marrow or the effect of certain treatments. 

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Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell. They make up the biggest number of all kinds of white blood cells and they play a crucial role in fighting infections by attacking bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens.They kill and digest these pathogens to help your body fight infections and heal wounds. 

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Platelets are tiny blood cells that help your body form clots to stop bleeding. If you cut yourself, it’s the platelets that rush to the site of the injury and help seal the wound by forming a blood clot.

This test is crucial because having either too many or too few platelets can indicate a range of health issues. 

Low platelet counts (thrombocytopenia) can lead to excessive bleeding and bruising, showing that even minor injuries might cause serious bleeding. 

On the other hand, too many platelets (thrombocytosis) can lead to blood clots in your veins or arteries, which can cause strokes or heart attacks.

Doctors order platelet tests to monitor general health, diagnose diseases, or check the effectiveness of some treatments. It’s commonly performed if you have unexplained bruising or bleeding, are showing signs of an infection, or as part of routine health screenings.

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A Red Cell Count measures the number of red blood cells (RBCs) in a sample of your blood. 

Red blood cells are vital for health because they carry oxygen from your lungs to all parts of your body and bring carbon dioxide back to your lungs to be exhaled. This test diagnose and manage conditions like anaemia (low RBC count), which can cause fatigue and weakness, or polycythemia (high RBC count), which can lead to blood clots and other serious conditions. 

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Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW) shows the variation in size of your red blood cells (RBCs). 

If red blood cells vary widely in size, RDW values will be higher. This can indicate certain types of anaemia or other health conditions like heart disease. It’s particularly useful in distinguishing between different types of anaemia and understanding the underlying causes.

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White Cell Count measures the number of white cells in your blood.

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The Cholesterol (Total) test is a blood test that measures the amount of cholesterol in your body. Cholesterol is a waxy substance that is found in your blood and is important for the normal functioning of your body. However, having too much cholesterol can be harmful to your health.

This test is used to assess your risk of developing heart disease. High levels of cholesterol can lead to the build-up of plaque in your arteries, which can restrict blood flow and increase your chances of having a heart attack or stroke. By measuring your total cholesterol levels, this test helps determine if you have a higher risk of developing these conditions.
 

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The HDL Percentage test measures the amount of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol in your blood. HDL cholesterol is often referred to as the "good" cholesterol because it helps remove the "bad" cholesterol from your arteries, reducing the risk of heart disease.

This test is important because having a high level of HDL cholesterol is associated with a lower risk of heart disease, while a low level is linked to an increased risk. By measuring the percentage of HDL cholesterol in your blood, this test provides valuable information about your heart health. It helps  assess your risk of developing heart disease and determine if any lifestyle changes or medications are needed to improve your cholesterol levels.

Maintaining a healthy HDL percentage is crucial for maintaining a healthy heart and reducing the risk of heart-related problems.

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The HDL Cholesterol test measures the level of a specific type of cholesterol in your blood called high-density lipoprotein (HDL). HDL cholesterol is often referred to as "good" cholesterol because it helps remove harmful cholesterol from your arteries, reducing the risk of heart disease.

This test is important because having high levels of HDL cholesterol is beneficial for your heart health. It acts like a scavenger, picking up excess cholesterol from your blood vessels and taking it back to the liver for processing and removal. This helps prevent the buildup of plaque in your arteries, which can lead to blockages and increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

By measuring your HDL cholesterol levels, this test can provide valuable information about your heart health and help identify any potential risks. If your HDL cholesterol levels are low, it may indicate an increased risk of heart disease. On the other hand, if your HDL cholesterol levels are high, it suggests a lower risk of heart problems.

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The Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL) test is a blood test that measures the amount of a specific type of cholesterol in your body. Cholesterol is a waxy substance that is produced by your liver and is also found in certain foods. While some cholesterol is necessary for our bodies to function properly, too much LDL cholesterol can be harmful.

LDL cholesterol is often referred to as "bad" cholesterol because it can build up in the walls of your arteries, leading to a condition called atherosclerosis. This can restrict blood flow and increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.

The LDL test helps to assess your risk of developing these conditions by measuring the amount of LDL cholesterol in your blood. It is usually done as part of a lipid profile, which also includes measurements of other types of cholesterol.

Based on the results of the LDL test, your healthcare provider can determine if you have high levels of LDL cholesterol and if any lifestyle changes or medications are needed to lower it. It is important to maintain healthy levels of LDL cholesterol to reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.

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Triglyceride is a type of blood test that measures the amount of fat in your blood. It is an important test because it helps doctors assess your risk for heart disease. Triglycerides are a type of fat that your body uses for energy. However, having high levels of triglycerides can be harmful to your health.

This test is usually done as part of a cholesterol panel, which also includes measuring your levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol and HDL (good) cholesterol. High triglyceride levels can be caused by factors such as a diet high in unhealthy fats, being overweight, smoking, and not getting enough exercise.

If your triglyceride levels are too high, it can increase your risk of developing heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular problems. By measuring your triglyceride levels, you can determine if you need to make lifestyle changes or start medication to lower your risk of heart disease.

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Creatinine is a test that measures the level of a waste product called creatinine in your blood. Creatinine is produced by your muscles and is normally filtered out of your body by your kidneys. This test helps to evaluate how well your kidneys are functioning.

When your kidneys are healthy, they efficiently remove creatinine from your blood. However, if your kidneys are not working properly, the level of creatinine in your blood can increase. High levels of creatinine may indicate kidney damage or disease.

This test is often ordered if you have symptoms of kidney problems, such as frequent urination, swelling in your legs or feet, or changes in urine color. It is also used to monitor the progression of kidney disease and to adjust medication dosages for certain conditions.

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Sodium is an essential mineral that helps maintain the balance of fluids in your body and plays a crucial role in nerve and muscle function. This test is commonly ordered to evaluate the overall health of your body and to diagnose certain medical conditions.

If your sodium levels are too high, it may suggest dehydration, kidney problems, or certain medications. On the other hand, low sodium levels can be a sign of excessive fluid intake, hormonal imbalances, or underlying health conditions like kidney or liver disease.

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Urea is a waste product that is produced when your body breaks down proteins. This test is commonly used to check how well your kidneys are functioning.

When your kidneys are healthy, they filter out urea and other waste products from your blood, which are then excreted in your urine. However, if your kidneys are not working properly, urea can build up in your blood.

By measuring the level of urea in your blood, you can get an idea of how well your kidneys are working.

This test can help diagnose kidney problems, such as kidney disease or damage. It can also be used to monitor the progress of kidney disease and determine the effectiveness of treatment.
 

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The eGFR test, or estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate test, is a crucial laboratory measurement used to assess kidney function. It estimates how well the kidneys are filtering blood and removing waste products. Here's a deeper look into what eGFR signifies and why it is so important:

What is eGFR?

eGFR is calculated from the blood level of creatinine along with other variables such as age, sex, and body size. Creatinine is a waste product produced by muscle metabolism and usually filtered out of the blood by the kidneys.

Why is the eGFR Test Used?

1. Detecting Kidney Disease: eGFR is primarily used to screen for and monitor kidney disease. Healthy kidneys effectively filter blood, but damaged kidneys may not perform as well, leading to a lower eGFR.
2. Monitoring Kidney Disease Progression: For patients already diagnosed with kidney disease, regular eGFR tests help monitor the disease's progression. Changes in eGFR over time can indicate whether the kidney function is stable, improving, or worsening.
3. Guiding Treatment: Kidney function, as measured by eGFR, influences decisions about medication dosages and other treatments. Some drugs are eliminated from the body through the kidneys, and reduced kidney function can affect how drugs are dosed and administered.
4. Evaluating Risk: A low eGFR indicates poor kidney function and can be associated with an increased risk of other complications like cardiovascular disease and high blood pressure.

How is eGFR Calculated?

The eGFR is typically calculated using the creatinine level along with formulas such as the MDRD (Modification of Diet in Renal Disease) study equation or the CKD-EPI (Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration) equation. These formulas adjust for factors like age, sex, race, and body size to provide a more accurate assessment of kidney function.

Interpretation of eGFR Results

• Normal Range: Generally, a normal eGFR value is above 90 mL/min/1.73m², indicating good kidney function.
• Mild to Moderate Decrease: An eGFR between 60 and 89 might suggest some kidney damage, particularly if other signs of kidney disease are present.
• Moderate to Severe Decrease: An eGFR below 60 may indicate chronic kidney disease.
• Severe Decrease: An eGFR below 30 suggests more serious kidney disease, potentially nearing kidney failure.
• Kidney Failure: An eGFR less than 15 typically indicates kidney failure, necessitating dialysis or transplantation for continued survival.

Regular monitoring of eGFR is essential for patients with known risk factors for kidney disease, such as diabetes and hypertension.

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The Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) test measures the level of TSH in your body. TSH is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that helps regulate the thyroid gland, which is responsible for controlling your metabolism.

This test is used to diagnose thyroid problems, such as hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid) or hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid).

Symptoms of thyroid problems can include fatigue, weight gain or loss, hair loss, and changes in mood or energy levels.

If your TSH levels are too high or too low, it can indicate a problem with your thyroid gland.

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The HbA1c test is a blood test that measures the average amount of sugar in your blood over the past 2-3 months.

It is used to diagnose and monitor diabetes, a condition where your body has trouble regulating blood sugar levels.

The test is important because high blood sugar levels can damage your organs over time, leading to serious health problems

If your HbA1c level is high then it confirms that you have diabetes mellitus. It is very useful for screening people in general to see if they have Type 2 diabetes as it is often difficult to diagnose this type of diabetes from symptoms alone.

Checking HbA1c levels regularly if you already know you have diabetes is essential too, as it is the best way to check if you are managing your blood sugar levels effectively and therefore reducing the chances of the serious medical complications that can occur if high blood sugar levels are not controlled.

By measuring your HbA1c levels, your doctor can adjust your treatment plan if necessary.

It is recommended that people with diabetes get this test done at least twice a year to ensure their blood sugar levels are within a healthy range.

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Iron is an essential mineral that helps your body produce red blood cells and carry oxygen throughout your body. This test is commonly used to check for iron deficiency or iron overload.

If your iron levels are too low, it means you may not have enough iron to make sufficient red blood cells, which can lead to a condition called iron deficiency anaemia. Symptoms of iron deficiency anaemia include fatigue, weakness, pale skin, and shortness of breath.

On the other hand, if your iron levels are too high, it may indicate a condition called hemochromatosis, where your body absorbs too much iron from the food you eat. This can lead to organ damage over time.

By measuring your iron levels, this test helps diagnose and monitor these conditions. Depending on the results, your doctor may recommend dietary changes, iron supplements, or further testing to determine the underlying cause of your iron levels.

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The Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC) test is a blood test that measures the amount of iron that can be carried by proteins in your blood. It helps to determine how well your body can transport and store iron. Iron is an essential mineral that is needed for the production of red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout your body.

The TIBC test is often ordered to evaluate iron levels and diagnose conditions such as iron deficiency anaemia or iron overload. Iron deficiency anaemia occurs when there is not enough iron in your body to produce an adequate amount of healthy red blood cells. On the other hand, iron overload can happen when there is too much iron in your body, which can lead to organ damage.

By measuring the TIBC, you can assess your body's ability to bind and transport iron. This information helps determine if you have enough iron in your body or if there is an imbalance that needs to be addressed.

The results of the TIBC test, along with other blood tests, can guide in diagnosing and treating iron-related conditions.

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The Transferrin Saturation test measures the amount of iron in your blood and how well it is being transported to your organs and tissues. This test is used to diagnose conditions such as iron deficiency anemia or hemochromatosis, which are related to the levels of iron in your body.

Iron is an essential mineral that helps your body make red blood cells and carry oxygen to all parts of your body. If your transferrin saturation levels are too low, it may indicate that you are not getting enough iron in your diet or that your body is not absorbing it properly. On the other hand, if your levels are too high, it could be a sign of iron overload, which can lead to organ damage.

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Vitamin B12 is a vitamin which is necessary for the formation of red blood cells, tissue and cellular repairs, and nerve health. 

It is primarily found in animal products such as meat, fish, milk and eggs, so it is particularly relevant to anyone on a plant based diet.

This test measures the total amount of vitamin B12 in the blood. It may contribute to the diagnosis of vitamin B12 deficiency, pernicious anemia, malabsorption disorders, and certain gastrointestinal conditions. 

In males and females, low levels of vitamin B12 can lead to anaemia, fatigue, weakness, and neurological symptoms. 

In females, low levels of vitamin B12 can also lead to complications during pregnancy.

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Vitamin D is an essential nutrient that helps your body absorb calcium and maintain strong bones.

This test is important because vitamin D deficiency can lead to weak bones, muscle weakness, and increased risk of fractures. It can also affect your immune system, making you more susceptible to infections. 

Vitamin D comes from two sources; it can be ingested from foods and supplements, or be produced in the skin once it is exposed to sunlight.

Vitamin D tests are used to identify vitamin D deficiency and to monitor disease that interfere with fat absorption like Crohn’s disease.
 

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