Six Blood Tests Your Doctor Probably Isn't Testing

While doctors often perform standard routine blood tests during check-ups, there are several important tests that may not be included in standard panels. Here are six blood tests that your doctor might not routinely order, but could provide valuable insights into your health:

What Are Those Six Blood Tests?

1. Magnesium Levels

Magnesium is a vital mineral essential for various bodily functions, influencing overall health. It is involved in over 300 biochemical reactions, making it crucial for physiological processes. It is key for muscle and nerve function, acting as a natural calcium blocker to aid muscle relaxation and prevent cramps. Low magnesium can lead to insulin resistance, increasing the risk of type 2 diabetes. Maintaining adequate levels is essential for metabolic health. It can regulate blood pressure by promoting blood vessel relaxation, potentially lowering hypertension risk. Incorporating magnesium-rich foods like leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and whole grains is beneficial for overall health.

2. APO-B and Lipoprotein A

ApoB measures the number of atherogenic particles (LDL, vLDL, iLDL), which are more predictive of heart disease risk than just LDL alone, particularly for individuals with abnormal LDL composition in setting of metabolic disease. Lp(a) is a genetically determined risk factor for heart disease, and testing can help identify individuals who may benefit from more aggressive risk management. Ongoing research may lead to new treatments that specifically address the risks associated with Lp(a).

3. Homocysteine Levels

High levels can signal potential issues, particularly for individuals with a family history of cardiovascular conditions. Elevated homocysteine may indicate methylation problems, affecting gene expression, detoxification, and neurotransmitter metabolism. Disrupted methylation can lead to increased inflammation, depression/anxiety, fatigue, and neurological issues. Identifying high levels allows healthcare providers to recommend targeted interventions, including dietary changes, methylated B vitamin supplementation (B6, B12, and folate), and lifestyle modifications to improve methylation which is part of many essential bodily processes, reduce cardiovascular risk, and help with overall health.

4. High Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (CRP)

HS-CRP, or high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, is a substance produced by the liver in response to inflammation. It is considered a crucial biomarker for assessing levels of inflammation within the body. The measurement of HS-CRP is particularly significant because it can detect low levels of inflammation that may not be identified by standard CRP tests. Elevated levels can be present with autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, as well as chronic infections and inflammatory bowel diseases, but also with suboptimal lifestyle choices. In these instances, the body’s immune system is in a state of constant activation, leading to persistent inflammation, which can be detrimental to overall health. Elevated HS-CRP has been closely associated with an increased risk of vascular events, such as heart attacks and strokes. This correlation is thought to arise because inflammation plays a critical role in the development and progression of atherosclerosis, a condition characterized by the buildup of plaque in the arteries.

5. Insulin Levels

Fasting insulin levels can be a window into the status of your metabolic health. When cells become resistant to insulin, the pancreas compensates by producing more of it, leading to elevated fasting insulin levels. Insulin resistance develops gradually and is a significant risk factor for the development of type 2 diabetes. Fasting insulin levels can often reveal metabolic issues before other commonly tested markers do, such as hemoglobin A1c (A1c) or fasting glucose. When fasting insulin levels are elevated, it indicates that the body is working harder to manage blood sugar levels, which can lead to obesity, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic syndrome.

6. Thyroid Antibodies

These can help detect Hashimoto's Thyroiditis, which can lead to hypothyroidism and may not be detected through standard thyroid function tests alone, and Graves' Disease, an autoimmune disorder that causes hyperthyroidism and is associated with specific antibodies. Knowing your thyroid antibody status can lead to earlier diagnosis and intervention, helping to prevent complications associated with untreated thyroid disorders. Regular testing of thyroid antibodies can also monitor the progression of autoimmune thyroid diseases and the effectiveness of treatment strategies and lifestyle changes. Additionally, many symptoms of thyroid disorders can be vague or attributed to other conditions; knowing your antibody status can provide clarity and help explain symptoms such as fatigue, weight changes, and mood fluctuations. For those with a family history of autoimmune diseases, testing for thyroid antibodies is particularly important for assessing risk and implementing preventive measures.

Conclusion

While these tests may not be part of routine evaluations, discussing them with your healthcare provider can help you gain a more comprehensive understanding of your health. Remember, it's important to have open conversations with your doctor about your health concerns and the tests that may be appropriate for you.