This comprehensive test gives you a thorough understanding of your current wellness, as well as insights into your risk of conditions that could impact your future health. It checks 58 biomarkers, including health markers with proven links to longevity such as lipoprotein(a), your triglyceride-to-HDL ratio, and an apolipoprotein profile. Alongside your cholesterol levels, these results give you more insights into your risk of cardiometabolic disease. This advanced test also covers liver and kidney health, nutrition, hormones, thyroid function, and more. You’ll get detailed insights and may spot areas of your health that you could improve, sometimes with lifestyle changes.

Is it for me?

Are you ready to dive even deeper into your health journey? Our Optimal Health Blood Test gives you a detailed assessment of your overall health, including a fuller picture of your risk of heart disease and diabetes, plus checks for liver and kidney function, thyroid health, nutrition, and much more.

Check biomarkers with proven links to longevity and health span (the number of years lived in good health), such as an apolipoprotein profile and triglyceride-to-HDL ratio, which give insights into your risk of cardiometabolic disease. Your results can help you optimise your long-term health, sometimes with simple lifestyle changes.

This test is not available at The Doctors Laboratory clinic.

Optimal Health Blood Test, from our experts to you.

What can the Optimal Health Blood Test tell me?

Our advanced test is designed to give you detailed insights into your current health as well as exploring your risk of conditions that could affect longevity and health span (the number of years lived in good health, free from chronic disease).
The Optimal Health Blood Test is our most comprehensive test to date, covering 58 biomarkers. It’s our all-in-one health check that covers heart, liver , and kidney health, diabetes risk, nutritional status , immunity, hormone balance, thyroid function , and inflammation levels.
It includes biomarkers with proven links to longevity and health span, including an apolipoprotein panel and the triglyceride-to-HDL ratio. These results give you an even more accurate picture of your cardiovascular and metabolic disease risk, alongside your cholesterol results, and may provide insights into areas of your health that could benefit from lifestyle changes.

What are apo A1 and B?

Apolipoproteins are proteins that bind to fats (lipids) and help transport them in your blood to where they’re needed. There are several types of apolipoproteins, and two important ones are apolipoprotein A1 (ApoA1) and apolipoprotein B (ApoB).

ApoA1 is found in HDL (good) cholesterol. HDL cholesterol helps remove excess cholesterol from the peripheral tissues and blood vessels and carries it to the liver, where it’s recycled or removed from the body.

ApoB is mainly found in LDL cholesterol. LDL cholesterol carries cholesterol to your body’s tissues, but too much of it can lead to plaques forming in the arteries.

Generally, lower ApoA1 and higher ApoB levels are linked to a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, negatively affecting health span and longevity.

What is the triglyceride-to-HDL cholesterol ratio?

The triglyceride-to-HDL cholesterol ratio is a marker of your risk of cardiovascular disease and metabolic syndrome. This marker helps give a better idea of your risk than just looking at individual markers or cholesterol ratios.

Your triglyceride-to-HDL cholesterol ratio gives a measure of the balance of triglycerides (a type of fat the body uses for energy) to HDL (good) cholesterol. A higher ratio can be a warning sign for increased risk of conditions like heart attacks, strokes, and high blood pressure.

The triglyceride-to-HDL cholesterol ratio is also associated with insulin resistance, which is thought to be the main driving force behind metabolic syndrome. A raised ratio is also a risk factor for diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Evidence suggests triglycerides can be lowered by omega-3 fatty acids. If you want to know more about your omega-3 levels, try our Omega-3 and -6 Blood Test.  It includes the Omega-3 Index, which checks your levels of heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, plus your omega-3:6 ratio . 

Autoimmunity

Thyroglobulin Antibodies

This test looks for antibodies to thyroglobulin, a protein which is specific to the thyroid gland. Under normal circumstances it does not enter the bloodstream, but if your thyroid is inflamed or under attack from the body's own immune system, then thyroglobulin can be secreted and antibodies detected. Most cases of thyroid disease are caused by an autoimmune condition where the thyroid gland is attacked by the body's own immune system. This can cause the thyroid gland to produce more thyroid hormone (as in the case of Graves' disease) or to produce less as the cells in the thyroid gland are gradually destroyed (as in the case of Hashimoto's thyroiditis).

Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies

Thyroid peroxidase (TPO) is an enzyme important in the production of thyroid hormones. This test looks for antibodies against TPO which are often raised in cases of autoimmune thyroid conditions and occasionally in healthy individuals.

Cholesterol status

Total Cholesterol

Cholesterol is an essential fat (lipid) in the body. Although it has a bad reputation it has some important functions, including building cell membranes and producing a number of essential hormones including testosterone and oestradiol. Cholesterol is manufactured in the liver and also comes from the food we eat. Although there are a number of different types of cholesterol, the two main components of total cholesterol are HDL (high density lipoprotein) which is protective against heart disease and LDL (low density lipoprotein) which, in high levels, can contribute to cardiovascular disease. Your total cholesterol result on its own is of limited value in understanding your risk of heart disease; high levels of HDL cholesterol can cause a raised total cholesterol result but may actually be protective against heart disease. Equally, you can have a normal total cholesterol level but have low levels of protective HDL cholesterol. The most important factors are how much HDL and LDL cholesterol you have, and what proportion of your total cholesterol is made up of protective HDL cholesterol. We give a detailed breakdown of the components of your total cholesterol in the rest of this cholesterol profile.

LDL Cholesterol

LDL cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein) is a molecule made of lipids and proteins which transports cholesterol, triglycerides and other fats to various tissues throughout the body. Too much LDL cholesterol, commonly called 'bad cholesterol', can cause fatty deposits to accumulate inside artery walls, potentially leading to atherosclerosis and heart disease.

Non - HDL Cholesterol

Your total cholesterol is broken down into 2 main components; HDL (good) cholesterol and LDL (bad). There are more types of harmful cholesterol in your blood than just LDL - these include VLDL (very low-density lipoproteins) and other lipoproteins which are thought to be even more harmful than LDL cholesterol. Non-HDL cholesterol is calculated by subtracting your HDL cholesterol value from your total cholesterol. It therefore includes all the non-protective and potentially harmful cholesterol in your blood, not just LDL. As such, it is considered to be a better marker for cardiovascular risk than total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol. The recommended level of non-HDL cholesterol is below 4 mmol/L.

 HDL Cholesterol

HDL cholesterol (high-density lipoprotein) is a molecule in the body which removes cholesterol from the bloodstream and transports it to the liver where it is broken down and removed from the body in bile. HDL cholesterol is commonly known as 'good cholesterol.

Total Cholesterol : HDL

The cholesterol/HDL ratio is calculated by dividing your total cholesterol value by your HDL cholesterol level. It is used as a measure of cardiovascular risk because it gives a good insight into the proportion of your total cholesterol which is good (i.e. high-density lipoprotein HDL). Heart disease risk tools (such as QRisk) use the cholesterol/HDL ratio to calculate your risk of having a heart attack.

Triglycerides

Triglycerides are a type of fat (lipid) that circulate in the blood. After you eat, your body converts excess calories (whether from fat or carbohydrates) into triglycerides which are then transported to cells to be stored as fat. Your body then releases triglycerides when required for energy.

Apolipoprotein A1

Apolipoprotein A1, or ApoA1, is the main protein found in high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. The higher your Apo1 result, the more HDL cholesterol particles you have. HDL cholesterol helps clear cholesterol from the blood by removing cholesterol from organs and tissues to be broken down by the liver.

A low ApoA1 level, especially with a raised ApoB result, is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. ApoA1, alongside other risk factors, can help to build a picture of your overall cardiovascular risk and likelihood of heart attack and stroke in later years.

Apolipoprotein B

Apolipoprotein B, or ApoB, is the main protein found in lipoproteins such as low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and ultra-low-density lipoproteins (chylomicrons). Each of these lipoproteins contains one ApoB particle. So, your ApoB levels can tell you the number of these lipoproteins in the blood, which is why ApoB is considered a better predictor of heart disease risk than LDL cholesterol measurements.

ApoB plays a crucial role in transporting lipids (fats) around the body, but too much ApoB is linked to conditions like atherosclerosis, heart attacks, and strokes, which can affect your lifespan and your quality of life in later years.

Apo B : Apo A Ratio

Your ApoB:ApoA1 ratio is calculated by dividing your ApoB level by your ApoA1 level. It’s considered a better predictor of cardiovascular risk than your individual apolipoprotein results alone, or other cholesterol ratios such as an LDL:HDL ratio.

A higher ratio is linked to an increased risk of heart attacks, vascular disease, and stroke, all of which can impact not just how long you live, but how many years you spend in good health.

Lipoprotein A

Lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a), is a type of lipoprotein made by the liver. Lp(a) is very similar to LDL cholesterol but is more "sticky" as it also contains a protein called Apo(a). Lp(a) is thought to play an important role in the blood's clotting system, but raised levels are linked to a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, including heart attacks and strokes. Knowing your level can help stratify your risk. The amount of Lp(a) in your blood is determined by your genes and not affected by your age or sex.

Triglycerides : HDL Ratio

Your triglyceride to HDL cholesterol (TG:HDL) ratio, an important heart health marker, is calculated by dividing your triglyceride level by your HDL cholesterol level. An imbalance in these essential fats is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, insulin resistance, and higher blood sugar levels, all of which can significantly impact not just longevity, but the number of years you spend in good health. The TG:HDL ratio therefore helps to build an even more comprehensive picture of your risk alongside other cholesterol markers.

Clotting status

Platelet Count

Platelets or clotting cells are the smallest type of blood cell. They are formed in the bone marrow and are important in blood clotting. When bleeding occurs, the platelets swell, clump together and form a sticky plug (a clot) which helps stop the bleeding.

Diabetes

HbA1c

Haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), also known as glycated haemoglobin, is a longer-term measure of glucose levels in your blood than a simple blood glucose test. Glucose attaches itself to the haemoglobin in your red blood cells, and as your cells live for around 12-16 weeks, it gives us a good indication of the average level of sugar in your blood over a 3-month period.

A raised HbA1c result points to diabetes or an increased risk of developing diabetes, which can have a significant impact on your lifespan and quality of life. Complications of uncontrolled diabetes include heart disease, kidney disease, eye problems, and vascular conditions. It can also contribute to mental health problems. And men with diabetes are three times more likely to have erectile dysfunction. Keeping your HbA1c within a normal range can help you reduce the risk of these conditions.

Gout risk

Uric Acid

Uric acid is a waste product produced from the breakdown of chemical compounds called purines. Purine occurs naturally in the body, but it is also found in the food we eat - and in some foods more than others. In healthy individuals, uric acid is excreted by the kidneys in urine, however, if levels are too high to excrete, or if you have a problem metabolising purine, then uric acid can begin to accumulate and can be deposited as crystals in the bodily tissues. When this occurs in joints it causes the painful condition known as gout.

Hormones

FSH

Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) is produced in the pituitary gland and is important for women in the production of eggs by the ovaries and for men for men in the production of sperm. In the first half of the menstrual cycle in women, FSH stimulates the enlargement of follicles within the ovaries. Each of these follicles will help to increase oestradiol levels. One follicle will become dominant and will be released by the ovary (ovulation), after which follicle stimulating hormone levels drop during the second half of the menstrual cycle. In men, FSH acts on the seminiferous tubules of the testicles where they stimulate immature sperm cells to develop into mature sperm.

LH

Luteinising Hormone (LH) is produced by the pituitary gland and is important for male and female fertility. In women it governs the menstrual cycle, peaking before ovulation. In men it stimulates the production of testosterone.

Oestradiol

Oestradiol is a female steroid hormone, produced in the ovaries of women and to a much lesser extent in the testes of men. It is the strongest of three oestrogens and is responsible for the female reproductive system as well as the growth of breast tissue and bone thickness. In pre-menopausal women, oestradiol levels vary throughout the monthly cycle, peaking at ovulation. In women, oestradiol levels decline with age, culminating with the menopause when the ovaries stop producing eggs. Low oestradiol can cause many symptoms associated with the menopause, including hot flushes, night sweats and mood swings. Low oestradiol can also cause osteoporosis.

Testosterone

Testosterone is a hormone that causes male characteristics. For men, it helps to regulate sex drive and has a role in controlling bone mass, fat distribution, muscle mass, strength and the production of red blood cells and sperm. Testosterone is produced in the testicles of men and, in much smaller amounts, in the ovaries of women. Testosterone levels in men naturally decline after the age of 30, although lower than normal levels can occur at any age and can cause low libido, erectile dysfunction, difficulty in gaining and maintaining muscle mass and lack of energy. Although women have much lower amounts of testosterone than men, it is important for much the same reasons, playing a role in libido, the distribution of muscle and fat and the formation of red blood cells. All laboratories will slightly differ in the reference ranges they apply because they are based on the population they are testing. The normal range is set so that 95% of men will fall into it. For greater consistency, we use the guidance from the British Society for Sexual Medicine (BSSM) which advises that low testosterone can be diagnosed when testosterone is consistently below the reference range, and that levels below 12 nmol/L could also be considered low, especially in men who also report symptoms of low testosterone or who have low levels of free testosterone.

Free Testosterone - Calc

Most testosterone circulating in the blood is bound to proteins, in particular SHBG and albumin; only 2-3 % of testosterone is free and available to cells. This test uses an algorithm to calculate the level of free or unbound testosterone in relation to total testosterone, SHBG and albumin.

Free Androgen Index

The free androgen index (FAI) is a calculation used to determine the amount of testosterone which is free (unbound) in the bloodstream. Most testosterone is bound to proteins sex hormone binding globulin and albumin and is not available to interact with the body's cells. The FAI is a calculation based on the ratio of testosterone and SHBG and is a measure of the amount of testosterone that is available to act on the body's tissues. The free androgen index is used in women to assess the likelihood of polycystic ovarian syndrome. In men, free testosterone gives a better indication of testosterone status.

Inflammation 

Hs - CRP

C-Reactive Protein (CRP) is an inflammation marker used to assess whether there is inflammation in the body - it does not identify where the inflammation is located. High Sensitivity CRP (CRP-hs) is a test used to detect low-level inflammation thought to damage blood vessels which can lead to a heart attack or stroke. When you suffer a serious injury or infection you experience significant inflammation around the site of injury - such as the swelling around a twisted ankle. Any injury like this will cause your CRP-hs to rise.

Iron status

Iron

Iron is a mineral that is essential for life. It is a component of haemoglobin, a protein in our red blood cells that is responsible for transporting oxygen around our body. If we don't have enough iron, our haemoglobin levels fall and we can't get sufficient oxygen to our cells. This can cause symptoms which include fatigue, dizziness, and shortness of breath. Serum iron is a very transient reading and can be influenced by the amount of iron-rich food in your diet in the days before your blood test. For this reason, iron is rarely looked at on its own, and is interpreted alongside other markers in an iron status test.

TIBC

Total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) is a measure of the ability of your body to efficiently carry iron through the blood.

Transferrin Saturation

Transferrin is made in the liver and is the major protein in the blood which binds to iron and transports it round the body. This test measures how much this protein is 'saturated' by iron.

Ferritin

Ferritin is a protein which stores iron in your cells and tissues. Usually, the body incorporates iron into haemoglobin to be transported around the body, but when it has a surplus, it stores the remaining iron in ferritin for later use. Measuring ferritin levels gives us a good indication of the amount of iron stored in your body.

UIBC

Unsaturated iron binding capacity (UIBC) represents the portion of iron binding sites on transferrin that are not occupied by iron. UIBC is often measured along with iron and total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) as a diagnostic tool to determine various iron disorders.

Kidney health

Urea

Urea is a waste product produced by the body when it breaks down proteins in the liver. Once the urea is made, it is transported to the kidneys, which filter it out of the blood and remove it from the body in the form of urine. Measuring the levels of urea in the blood can therefore reflect how well both the liver and the kidneys, are functioning. It is important to note that even if one kidney is severely damaged but the other is functioning perfectly, results may still return as normal.

Creatinine

Creatinine is a chemical waste molecule that is generated from normal muscle metabolism. Measurement of this is an indicator of the levels of other waste products in the body. Creatinine is also an accurate marker of kidney function, and may help in diagnosing kidney disease.

EGFR

The estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) assesses how well the kidneys are working by estimating the amount of blood filtered through the kidneys. The glomeruli are tiny filters in the kidneys responsible for removing waste products. If these filters do not do their job properly, kidney function can be impaired. The eGFR calculation is an estimate of actual glomerular filtration rate, calculated using your age, gender, ethnicity, and serum creatinine levels.

Liver health

Bilirubin

Bilirubin is a product of the breakdown of haemoglobin from red blood cells. It is removed from the body via the liver, stored and concentrated in the gallbladder and secreted into the bowel. It is removed from your body through urine and faeces. Bilirubin causes the yellowish colour you sometimes see in bruises, due to red blood cells breaking down underneath the skin.

ALP

Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is an enzyme found mainly in the liver and bones. Measuring it can indicate ongoing liver, gallbladder or bone disease.

ALT

Alanine transferase (ALT) is an enzyme which is mostly found in the liver, but is also found in smaller amounts in the heart, muscles and the kidneys. If the liver is damaged, ALT is leaked into to bloodstream. As ALT is predominantly found in the liver, it is usually an accurate marker for liver inflammation and can indicate liver damage caused by alcohol, fatty liver, drugs or viruses (hepatitis).

Gamma GT

Gamma GT, also known as gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), is a liver enzyme which is raised in liver and bile duct diseases. It is used in conjunction with ALP to distinguish between bone or liver disease. Gamma GT is also used to diagnose alcohol abuse as it is raised in 75% of long term drinkers.

Proteins

Total Protein

Total Protein represents the sum of the proteins albumin and globulin in your blood. Albumin and globulin have a range of functions including keeping blood within vessels, transporting nutrients and fighting infection. Abnormal levels can indicate malnutrition as well as a liver or kidney disorder.

Albumin

Albumin is a protein which is made mainly in the liver. It helps to exert the osmotic pressure which holds water within the blood. It also helps carry nutrients and medications and other substances through the blood and is important for tissue growth and healing. Albumin also carries hormones around the body, therefore measuring the amount of albumin in the blood can help us calculate how much hormone is available to your tissues.

Globulin

Globulin is an umbrella term for a set of different proteins that the immune system and the liver produce. Certain globulins bind with haemoglobin while others transport metals, such as iron, in the blood. Additionally, there is a certain type of globulin known as an immunoglobulin, (another name for an antibody) which helps to fight infection in the body.

SHBG

SHBG (sex hormone binding globulin) is a protein which transports the sex hormones (testosterone, oestrogen and dihydrotestosterone (DHT)) in the blood.Hormones which are bound to SHBG are inactive which means that they are unavailable to your cells. Measuring the level of SHBG in your blood gives important information about your levels of free or unbound hormones which are biologically active and available for use.

Red blood cells

Haemoglobin

Haemoglobin is a protein in red blood cells which carries oxygen around the body and gives the blood its red colour. This test measures the amount of haemoglobin in the blood and is a good measure of the blood's ability to carry oxygen around the body.

Haematocrit

HCT (haematocrit) measures the amount of space (volume) within the blood that is taken up by red blood cells.

Red Cell Count

Red Blood Cell (RBC) Count analyses the number of red blood cells in the blood. Red blood cells carry oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body, where it can be used to fuel energy processes such as movement and respiration. They also carry carbon dioxide produced from cells back to the lungs so that it can be exhaled.

MCV

MCV (mean corpuscular volume) reflects the average size of your red blood cells. This is important to measure, as it can indicate how much oxygen your cells are likely to be transporting around the body.

MCH

MCH (mean corpuscular haemoglobin) measures the average amount of haemoglobin contained in one of your red blood cells.

MCHC

MCHC (mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration) is the average concentration of haemoglobin in your red blood cells. Haemoglobin is a molecule which allows red blood cells to transport oxygen around the body.

RDW

Red blood cell distribution width (RDW) indicates whether your red blood cells are all the same size, or different sizes or shapes. Normally cells are fairly uniform both in size and in shape, but some blood disorders may cause your red blood cells to form in abnormal sizes. This test measures the difference between the largest and the smallest red blood cell.

Thyroid hormones

TSH

Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) is produced in the pituitary gland in order to regulate the production of thyroid hormones thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) by the thyroid gland. If thyroid hormones in the blood are low, then more TSH is produced to stimulate the thyroid gland to produce more of them. If thyroid hormone levels are high, then the pituitary produces less TSH to slow the production of thyroid hormones. If TSH is too high or too low, it normally signifies that there is a problem with the thyroid gland which is causing it to under or over produce thyroid hormones. Sometimes a disorder of the pituitary gland can also cause abnormal TSH levels.

Free T3

Triiodothyronine (T3) is the more active of the two thyroid hormones produced by the thyroid gland. Most T3 is bound to protein in the blood. Free T3 measures the level of T3 that is free, or unbound to protein, and is available to regulate metabolism.

Free Thyroxine

Thyroxine (T4) is one of two hormones produced by the thyroid gland. It works to speed up the rate of your metabolism. Most T4 is bound to carrier proteins in the blood - it is only the free, or unbound, T4 that is active in the body, which is measured in this test. Free T4 is the less active of the two main thyroid hormones. To have an impact on your cells it needs to convert to the more active T3 when your body needs it.

Vitamins

Folate - Serum

Folate is a B vitamin which acts as a coenzyme in the metabolism of amino acids. It is also vital for the synthesis of purines and pyrimidines which are essential for DNA synthesis and red cell formation. Folate is also especially important during the first trimester of pregnancy so if you are thinking of becoming pregnant it is important to make sure your folate levels are normal.

Vitamin B12 - Active

Vitamin B12 is important for production of red blood cells which carry oxygen around the body. B12 is also involved in metabolism and the nervous system and prolonged lack of vitamin B12 may cause nerve damage. Although Vitamin B12 is almost entirely found in animal-based foods, many vegetarian and vegan products, especially plant milks are now fortified with Vitamin B12.

Vitamin D

Despite its name, vitamin D is actually a hormone that’s produced by your skin when it’s exposed to sunshine. Before your body can use vitamin D produced by sun exposure (known as vitamin D3), it must be converted into another form called 25 hydroxycholecalciferol (25 OH). Vitamin D (25 OH) is the major circulating form of vitamin D, and so your vitamin D (25 OH) level is considered the most accurate indicator of vitamin D supply to your body.

Vitamin D is essential for healthy bones and teeth, as it helps your body absorb calcium. It also plays a role in muscle health, immune function, and mental health.

Low vitamin D symptoms include muscle weakness, mood swings, and fatigue. Many people in the UK have low vitamin D levels, and people with dark skin and people who don’t spend much time outdoors are particularly at risk.

Small amounts of vitamin D can be obtained from food, especially oily fish, eggs, and vitamin-D fortified foods. But if you have a vitamin D deficiency, you’re unlikely to be able to improve your levels by food alone.

White blood cells

 White Cell Count

White Blood Cell (WBC) Count measures the number of white blood cells in the blood. White blood cells are key to your body's immune system. They fight infections and protect your body from foreign invaders such as harmful germs and bacteria. Additionally, they produce many antibodies and memory cells to protect you from further infections with the same germ.

Neutrophils

Neutrophils are the most abundant type of white blood cell in the body and are responsible for helping your body fight infection. When a germ is initially detected by the body, neutrophils are the defence system which go out and attack the germ before any of your other white blood cells. When neutrophils are low you can be more vulnerable to illness and infection.

Lymphocytes

Lymphocytes are a type of white blood cell which fight bacterial and viral infections. They are the subset of white blood cells involved in the more specific response to infections, which can identify and differentiate between different foreign organisms that enter the body. As well as fighting infection, they produce antibodies and memory cells to help to prevent future infections from the same germ. Lymphocytes include T cells, B cells and natural killer cells.

Monocytes

 Monocytes are a type of white blood cell that surround and destroy germs and dead or damaged cells from the blood. The heat and swelling that you feel when a body part is inflamed, for example after a cut on your finger, is caused by the activities of these cells.

Eosinophils

Eosinophils are a type of white blood cell that are responsible for removing parasitic infections and regulating inflammation to mark an infected site. They also play a role in allergy and in asthma.

Basophils

Basophils are a type of white blood cell that protect your body from bacteria and parasites such as ticks. They also play a role in allergic reactions.

How to prepare for your test

Prepare for your Optimal Health Blood Test by following these instructions. Take your sample before 10am. Take this test when any symptoms of short-term illness have settled. Take this test two to five days after the start of your period, ideally on day three. It can be taken any time if you do not have periods. Avoid heavy exercise for 48 hours beforehand. Do not eat or drink anything other than water for 12 hours prior to your test. If you take medication then you are allowed to take it as you would normally. Stay well hydrated before your test. Take your sample at least 24 hours after any vitamin or mineral supplements. Do not take biotin supplements for two days before this test, discuss this with your doctor if it is prescribed. Do not take vitamin B12 for two weeks prior to this test. If your B12 is prescribed ask your doctor whether to stop. Hormonal contraception can affect the results of this test. Taking a break from this and waiting for your periods to restart before your blood test will give more accurate results.

FAQ

Can A Blood Test Determine Life Expectancy?

No, a blood test can’t directly or accurately calculate life expectancy. Lifespan is influenced by many factors and can’t be pinned down by a single blood test result.

However, blood testing can measure things like cholesterol levels, blood sugar control, and organ function, which give clues about your overall health and risk of chronic disease — all of which can impact longevity.

New biomarkers and tests are continuously being developed, helping us make more accurate predictions about health risks, diseases, and their likely impact on life expectancy.

What Are The Blood Markers Of Longevity?

While no blood test can give an accurate prediction of how long you’ll live, they can give a snapshot of your overall health and highlight your risk of diseases that can directly impact longevity.

Biomarkers linked to longevity include lipid markers (such as your ApoB:ApoA1 ratio and triglyceride-to-HDL cholesterol ratio), HbA1c (a measure of blood sugar control), and hs-CRP (a marker of low-grade, chronic inflammation).

Remember, it’s not just about living longer, but your years spent in good health (healthspan). The good news is that many of these markers can be improved by making healthy lifestyle choices.

What Is A Longevity Test?

A longevity test gives you insights into your current health and your potential to live a long and healthy life. It assesses various biomarkers that are linked to ageing, health, and your risk of developing chronic diseases that can impact your lifespan.

A longevity blood test could include blood sugar levels, inflammation, hormones, cholesterol, nutrients, and liver and kidney function. It may provide early warning of potential health issues and help you take action to prevent or effectively manage illness, sometimes with lifestyle changes.

How Do You Test Longevity?

 There’s no single test for longevity as it’s influenced by many different factors, and some aspects of your health are unpredictable. However, it’s possible to use tools and tests to estimate longevity and assess factors that might impact it. These include lifestyle assessments, your medical history, physiological parameters, genetic tests, blood testing, risk calculators, and cognitive and functional assessments. Even social factors can impact long-term health.

A blood test can help assess many aspects of your health that may affect longevity and healthspan, such as liver and kidney function, cardiovascular disease and diabetes risk, and nutritional deficiencies.

What Can Affect How Long You Live?

How long you live is determined by a combination of many different factors including genetics, environment, and lifestyle.

Diet, activity levels, and habits such as smoking, excessive drinking, and drug use can profoundly affect your health and lifespan. But positive lifestyle choices, such as taking regular exercise and eating a healthy diet (like the Mediterranean diet), can reduce your risk of potentially life-limiting conditions such as cardiovascular disease.

Preventative measures like screening and regular blood testing can also help detect health issues before signs and symptoms appear, so you can take early action.

Which Blood Test Is Good For Overall Health?

Ideally, a blood test to assess your overall health would include a full blood count (FBC) that looks for signs of anaemia, infection, and inflammation. And a lipid panel including your cholesterol levels can indicate your risk of cardiovascular disease.

Other important checks include thyroid hormones, liver and kidney function, blood sugar levels to assess your diabetes risk, and vitamin and mineral levels to explore whether a deficiency could be causing symptoms such as fatigue and low energy.

What Is Metabolic Syndrome?

Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of health problems that can increase your risk of type 2 diabetes and diseases of the heart and blood vessels.

The health problems that make up metabolic syndrome are often called risk factors, as they put you at higher risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. They include high blood pressure, insulin resistance, being overweight or obese, and an unhealthy balance of fats in your blood.

Metabolic syndrome is very common — around one in four UK adults are thought to have it. It may not cause any initial symptoms and you may only find out you have metabolic syndrome after a check-up with your GP, or a blood test to check your blood glucose and cholesterol levels.

What Is Lipoprotein(A)?

Lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a), is another important molecule that’s similar to LDL cholesterol, but it’s much stickier. A high level of Lp(a) is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease as it can cause atherosclerosis (narrowing of the arteries by a build-up of plaques).

Unlike other lipid biomarkers, lifestyle changes aren’t very effective at reducing your Lp(a) level. That’s because the amount of Lp(a) is mostly determined by your genetics. Lipid-lowering therapy, such as statins, is one of the best ways to improve your Lp(a) level.