Introduction

Welcome back! We will continue today with understanding your health begins with understanding your lab tests. Routine tests like the CMP-14 (Comprehensive Metabolic Panel) and CBC (Complete Blood Count) are common tools to assess your health. Today, we’ll review the valuable information these tests provide and why they are essential in medical diagnostics.

Review of Valuable Information on CMP-14 and CBC

A brief recap of the valuable information provided by routine tests (CMP-14 and CBC)

Fasting Glucose (CMP-14) The fasting glucose level measured in the CMP-14 is crucial for assessing your blood sugar levels. Elevated fasting glucose can indicate diabetes or insulin resistance, providing an early warning to take preventive measures.

Kidney Function and Dehydration (CMP-14) Markers like BUN (Blood Urea Nitrogen) and Creatinine in the CMP-14 give insight into kidney function and hydration status. High levels can indicate dehydration or kidney dysfunction, prompting further investigation or intervention.

Liver Enzymes (CMP-14) The liver enzymes ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase), AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase), and ALP (Alkaline Phosphatase) are critical for evaluating liver health and gallbladder inflammation. Elevated levels can signal liver damage, inflammation, or disease, providing timely medical attention.

Anemia (CBC) The CBC measures Hemoglobin, Hematocrit, and RBC (Red Blood Cell Count), which are essential for diagnosing anemia. Identifying the type and cause of anemia is vital for appropriate treatment, as anemia can significantly impact your energy and overall health.

Immune Activation (CBC) The WBC (White Blood Cell Count) and differential count in the CBC help detect infections and immune system activity. Elevated WBC can indicate an ongoing infection or inflammation, guiding further diagnostic steps.

Food Sensitivities and Parasitic Infection Possibility (CBC) Eosinophils, a type of white blood cell measured in the CBC, can be elevated in food sensitivities and parasitic infections. Understanding eosinophil counts can help diagnose allergic reactions or parasitic infections that may go unnoticed.

B-Vitamin Levels (CBC) The MCV (Mean Corpuscular Volume) in the CBC provides information about the size of your red blood cells. Elevated MCV can indicate deficiencies in B-vitamins like Vitamin B12 or Folate, these are essential for proper cell function and energy levels.

CMP-14 and CBC Wrap-Up

Routine lab tests like the CMP-14 and CBC offer valuable insights into your health, from blood sugar and kidney function to liver health and immune activity. However, they also have limitations, especially in detecting specific nutritional deficiencies that can impact your overall well-being.

• Transition to discussing the limitations of these tests.
• Introduction to the importance of comprehensive nutritional testing.

Discussing the Limitations of CMP-14 and CBC Tests

As we reviewed, routine lab tests like the CMP-14 and CBC provide valuable information about your general health. However, they have significant limitations when it comes to detecting nutritional deficiencies.

• CMP-14 (Comprehensive Metabolic Panel): Evaluates metabolic function, electrolyte balance, liver and kidney health. It’s great for identifying acute conditions and general health considerations. Giving insights of where to start to look in the body as a cause of symptoms.
• CBC (Complete Blood Count): Measures various components of your blood, such as red and white blood cells, hemoglobin, and hematocrit. It helps diagnose conditions like anemia and infections but doesn’t provide detailed insights into nutritional health.

What’s Missing? The Overlooked Nutritional Information

General Overview of What CMP-14 and CBC Tests Don’t Cover in Terms of Nutritional Health

Routine lab tests like the Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP-14) and Complete Blood Count (CBC) are essential tools in medical diagnostics. They provide valuable insights into your health, such as kidney and liver function, digestion, blood sugar levels, and general overall blood health. However, while these tests are useful, they have some nutritional limitations and greater limitations if not interpreted by a nutritional professional. Here’s a closer look at what CMP-14 and CBC tests don’t cover in terms of nutritional health and why these matters.

1. Specific Nutritional Deficiencies

Routine tests like CMP-14 and CBC do not measure specific vitamins and minerals that are crucial for your overall well-being. Key nutritional markers that are often overlooked include:

• Vitamin D: Essential for bone health, immune function, and mood regulation. Vitamin D deficiency can lead to weakened bones, a compromised immune system, and mood disorders such as depression.
• Vitamin B12: Important for red blood cell formation, neurological function, and DNA synthesis. Deficiency can cause anemia, fatigue, and neurological issues.
• Omega Fatty Acid Balance: Beneficial for brain function, reducing inflammation, and heart health. Deficiency can lead to cognitive decline, increased inflammation, and a higher risk of cardiovascular disease.

2. Inflammatory Markers

Inflammation is a key factor in many chronic diseases, yet routine tests like the CMP-14 and CBC do not typically include detailed inflammatory markers such as:

• CRP (C-Reactive Protein): A general marker of inflammation in the body. An elevated CRP level can indicate chronic inflammation, which is associated with conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders.
• hs-CRP (High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein): A more precise marker that helps assess the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Even slightly elevated levels can signal increased heart disease risk.

3. Comprehensive Lipid Profile

While CMP-14 may include basic cholesterol levels, it does not provide a detailed lipid profile that includes:

• Apolipoproteins (ApoA and ApoB): Apolipoproteins play a critical role in lipid metabolism and cardiovascular health. Measuring these can provide more detailed insights into your heart health.
• Detailed Lipid Profile: Beyond just measuring total cholesterol, LDL, and HDL, a detailed lipid profile includes subtypes of LDL and HDL, particle size, and number, providing a clearer picture of cardiovascular risk.

4. Hormonal Balance

Metabolic, stress, and sex hormones play significant roles in overall health, including metabolic rate, mood, and energy levels. Routine tests do not cover:

• Thyroid Hormones: While CMP-14 includes basic thyroid function, it often does not provide a detailed analysis of thyroid hormones such as T3, T4, and Reverse T3.
• Sex Hormones: Hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone are not measured in routine tests, yet they are vital for energy levels, mood, and weight management, especially in peri and postmenopausal women.

Three Reasons Why This Matters

1.     Greater information is found in these lab tests are interpreted preventively and nutritionally, you may be surprised to find out nutrition classes are rarely offered during medical school curriculum

2.     You don’t feel well but your lab values are normal. The normal lab ranges are outdated. 

3.     Some limitations of CMP-14 and CBC tests in uncovering crucial nutritional information and insights and allowing health issues to go undetected. Symptoms of dietary deficiencies, chronic inflammation, lipid imbalances, and hormonal imbalances can significantly impact your health, leading to fatigue, weight gain, mood disorders, and increased risk of chronic diseases.

Real-Life Impact of Nutritional Deficiencies

Real-Life Example: Transforming Health Through Nutritional Deficiency Identification and Correction

Meet Jane: A Journey from Fatigue and Digestive Issues to Vibrant Health

Jane, a 54-year-old woman, came to my practice experiencing severe fatigue, bloating, and frequent digestive discomfort. She was peri-menopausal and had been struggling with these symptoms for several years. Despite numerous visits to her primary care physician, routine tests like the CMP-14 and CBC showed normal results. Jane was told her health issues were simply a part of aging, and she felt increasingly frustrated and hopeless.

Initial Assessment and Testing

When Jane contacted me, her primary concerns were chronic fatigue, bloating, and irregular bowel movements. After talking with Jane during a free Best Next Step Consultation, I suspected she might be suffering from nutritional deficiencies and malabsorption issues that were not being identified by her doctor's interpretation of her lab tests. We decided to proceed with Reveal, a nutritional interpretation of her labs to find the root cause and better understand her whole-body health. From my nutritional interpretation of labs, she'd already had completed, I was able to identify your body was struggling to digest, absorb, and assimilate the nutrients into her body. Other blood markers would give us the needed information about Jane's symptoms.

Discovering Hidden Deficiencies

The results were revealing. Jane had several significant nutritional deficiencies and markers of poor digestive health:

• Vitamin D: Severely deficient, contributing to her fatigue and low mood.
• Vitamin B12: Low levels, which can cause fatigue, cognitive issues, and digestive problems.
• Magnesium: Below optimal levels, affecting her muscle function and energy levels.
• High CRP Levels: Indicating chronic inflammation.
• Poor Gut Health: Imbalanced protein and calcium in her blood and evidence of malabsorption, explaining her bloating and digestive discomfort.

Personalized Nutritional Plan

Armed with this information, we developed a personalized nutritional plan for Jane, focusing on:

• Supplementation: High-quality supplements to address deficiencies in Vitamin D, B12, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids.
• Dietary Changes: Incorporating nutrient-dense foods rich in the vitamins and minerals she was lacking. We also eliminated foods that contributed to her digestive issues and included probiotics to support gut health.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Recommendations for adequate hydration, and stress management techniques like meditation and yoga.

Remarkable Improvements

Within two weeks of starting her personalized plan, Jane noticed significant improvement. Her energy levels rose, and she experienced less fatigue. The bloating reduced dramatically, and her digestive health improved, with more regular and comfortable bowel movements. Over the following months, Jane’s health continued to improve:

• Enhanced Mood: With adequate Vitamin D and B12 levels, Jane felt more upbeat and less prone to mood swings.
• Reduced Inflammation: Her CRP levels dropped, and she felt less achy and more vibrant.
• Better Digestive Health: Addressing the root causes of Jane’s inflammation and gut health issues led to a significant reduction in bloating and discomfort, with normalized bowel movements.

A New Lease on Life

Jane’s health improvement journey highlights the profound impact that identifying and addressing the nutritional causes of deficiencies can have on overall health. Her story is a testament to the importance of interpreting routine tests and considering comprehensive whole-body nutritional assessments for a complete picture of health.

Jane’s Health Transformation

Jane’s transformation underscores the critical need for personalized nutrition and comprehensive testing. the answers are there, in your bloodwork, when interpreted nutritionally.

If you’re experiencing similar symptoms and have routine lab tests that's a great place to start. Interpreting blood work through a nutritional lens takes education, experience, and skill. If you aren't feeling well and looking for the cause, consider scheduling a free Best Next Step consultation call with me, Dr. Susan Plank. Together, we can uncover the root causes of your health issues and develop a plan to restore your vitality and well-being.

Scientific Evidence for Nutritional Interventions

• Nutritional deficiencies can have far-reaching impacts on your health, often manifesting as fatigue, poor immune function, and chronic diseases. Identifying nutritional dysfunctions and deficiencies can lead to significant improvements in overall health and well-being. Here, we discuss the scientific research and findings that highlight the benefits of correcting nutritional deficiencies.

1. Vitamin D: Immune Function and Chronic Disease Prevention

Vitamin D is crucial for bone health, immune function, and inflammation control. Numerous studies have demonstrated the benefits of correcting Vitamin D deficiencies:

• Immune Function: Research shows that adequate Vitamin D levels are essential for the proper functioning of the immune system. A study published in the British Medical Journal found that Vitamin D supplementation reduced the risk of acute respiratory infections.
• Chronic Disease Prevention: Low Vitamin D have been linked to an increased risk of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. A meta-analysis published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that higher Vitamin D levels were associated with a reduced risk of all-cause mortality.

2. Vitamin B12: Neurological Health and Energy Levels

Vitamin B12 is vital for red blood cell production, neurological function, and DNA synthesis. Correcting deficiencies can lead to significant health improvements:

• Neurological Health: A study published in Neurology found that Vitamin B12 supplementation improved cognitive function in older adults with mild cognitive impairment.
• Energy Levels: Vitamin B12 is essential for energy production. Research indicates that supplementation can alleviate symptoms of fatigue and weakness, particularly in individuals with pernicious anemia or other conditions affecting B12 absorption.

3. Magnesium: Muscle Function and Cardiovascular Health

Magnesium plays a critical role in muscle and nerve function, blood sugar control, and blood pressure regulation:

• Muscle Function: Studies have shown that magnesium supplementation can improve muscle performance and reduce symptoms of muscle cramps and spasms, particularly in athletes and older adults .
• Cardiovascular Health: Magnesium deficiency is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. Research published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that higher magnesium intake was linked to lower blood pressure and a reduced risk of stroke .

4. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Brain Function and Inflammation Reduction

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for brain health, reducing inflammation, and supporting cardiovascular health:

• Brain Function: A study in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that omega-3 supplementation improved cognitive function and reduced symptoms of depression in older adults .
• Inflammation Reduction: Omega-3s have potent anti-inflammatory properties. Research published in the Journal of Lipid Research demonstrated that omega-3 supplementation reduced markers of inflammation in individuals with chronic inflammatory conditions .

5. Inflammatory Markers: CRP and hs-CRP

Inflammation is a key factor in many chronic diseases, and reducing inflammation can have widespread health benefits:

• CRP and Cardiovascular Risk: A study in the New England Journal of Medicine found that lowering CRP levels through lifestyle changes and medication significantly reduced the risk of cardiovascular events .
• hs-CRP and Heart Health: Research indicates that high-sensitivity CRP is a valuable marker for assessing heart disease risk. Lowering hs-CRP levels can improve cardiovascular outcomes, as shown in studies published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology .

6. Lipid Profile and Cardiovascular Health

A comprehensive lipid profile, including apolipoproteins, provides detailed insights into cardiovascular health:

• Apolipoproteins and Heart Disease: Research has shown that measuring ApoA and ApoB levels can provide a more accurate assessment of cardiovascular risk compared to traditional lipid measures alone. A study published in The Lancet found that the ApoB/ApoA-I ratio was a strong predictor of heart attack risk .
• Lipid Management: Improving lipid profiles through dietary changes, exercise, and supplements can significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases, as highlighted in a review article in the Journal of Lipid Research .

Action Steps to Address Nutritional Deficiencies

Taking control of your health begins with understanding there’s more information in your routine blood work than you’ve been led to believe, and addressing nutritional deficiencies will improve to your symptoms and overall wellness. Here’s a guide to help you get started on your journey to optimal health.

How to Get Started with Comprehensive Nutritional Testing

1. Identify Symptoms and Health Concerns
2. Begin by taking note of any persistent symptoms or health issues you’re experiencing. These could include fatigue, digestive problems, mood swings, weight gain, or any other concerns that can be linked to nutritional deficiencies.
3. Talk to Dr. Plank
4. It’s essential to consult with a nutritionally minded healthcare professional who understands the importance of comprehensive nutritional testing. While primary care physicians can provide basic tests, a functional nutritionist can offer more in-depth assessments.
5. Consider Comprehensive Nutritional Testing
6. Micronutrient Testing: Evaluate your levels of essential vitamins and minerals, such as Vitamin D, B12, magnesium, and others.
7. Advanced Lipid Profile: Provides a detailed analysis of your cholesterol and triglyceride levels, including apolipoproteins.
8. Inflammatory Markers: Tests like CRP and hs-CRP measure the levels of inflammation in your body, which can indicate chronic disease risks.
9. Digestive Health Panel: Assesses your gut health, including microbiota balance and possible malabsorption issues.
10. Review Results with a Functional Nutritionist
11. Once you have your test results, review them with a functional nutritionist who can interpret the data and provide actionable insights. They will help you understand how each deficiency impacts your health and what steps you can take to address them.

Importance of Working with a Functional Nutritionist

1. Personalized Care

• Functional nutritionists provide individualized care tailored to your unique needs. They look at the whole person, not just isolated symptoms, ensuring a comprehensive approach to health and wellness.

1. Root Cause Approach

• Instead of merely treating symptoms, functional nutritionists aim to identify and address the root causes of health issues. This approach leads to more sustainable and long-lasting improvements in your health.

1. Expert Guidance

• With specialized training in nutrition and functional medicine, functional nutritionists offer expert guidance on dietary changes, supplements, and lifestyle modifications to correct deficiencies and promote optimal health.

1. Ongoing Support

• Working with a functional nutritionist provides ongoing support and adjustments to your health plan as needed. This ensures that you stay on track and continue to make progress towards your health goals.

Take the First Step: Schedule a Free Best Next Step Consultation Call

Taking the first step towards better health is easier than you think. By scheduling a free Best Next Step consultation call with me, Dr. Susan Plank, you can begin your journey to uncovering and addressing nutritional deficiencies that may be holding you back from feeling your best.

Here’s What to Expect During Your Free Consultation:

1. Comprehensive Review:
2. We’ll discuss your current symptoms, health concerns, and develop a plan for you to get relief.
3. Personalized Assessment:
4. I’ll review your labs and provide a Nutritional wellness Report, an assessment of potential nutritional deficiencies, and I can suggest comprehensive tests that will provide more insights.
5. Actionable Plan:
6. Together, we’ll outline the next steps, including testing, targeted supplementation, dietary changes, and lifestyle modifications tailored to your needs.
7. Ongoing Support:

• I’ll explain how we can work together to achieve your health goals and ensure you receive the support you need throughout your journey.

Conclusion

Don’t let poor nutritional interpretation and nutritional deficiencies hold you back from living your healthiest life. By taking proactive steps to identify and address these deficiencies, you can experience significant improvements in your energy levels, mood, digestive health, and overall well-being.

What’s Next? Taking Action

Understanding the limitations of routine lab tests is the first step toward better health. Comprehensive testing and a personalized approach can fill in the gaps, providing a clearer picture of your overall health and nutritional status.

Ready to take control of your health? Schedule a free Best Next Step consultation call with me, Dr. Susan Plank, and let’s explore how comprehensive testing can benefit you.

Schedule your free consultation now!