Plum Wellness

Your thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate growth and energy expenditure. Thyroid disorders are quite common, and many people don’t have any symptoms at all. This thyroid test screens for the thyroid hormones that play a key role in regulating the body’s metabolism.

In addition to screening for the thyroid hormones that play a key role in regulating metabolism, this advanced thyroid function test detects and measures the quantity of specific thyroid autoantibodies to determine whether autoimmune disease may be impacting thyroid function.

MTHFR testing is a simple test that can identify genetic variations in the MTHFR gene. Two common variations in the MTHFR gene are known as C677T and A1298C. The C677T variation results in a reduction in MTHFR enzyme activity, leading to higher levels of homocysteine in the body. The A1298C variation is less well understood but may also result in reduced enzyme activity.

People with coeliac disease who eat gluten have higher than normal levels of tissue transglutaminase antibodies in their blood. These antibodies are produced by the immune system because it views gluten - the proteins found in wheat, rye and barley - as a threat. This test is positive in about 98% of patients with coeliac disease who are on a gluten-containing diet. Note that a negative result does not necessarily exclude coeliac disease, and if you are symptomatic you may require further testing. A biopsy of the small intestine is the only way to formally diagnose coeliac disease.

This simple iron test measures how much iron you have in your blood, as well as the amount of iron you have stored in your body. Iron levels are relevant to energy, blood cell health and overall wellbeing.

The full blood count measures red cells, white cells and platelets — foundational markers included in most health assessments. It is actually a group of tests that examine different parts of the blood. Results from the following tests provide the broadest picture of your health.

Lipids and cholesterol are fat-like substances in your blood. Some are necessary for good health, but when you have a high level of cholesterol in your blood, a lot of it ends up being deposited in the walls of your arteries and other vital organs. Lifestyle choices including diet, exercise and alcohol intake can all influence cholesterol levels and your risk of developing heart disease.

Insulin resistance can lead to difficulty losing weight, distinct abdominal fat, fatigue, bloating and sugar cravings. Identifying insulin resistance early and committing to lifestyle changes can ultimately help the progression to diabetes.

Vitamin B12 and folate are essential for healthy methylation, a process your body uses for detoxification, energy, and gene regulation. Low B12 can lead to a buildup of homocysteine, which may affect heart, brain, and overall cellular health.

Vitamin D is essential for bone strength as it helps the intestines absorb calcium. Calcium and vitamin D play a critical role in developing and maintaining your overall bone health, and when you don’t get enough you increase your risk of developing osteoporosis and the incidence of stress fractures.