I'm excited to share insights on essential lab tests for those following a plant-based diet. In this episode, I discuss the importance of various tests and what they reveal about your health.
Key Lab Tests to Monitor
Complete Blood Count (CBC):
White Blood Cells: Low levels can indicate low inflammation, common in strict whole food plant-based diets.
Red Blood Cells: Size variations can indicate deficiencies (small for iron, large for B12).
Platelets: Important for clotting; levels can vary with inflammation.
Comprehensive Metabolic Panel:
Fasting Blood Sugar: Checks glucose levels.
Kidney and Liver Function: Important for those with a history of related diseases.
Electrolytes: Includes sodium and potassium.
Iron and Ferritin:
Iron: Essential for hemoglobin and overall health.
Ferritin: Indicates iron storage; low levels can cause fatigue and other issues.
Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH):
Important for thyroid health, especially for those on a strict plant-based diet that may lack iodine.
Lipid Panels:
Cholesterol and Triglycerides: Should improve on a whole food plant-based diet. High levels may indicate the need to reduce processed foods.
Vitamin D:
Essential for bone health and immunity. Many need supplementation, especially in winter.
Vitamin B12:
Non-negotiable supplement for plant-based eaters. Check B12, homocysteine, and methylmalonic acid levels to ensure proper absorption.
24-Hour Urine Iodine:
Important for those on a very strict diet without iodine sources.
To work with me: https://www.drmarbas.com/
A Big Thank You To Our Sponsors:
If you want to work with the best Whole Foods plant-based body recomposition coach, I highly recommend checking out what www.fitvegancoaching.com offers. I did their program and was able to lose 7% of body fat, build lean muscle, and improve my running time. As a loyal subscriber, you get $250 savings on their coaching services.
To learn plant-based cooking and get your medical questions answered, join The Healing Kitchen, taught by Brittany Jaroudi and me! Click here to learn more: https://www.drmarbas.com/the-healing-kitchen
Key Lab Tests to Monitor
Complete Blood Count (CBC):
White Blood Cells: Low levels can indicate low inflammation, common in strict whole food plant-based diets.
Red Blood Cells: Size variations can indicate deficiencies (small for iron, large for B12).
Platelets: Important for clotting; levels can vary with inflammation.
Comprehensive Metabolic Panel:
Fasting Blood Sugar: Checks glucose levels.
Kidney and Liver Function: Important for those with a history of related diseases.
Electrolytes: Includes sodium and potassium.
Iron and Ferritin:
Iron: Essential for hemoglobin and overall health.
Ferritin: Indicates iron storage; low levels can cause fatigue and other issues.
Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH):
Important for thyroid health, especially for those on a strict plant-based diet that may lack iodine.
Lipid Panels:
Cholesterol and Triglycerides: Should improve on a whole food plant-based diet. High levels may indicate the need to reduce processed foods.
Vitamin D:
Essential for bone health and immunity. Many need supplementation, especially in winter.
Vitamin B12:
Non-negotiable supplement for plant-based eaters. Check B12, homocysteine, and methylmalonic acid levels to ensure proper absorption.
24-Hour Urine Iodine:
Important for those on a very strict diet without iodine sources.
To work with me: https://www.drmarbas.com/
A Big Thank You To Our Sponsors:
If you want to work with the best Whole Foods plant-based body recomposition coach, I highly recommend checking out what www.fitvegancoaching.com offers. I did their program and was able to lose 7% of body fat, build lean muscle, and improve my running time. As a loyal subscriber, you get $250 savings on their coaching services.
To learn plant-based cooking and get your medical questions answered, join The Healing Kitchen, taught by Brittany Jaroudi and me! Click here to learn more: https://www.drmarbas.com/the-healing-kitchen
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