Calm Logic
GLP-1 Specialist
Triglycerides are included in any lipid panel/test.
I will post some of the test combinations recommended by Fitomics soon.
I will post some of the test combinations recommended by Fitomics soon.
Fitomics Research Labs Discount Blood Testing
- Thread starter Don Ligero
- Start date
Calm Logic
GLP-1 Specialist
Here's the one I used as a guide:
Being frugal, I picked just a subset of those.
For the other half of the population:
Being frugal, I picked just a subset of those.
For the other half of the population:
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zpped
Moderator
Most of the fitomics panels are shit. For example, everything in the "Womens" panel is also equally relevant to Men.
Calm Logic
GLP-1 Specialist
I assumed it was a cost-benefit thing they did, rather than include everything at an even higher price. I am not much into optimization myself, more about preventing/monitoring side effects.
I usually build mine out myself. There is always either something missing in the panel or something I don’t care to get.
Calm Logic
GLP-1 Specialist
I plugged both panels into Google Gemini:
Here's a table of the blood tests, with duplicates removed and ordered by their general importance for Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) monitoring. Keep in mind that individual needs can vary, and a doctor will always determine the most appropriate tests for you.
Here's a table of the blood tests, with duplicates removed and ordered by their general importance for Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) monitoring. Keep in mind that individual needs can vary, and a doctor will always determine the most appropriate tests for you.
| Rank | Blood Test | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Free Testosterone, Free, Direct With Total Testosterone | Directly measures the amount of bioavailable testosterone and the total amount in your blood. Crucial for diagnosing low testosterone and monitoring TRT effectiveness. Different labs might use slightly different names (e.g., "Testosterone, Free, Direct With Total Testosterone, LC/MS-MS"), but they measure the same key analytes. |
| 2 | Estradiol, Sensitive, LC/MS | Measures the primary form of estrogen. Important for monitoring potential side effects of TRT, as testosterone can aromatize (convert) into estrogen. The "sensitive" assay is preferred for men as it has a lower detection range. |
| 3 | Complete Blood Count (CBC) With Differential | Assesses overall blood health, including red and white blood cell counts, and platelets. Important to monitor as TRT can sometimes affect red blood cell production (erythrocytosis). |
| 4 | Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Total+ | A marker for prostate health. Important to monitor, especially in men over 40 or those with a family history of prostate issues, as TRT *might* have an impact on PSA levels in some individuals. The "%" often refers to the percentage of free PSA, which can provide additional information. |
| 5 | Lipid Panel | Measures cholesterol and triglycerides. Important for assessing cardiovascular risk, which can be influenced by hormone levels and lifestyle changes associated with TRT. |
| 6 | Metabolic Panel (14), Comprehensive | Provides a broad overview of your body's chemical balance, including kidney and liver function, electrolytes, and blood glucose. Important for overall health assessment and to monitor for any potential metabolic changes. |
| 7 | Sex Hormone-binding Globulin (SHBG) | Measures the protein that binds to testosterone and estrogen in the blood. Knowing SHBG levels helps in more accurately determining the amount of free (bioavailable) testosterone. |
| 8 | Follicle-stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing Hormone (LH) | These pituitary hormones stimulate testosterone production in the testes. Measuring them can help determine the cause of low testosterone (primary vs. secondary hypogonadism) *before* starting TRT. Their role in ongoing monitoring during TRT is less direct. |
| 9 | Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) | A more potent androgen than testosterone. While not always routinely monitored, it can be important in some individuals due to its role in certain androgenic effects (e.g., hair loss, prostate issues). |
| 10 | Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) Sulfate | A precursor hormone that the body can convert to testosterone and estrogen. While it's often measured to assess adrenal function and overall hormonal balance, its direct role in TRT monitoring is less critical than the directly measured sex hormones. Some clinicians may check it, especially if there are concerns about adrenal health or if the patient reports specific symptoms. It's generally considered less directly indicative of TRT effectiveness than testosterone and estradiol. |
| 11 | Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 (IGF-1) With Z Score | Primarily reflects growth hormone levels and has various metabolic effects. May be monitored in some individuals, but not as directly related to TRT management as the hormones listed above. The Z-score helps interpret the IGF-1 level relative to age and sex. |
| 12 | Thyroid-stimulating Hormone (TSH) | The primary marker for thyroid function. While thyroid issues can sometimes overlap with testosterone issues, it's not a direct marker for TRT management unless there's a known thyroid condition or symptoms suggesting one. |
| 13 | Free Thyroxine + T4 | Measures the free and total levels of the main thyroid hormone. Similar to TSH, important for overall health but not a primary marker for TRT unless indicated by symptoms or other findings. |
| 14 | Cortisol | A stress hormone with various effects on the body. While important for overall health, it's not routinely monitored for TRT unless there are specific concerns or symptoms related to adrenal function. |
| 15 | Insulin | Measures blood sugar regulation. While metabolic health is important in the context of TRT, insulin levels are not a direct marker for TRT effectiveness or typical side effects, unless there are specific concerns about insulin resistance or diabetes. |
| 16 | Triiodothyronine (T3), Free | Another thyroid hormone. Similar to TSH and T4, it's important for overall health but not a primary marker for TRT unless indicated by symptoms or other findings. |
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Thank you for addressing this, and taking the time to post.
My main concern is vitamins and triglycerides, but wanted the free T test to be sure thee was no issue. I appear to be fine there and doubt I will do any TRT.
This will really help!
Unfortunately for vitamins/minerals there is not one panel that covers them all. I usually add Vitamin D ($16), B12/Folate ($12) and sometimes magnesium ($5) to my panels.
Calm Logic
GLP-1 Specialist
That's interesting about the magnesium. I never thought about that, but I now see it's in one of the "kitchen sink" panels:
That’s like a once a year panel. A lot of valuable labs but $600 is steep.
Calm Logic
GLP-1 Specialist
Here is the Fitomics pricing for each test based on the spreadsheet @Peloma posted, with descriptions from Google Gemini:
(will be updating the prices since some are off)
(will be updating the prices since some are off)
| Price | Test | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 3.98 | Reticulocyte Count and Index | Immature RBC count; evaluates bone marrow. |
| 4.98 | Magnesium | Electrolyte for muscle/nerve function, blood sugar, BP. |
| 5.10 | Complete Blood Count (CBC) w/ differential | Measures blood cells; diagnoses anemia, infections. Includes WBC breakdown. |
| 5.60 | Creatinine w/ eGFR | Creatinine assesses kidney function; eGFR is calculated from it. |
| 5.99 | TSH | Screens for thyroid disorders. |
| 6.00 | (Hb) A1c | Average blood sugar over 2-3 months; for diabetes. |
| 6.58 | Comprehensive Metabolic Profile (14) | Overview of metabolism; measures glucose, electrolytes, kidney/liver markers. |
| 6.98 | Lipid Profile w/ Non-HDL Cholesterol | Measures cholesterol, triglycerides; Non-HDL is "bad" cholesterol. |
| 6.98 | Free T4 | Unbound thyroxine; regulates metabolism. |
| 6.99 | Progesterone | Hormone for menstrual cycle, pregnancy. |
| 6.99 | Free T3 | Unbound triiodothyronine; affects growth, metabolism, heart rate. |
| 6.99 | rT3 (Reverse T3) | Inactive form of T3; info on thyroid metabolism. |
| 6.99 | Total Bilirubin | Measures bilirubin; evaluates liver function, jaundice. |
| 7.30 | Selenium | Trace element for thyroid, antioxidant defense. |
| 7.34 | Prolactin | Hormone for milk production. |
| 7.39 | Luteinizing Hormone (LH) | Controls menstrual cycle; stimulates testosterone. |
| 7.90 | Insulin | Hormone for glucose entry into cells. |
| 7.90 | Lithium | Medication level for psychiatric disorders. |
| 7.98 | Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) | Stimulates ovarian follicles, sperm production. |
| 8.98 | Thyroglobulin Antibody | Antibodies against thyroid protein; for autoimmune thyroid disease. |
| 9.99 | DHEA-Sulfate | Precursor to testosterone, estrogen. |
| 11.09 | Thyroid Peroixdase (TPO) Antibodies | Antibodies against thyroid enzyme; for autoimmune thyroid disease. |
| 11.34 | Copper | Trace element level. |
| 12.93 | Vitamin B12 and Folate | B vitamins for RBCs, DNA, nerves. |
| 12.98 | Apolipoprotein B | Protein in LDL; assesses cardiac risk. |
| 13.86 | Insulin-Like Growth Factor (IGF-1) | Hormone for growth, metabolism. |
| 14.40 | Homocyst(e)ine | Amino acid; high levels linked to heart disease. |
| 14.98 | Estradiol (E2), sensitive, LC/MS (E2) | Primary estrogen; sensitive test; accurate method. |
| 15.00 | Reticulocyte Count and Index | Immature RBC count; evaluates bone marrow. |
| 15.00 | Ferritin | Iron storage level. |
| 15.69 | C-Reactive Protein, High Sensitivity | Inflammation marker; predicts heart disease risk. |
| 16.00 | Vitamin D (25-Hydroxy) | Vitamin D status. |
| 16.67 | Garnma-glutamyltransferase (GGT) | Liver enzyme; indicates liver damage. |
| 16.99 | Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin (SHBG) | Protein that binds sex hormones; measures free hormone. |
| 17.20 | Apolipoprotein B | Protein in LDL; assesses cardiac risk. |
| 18.14 | Thyrocalcitonin (Calcitonin) | Thyroid hormone; regulates calcium. |
| 18.89 | Lipoprotein A | Lipoprotein with cholesterol; heart disease risk. |
| 21.25 | Thyroxine-binding -Globulin (TBG) | Protein that binds thyroid hormones. |
| 22.48 | Total Testosterone (LC/MS) & Free Testosterone (IFA) | Total and free (active) testosterone; accurate method. |
| 22.68 | Garnma-glutamyltransferase (GGT) | Liver enzyme; indicates liver damage. |
| 25.95 | Triiodothronine (T3), Total | Total thyroid hormone T3. |
| 26.95 | Homocyst(e)ine | Amino acid; high levels linked to heart disease. |
| 28.00 | Uric acid | Waste product; high levels cause gout. |
| 36.90 | Lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2) | Enzyme linked to artery inflammation; heart risk. |
| 38.95 | Apolipoprotein A-1 | Protein in HDL; assesses cardiac risk. |
| 39.99 | 17-OH Progesterone, LC/MS | Hormone; evaluates adrenal function. |
| 44.99 | Iron and Total Iron Binding Capacity | Iron level and blood's iron-binding capacity. |
| 45.95 | NMR LipoProfile | Detailed lipoprotein analysis; advanced heart risk. |
| 48.95 | OmegaCheck | Likely measures omega-3 fatty acids; heart health. |
| 48.99 | ADMA/SDMA | Amino acid derivatives; linked to heart/kidney disease. |
| 49.95 | Galectin-3 | Protein for inflammation/fibrosis; heart failure risk. |
| 49.98 | Total Testosterone (LC/MS) & Free Testosterone (IFA) | Total and free (active) testosterone; accurate method. |
| 55.00 | NMR Lipofractonation | Detailed lipoprotein subfraction analysis; advanced heart risk. |
| 57.30 | Cortisol | Stress hormone; evaluates adrenal function. |
| 67.18 | Manganese | Trace element level. |
| 73.11 | N-terminal -Pro-Brain Natriuretic Peptide (NT-proBNP) | Heart hormone; assesses heart function, failure. |
| 75.09 | Cystatin C | Protein for kidney function; less affected by muscle mass. |
| 77.64 | Homocyst e)ine | Amino acid; high levels linked to heart disease. |
| 88.92 | B-Type Natriuretic Peptide (BNP) | Heart hormone; assesses heart function, failure. |
| 88.92 | Nterminal -Pro-Brain Natriuretic Peptide (NT-proBNP) | Heart hormone; assesses heart function, failure. |
| 99.00 | Total Testosterone (LC/MS) & Free Testosterone (IFA) | Total and free (active) testosterone; accurate method. |
| 108.68 | MTHFR Gene, DNA Aanalysis | Detects MTHFR gene variations; affects folate, homocysteine. |
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Can you post this on Meso once you update the pricing? This is really helpful. There is a labs thread over there.
michaelangelo
GLP-1 Novice
Going to get blood work to look into TRT therapy. Im 43 and don't have insurance . I was hoping to get the test and buy TRT on gray. Ive been looking and haven't seen any. Am I wasting my time or just doing a poor job on diggin in this forum? Thanks in advance!!
A GLP forum isn’t the best place to source test. Join MesoRX, introduce yourself, gain access to the sources section, then find what you need.
Calm Logic
GLP-1 Specialist
With Biden's prostate cancer in the news, it's a reminder that one in eight men eventually get prostate cancer. So if you are a male and happen to be on HGH (or even other peptides like Ipamorelin), a reminder to monitor your IGF levels (even though correlation is not causation):
pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
"These findings support the role of IGF-I in the development of prostate cancer, including for aggressive disease."
"Keep IGF-I and IGFBP-3 mid-normal range for the patient’s age and gender"
"Should serum IGF-I levels be proven to play a causal role in the pathogenesis of CaP, interpreting the risk associated with therapies such as GH must take into account both the duration of exposure and the risk magnitude associated with the degree of serum IGF-I elevation. Since GH-deficient patients often have a subnormal IGF-I serum level, which normalizes on therapy, their CaP risk on GH therapy probably does not increase substantially above that of the normal population. Until further research in the area dictates otherwise, ongoing surveillance and routine monitoring of IGF-I and IGFBP-3 levels in GH recipients must become standard of care."
Similarly, for breast cancer:
pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
"Functional antagonism of hGH mediated-signal transduction either alone or as an adjuvant therapy, is a promising approach for both the prevention and treatment of human mammary carcinoma."
More generally:
"Inhibition of the GH/IGF1 axis has been highlighted as a key strategy to improve human healthspan by reducing the incidence of chronic age-related diseases such as cancer and diabetes."
Growth hormone and prostate cancer: Guilty by association? - PMC
Recent case-control studies have found a 7–8% increase in the serum levels of insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-I in patients with prostate cancer (CaP), the most frequently diagnosed cancer in men. We hereby review what is currently known about ...
pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
"These findings support the role of IGF-I in the development of prostate cancer, including for aggressive disease."
"Keep IGF-I and IGFBP-3 mid-normal range for the patient’s age and gender"
"Should serum IGF-I levels be proven to play a causal role in the pathogenesis of CaP, interpreting the risk associated with therapies such as GH must take into account both the duration of exposure and the risk magnitude associated with the degree of serum IGF-I elevation. Since GH-deficient patients often have a subnormal IGF-I serum level, which normalizes on therapy, their CaP risk on GH therapy probably does not increase substantially above that of the normal population. Until further research in the area dictates otherwise, ongoing surveillance and routine monitoring of IGF-I and IGFBP-3 levels in GH recipients must become standard of care."
Similarly, for breast cancer:
The contribution of growth hormone to mammary neoplasia - PMC
While the effects of growth hormone (GH) on longitudinal growth are well established, the observation that GH contributes to neoplastic progression is more recent. Accumulating literature implicates GH-mediated signal transduction in the development ...
pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
"Functional antagonism of hGH mediated-signal transduction either alone or as an adjuvant therapy, is a promising approach for both the prevention and treatment of human mammary carcinoma."
More generally:
"Inhibition of the GH/IGF1 axis has been highlighted as a key strategy to improve human healthspan by reducing the incidence of chronic age-related diseases such as cancer and diabetes."
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Very good and timely post for all to see. I just drew my first labs this morning since starting TRT and tesa/ipa a few months ago. Eager to see results. Hopefully all good. I do have 2 prior men's advanced comprehensive health span panels from Fitomics for baseline numbers. Will post new findings when available.
rkl123
GLP-1 Enthusiast
The community in general mostly doesn't consider the long term risks of the GH secretaogues.With Biden's prostate cancer in the news, it's a reminder that one in eight men eventually get prostate cancer. So if you are a male and happen to be on HGH (or even other peptides like Ipamorelin), a reminder to monitor your IGF levels (even though correlation is not causation):
Growth hormone and prostate cancer: Guilty by association? - PMC
Recent case-control studies have found a 7–8% increase in the serum levels of insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-I in patients with prostate cancer (CaP), the most frequently diagnosed cancer in men. We hereby review what is currently known about ...
"These findings support the role of IGF-I in the development of prostate cancer, including for aggressive disease."
"Keep IGF-I and IGFBP-3 mid-normal range for the patient’s age and gender"
"Should serum IGF-I levels be proven to play a causal role in the pathogenesis of CaP, interpreting the risk associated with therapies such as GH must take into account both the duration of exposure and the risk magnitude associated with the degree of serum IGF-I elevation. Since GH-deficient patients often have a subnormal IGF-I serum level, which normalizes on therapy, their CaP risk on GH therapy probably does not increase substantially above that of the normal population. Until further research in the area dictates otherwise, ongoing surveillance and routine monitoring of IGF-I and IGFBP-3 levels in GH recipients must become standard of care."
Similarly, for breast cancer:
The contribution of growth hormone to mammary neoplasia - PMC
While the effects of growth hormone (GH) on longitudinal growth are well established, the observation that GH contributes to neoplastic progression is more recent. Accumulating literature implicates GH-mediated signal transduction in the development ...
"Functional antagonism of hGH mediated-signal transduction either alone or as an adjuvant therapy, is a promising approach for both the prevention and treatment of human mammary carcinoma."
More generally:
"Inhibition of the GH/IGF1 axis has been highlighted as a key strategy to improve human healthspan by reducing the incidence of chronic age-related diseases such as cancer and diabetes."
This community doesn't consider cancer risks particularly well in general. Everybody and their mother is on GLOW yet BPC-157 and TB-500 are both risky due to angiogenesis being a great way to increase tumor growth rate and TB4 (and thus likely TB-500) also having specific metastisization risks.
I don't know that it would make much sense to take HGH or GH secretagogues if you're not willing to take on the increased risk from higher IGF-1, levels, though. The benefits we see from them are fairly specifically linked to having higher IGF-1.
Calm Logic
GLP-1 Specialist
I assume a small (or very small) subset of grey users take them for being below the median:
Insulin-like growth factor 1 - Wikipedia
en.wikipedia.org
Low IGF-1 levels are associated with cardiovascular disease, while high IGF-1 levels are associated with cancer. Mid-range IGF-1 levels are associated with the lowest mortality.
Google Gemini said:
Levels of IGF-1 that are higher or lower than normal may also be caused by:Content - Health Encyclopedia - University of Rochester Medical Center
www.urmc.rochester.edu
- Hypothyroidism, or low thyroid hormone levels.
- Liver disease.
- Uncontrolled diabetes mellitus.
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Calm Logic
GLP-1 Specialist
After talking more to Google Gemini, its table of lab tests in regards to male hormone assessment/monitoring, to include its suggestion of prolactin ($7.39 at Fitomics):
| Rank | Blood Test | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Free Testosterone, Free, Direct With Total Testosterone | Directly measures the amount of bioavailable testosterone and the total amount in your blood. Crucial for diagnosing low testosterone and monitoring TRT effectiveness. Different labs might use slightly different names (e.g., "Testosterone, Free, Direct With Total Testosterone, LC/MS-MS"), but they measure the same key analytes. |
| 2 | Estradiol, Sensitive, LC/MS | Measures the primary form of estrogen. Important for monitoring potential side effects of TRT, as testosterone can aromatize (convert) into estrogen. The "sensitive" assay is preferred for men as it has a lower detection range. |
| 3 | Prolactin | A hormone produced by the pituitary gland. Elevated levels can sometimes be associated with low testosterone and can also be a side effect of certain medications or underlying medical conditions. Monitoring prolactin can help identify potential contributing factors to hormonal imbalances or side effects during TRT. |
| 4 | Complete Blood Count (CBC) With Differential | Assesses overall blood health, including red and white blood cell counts, and platelets. Important to monitor as TRT can sometimes affect red blood cell production (erythrocytosis). |
| 5 | Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Total+ | A marker for prostate health. Important to monitor, especially in men over 40 or those with a family history of prostate issues, as TRT *might* have an impact on PSA levels in some individuals. The "%" often refers to the percentage of free PSA, which can provide additional information. |
| 6 | Lipid Panel | Measures cholesterol and triglycerides. Important for assessing cardiovascular risk, which can be influenced by hormone levels and lifestyle changes associated with TRT. |
| 7 | Metabolic Panel (14), Comprehensive | Provides a broad overview of your body's chemical balance, including kidney and liver function, electrolytes, and blood glucose. Important for overall health assessment and to monitor for any potential metabolic changes. |
| 8 | Sex Hormone-binding Globulin (SHBG) | Measures the protein that binds to testosterone and estrogen in the blood. Knowing SHBG levels helps in more accurately determining the amount of free (bioavailable) testosterone. |
| 9 | Follicle-stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing Hormone (LH) | These pituitary hormones stimulate testosterone production in the testes. Measuring them can help determine the cause of low testosterone (primary vs. secondary hypogonadism) *before* starting TRT. Their role in ongoing monitoring during TRT is less direct. |
| 10 | Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) | A more potent androgen than testosterone. While not always routinely monitored, it can be important in some individuals due to its role in certain androgenic effects (e.g., hair loss, prostate issues). |
| 11 | Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) Sulfate | A precursor hormone that the body can convert to testosterone and estrogen. While it's often measured to assess adrenal function and overall hormonal balance, its direct role in TRT monitoring is less critical than the directly measured sex hormones. Some clinicians may check it, especially if there are concerns about adrenal health or if the patient reports specific symptoms. It's generally considered less directly indicative of TRT effectiveness than testosterone and estradiol. |
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Calm Logic
GLP-1 Specialist
Why your doctor doesn't order a blood test for vitamin D ($16 at Fitomics):
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
"Vitamin D requirements may vary by individual; thus, no one serum vitamin D level cutpoint defines deficiency, and no consensus exists regarding the precise serum levels of vitamin D that represent optimal health or sufficiency."
"The USPSTF concludes that the overall evidence on the benefits of screening for vitamin D deficiency is lacking."
"Three large, randomized trials confirmed the absence of clinical benefit in terms of cardiovascular outcomes, despite differences in supplement dosage and follow-up duration. These data were also supported by meta-analyses, indicating the safety but null effect of vitamin D."
On the other hand:
"A low vitamin D status is a risk in particular for cancers of colon, prostate, breast and leukocytes."
"The present review explores the potential of combining melatonin and vitamin D as synergistic adjuvants for cancer therapy. These agents have shown promise individually in cancer prevention and treatment, and their combined effects warrant investigation."
"The dual burden of obesity and malnutrition poses significant risks, including immune dysfunction, delayed wound healing, anemia, metabolic disturbances, and deficiencies in micronutrients such as vitamin D, iron, magnesium, and zinc, among others."
"Malnutrition is often neglected or not given enough attention in individuals with obesity undergoing rapid weight loss through aggressive caloric restriction, pharmacological therapies, and/or surgical interventions. "
Screening for Vitamin D Deficiency in Adults: US Preventive Services Task Force Recommendation Statement - PubMed
The USPSTF concludes that the current evidence is insufficient to assess the balance of benefits and harms of screening for vitamin D deficiency in asymptomatic adults. (I statement).
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
"Vitamin D requirements may vary by individual; thus, no one serum vitamin D level cutpoint defines deficiency, and no consensus exists regarding the precise serum levels of vitamin D that represent optimal health or sufficiency."
"The USPSTF concludes that the overall evidence on the benefits of screening for vitamin D deficiency is lacking."
"Three large, randomized trials confirmed the absence of clinical benefit in terms of cardiovascular outcomes, despite differences in supplement dosage and follow-up duration. These data were also supported by meta-analyses, indicating the safety but null effect of vitamin D."
On the other hand:
"A low vitamin D status is a risk in particular for cancers of colon, prostate, breast and leukocytes."
Melatonin and vitamin D as potential synergistic adjuvants for cancer therapy (Review)
Significant advancements have been made in cancer therapy; however, limitations remain with some conventional approaches. Adjuvants are agents used alongside primary treatments to enhance their efficacy and the treatment outcomes of patients. Modern lifestyles contribute to deficiencies in...
www.spandidos-publications.com
"The present review explores the potential of combining melatonin and vitamin D as synergistic adjuvants for cancer therapy. These agents have shown promise individually in cancer prevention and treatment, and their combined effects warrant investigation."
"The dual burden of obesity and malnutrition poses significant risks, including immune dysfunction, delayed wound healing, anemia, metabolic disturbances, and deficiencies in micronutrients such as vitamin D, iron, magnesium, and zinc, among others."
"Malnutrition is often neglected or not given enough attention in individuals with obesity undergoing rapid weight loss through aggressive caloric restriction, pharmacological therapies, and/or surgical interventions. "
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Calm Logic
GLP-1 Specialist
Another panel at Fitomics, but I would just pick-and-choose and add Vitamin D at least:
Complete Blood Count (CBC) With Differential
Metabolic Panel (14), Comprehensive
Ferritin
Vitamin B12 and Folate
Iron and Total Iron-binding Capacity (TIBC)
Lipid Panel With Apolipoprotein B (ApoB)
Triiodothyronine (T3), Free
Thyroid-stimulating Hormone (TSH) and Free T4
Common GLP-1 Weight Management Panel
Sale Price:$70.99 Original Price:$188.65Complete Blood Count (CBC) With Differential
Metabolic Panel (14), Comprehensive
Ferritin
Vitamin B12 and Folate
Iron and Total Iron-binding Capacity (TIBC)
Lipid Panel With Apolipoprotein B (ApoB)
Triiodothyronine (T3), Free
Thyroid-stimulating Hormone (TSH) and Free T4
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Calm Logic
GLP-1 Specialist
Fitomics blood tests recommended by Google Gemini for skin health:
Skin Health Tests: Cost-Effectiveness Ranking
| Rank | Test Name | Price (USD) | Description & Relevance for Skin Health |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Complete Blood Count (CBC) With Differential | $4.58 | A foundational test offering a broad overview of your overall health. It can indicate issues like infection, inflammation, or anemia (low red blood cells can affect skin pallor and healing). While not directly skin-specific, it's an inexpensive starting point for identifying systemic problems that could impact your skin. |
| 2 | Metabolic Panel (8), Basic | $6.21 | Assesses kidney function, blood glucose, and electrolyte balance. Imbalances in these areas can indirectly affect skin hydration, texture, and overall appearance. For example, elevated glucose can be linked to certain skin conditions. |
| 3 | C-Reactive Protein (CRP), Quantitative | $7.21 | A marker of general inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation can worsen many skin conditions, including acne, eczema, and psoriasis. Understanding inflammatory levels can be a good, inexpensive indicator. |
| 4 | Lipid Panel | $8.32 | Measures cholesterol and triglyceride levels. While primarily for heart health, healthy fats are crucial for maintaining your skin's protective barrier. Extreme lipid imbalances can sometimes manifest in skin conditions (e.g., xanthomas). |
| 5 | Thyroid-stimulating Hormone (TSH) | $8.41 | TSH is a key indicator of thyroid function. An underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) often causes dry, flaky skin, while an overactive thyroid can lead to warm, moist skin. This is an essential and relatively inexpensive test for skin texture and hydration. |
| 6 | Zinc, Serum or Plasma | $9.71 | Zinc is vital for wound healing, immune function, and reducing inflammation, all of which are crucial for healthy skin. A deficiency can contribute to issues like acne, impaired wound healing, and skin irritation. Highly impactful for its specific role in skin health. |
| 7 | Thyroid Profile With TSH | $18.62 | A more comprehensive look at thyroid function, including TSH and T4. This provides a more complete picture than TSH alone and is still a good value for identifying thyroid-related skin issues. |
| 8 | Vitamin C | $25.49 | Essential for collagen synthesis, which gives skin its structure and elasticity, and acts as a powerful antioxidant protecting skin from damage. A deficiency can lead to fragile skin and poor wound healing. Very important for anti-aging and overall skin integrity. |
| 9 | Vitamin A and E | $41.32 | Vitamins A and E are potent antioxidants vital for skin health. Vitamin A is crucial for cell turnover and oil gland regulation, while Vitamin E protects against oxidative damage. Both are key for healthy, vibrant skin. |
| 10 | Common GLP-1 Weight Management Panel | $70.99 | While focused on weight management, this panel might include markers (like glucose, insulin) that relate to metabolic health, which can indirectly impact skin (e.g., insulin resistance and skin changes like acanthosis nigricans). Its relevance is indirect, but if weight management is a concern, it can provide broader insights. |
| 11 | Vitamin A, E, and β-Carotene Profile | $65.34 | A more comprehensive test for these critical fat-soluble vitamins and antioxidants, providing a more complete picture of your body's protective mechanisms for skin. It's a good investment for detailed antioxidant status. |
| 12 | NMR LipoProfile® With Lipids (With Graph) | $73.96 | This is a detailed lipid panel that assesses particle size and number, which can be more predictive of cardiovascular risk than standard lipid panels. While primarily for heart health, overall metabolic health is reflected in skin, and chronic inflammation or metabolic dysregulation can impact skin conditions. |
| 13 | Leptin, Serum or Plasma | $55.43 | Leptin is a hormone involved in energy balance and metabolism. While its direct link to general skin health is less prominent than other tests, imbalances can be associated with metabolic conditions that might have dermatological manifestations. More specific for certain research or metabolic concerns related to skin. |
| 14 | Manganese, Plasma | $76.48 | Manganese is an essential trace mineral involved in various enzymatic processes, including antioxidant defense. While important for overall health, its direct and general impact on skin health for screening purposes is less commonly highlighted compared to zinc or vitamins. More specialized. |
| 15 | Nickel, Plasma | $78.16 | Nickel sensitivity can cause allergic contact dermatitis in some individuals. This test might be useful if nickel allergy is suspected to be contributing to skin issues, but it's not a general skin health marker for most people. Very specific for allergy concerns. |
| 16 | Molybdenum, Whole Blood | $86.18 | Molybdenum is a trace element that acts as a cofactor for several enzymes. While essential for overall health, its direct and common relevance to general skin health for screening is low. This is a highly specialized test. |
| 17 | Vitamin B3 (Niacin and Metabolite) | $90.72 | Niacin (Vitamin B3) is important for cellular energy production and DNA repair. A severe deficiency (Pellagra) has distinct skin manifestations. Topical niacinamide (a form of B3) is popular in skincare for barrier function and inflammation. This test could be relevant if deficiency is suspected, but it's not a primary general skin health screen for most. |
| 18 | Vitamin K1 | $79.94 | Vitamin K1 is primarily known for its role in blood clotting and bone health. While deficiencies can lead to bruising, its direct and general relevance as a routine skin health marker is limited. It's more specialized. |
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Calm Logic
GLP-1 Specialist
A subset of the above.
Gemini-generated blood test panel for skin health, with Fitomics tests and pricing, ranked by cost effectiveness (best first):
Total cost $85.93
After talking more to it:
Cost-Effective Blood Panel for Skin Health & Hyperpigmentation
This panel is designed to provide insights into key biomarkers related to overall skin health, including factors that can influence hyperpigmentation, while prioritizing cost-effectiveness from the provided price sheet.
Gemini-generated blood test panel for skin health, with Fitomics tests and pricing, ranked by cost effectiveness (best first):
|
Total cost $85.93
After talking more to it:
Cost-Effective Blood Panel for Skin Health & Hyperpigmentation
This panel is designed to provide insights into key biomarkers related to overall skin health, including factors that can influence hyperpigmentation, while prioritizing cost-effectiveness from the provided price sheet.
| Rank | Biomarker & Panels | Insider Price | Description & Relevance |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Urinalysis, Routine With Microscopic Examination on Positives | $4.54 | A general health check that can indicate systemic issues affecting overall health and, by extension, skin appearance. |
| 2 | Uric Acid | $4.54 | A metabolic waste product; imbalances can reflect general metabolic health, which impacts skin vitality. |
| 3 | Complete Blood Count (CBC) With Differential | $4.58 | Provides a broad overview of overall health, detecting conditions like anemia (which can cause skin pallor) or inflammation that might affect skin. |
| 4 | Cortisol | $5.17 | A stress hormone; chronic imbalances can contribute to various skin issues, including acne, impaired healing, and inflammation. |
| 5 | Hepatic Function Panel (7) | $5.78 | Assesses liver health, which is crucial for detoxification and nutrient processing. A healthy liver contributes to clear skin and prevents discoloration (e.g., jaundice). |
| 6 | Metabolic Panel (8), Basic | $6.21 | Offers insights into kidney function, blood glucose levels, and electrolyte balance, all of which are fundamental to overall health and can be reflected in skin appearance. |
| 7 | Zinc, Serum or Plasma | $9.71 | An essential mineral vital for wound healing, immune function, and managing inflammatory skin conditions. Deficiency can impact skin integrity and repair. |
| 8 | Thyroid Profile | $10.21 | Evaluates the function of the thyroid gland. Thyroid imbalances can lead to dry skin, hair loss, changes in skin texture, and can also contribute to hyperpigmentation. |
| 9 | Vitamin B12 and Folate | $12.93 | Deficiencies in Vitamin B12 can directly cause hyperpigmentation, particularly in certain areas of the body, and are important for overall skin cell health. |
| 10 | Vitamin D, 25-Hydroxy | $16.00 | Crucial for skin cell growth, repair, and immune regulation within the skin. Deficiency can be linked to various skin conditions and overall skin health. |
| 11 | Carotene, B | $17.06 | A precursor to Vitamin A and a powerful antioxidant. It influences skin pigmentation and offers protection against oxidative damage, which can contribute to hyperpigmentation. |
| 12 | Vitamin A | $21.55 | Essential for normal skin cell development, turnover, and repair, contributing to overall skin health and a healthy complexion. |
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zpped
Moderator
This might be the best use of AI I've seen yet.
Calm Logic
GLP-1 Specialist
Vitamin D Supplementation Protects Telomeres in VITAL
Dr JoAnn Manson reports on the latest VITAL trial results, which provide new insight into the relationship between vitamin D supplementation and biological measures of aging.
www.medscape.com
"These findings are promising and indicate that vitamin D may have a role in countering cellular aging and slowing at least one of the biological pathways of aging. For omega-3 supplementation, we did not see a significant effect of the intervention on telomere length shortening."
Nice find. Would like to know the blood levels of vitamin D in the test subjects who were supplementing with 2000 iu's. Normal levels or supra-physiologic levels? And are there negative health consequences of being supra-physiologic that might offset the benefits, i.e. hemochromatosis? I discontinued my own vit K2/D3 supplementation when my labs came back high. Re-testing 5 months later showed normal values again.Vitamin D Supplementation Protects Telomeres in VITAL
Dr JoAnn Manson reports on the latest VITAL trial results, which provide new insight into the relationship between vitamin D supplementation and biological measures of aging.
"These findings are promising and indicate that vitamin D may have a role in countering cellular aging and slowing at least one of the biological pathways of aging. For omega-3 supplementation, we did not see a significant effect of the intervention on telomere length shortening."
zpped
Moderator
How high were you? I supplement 5k daily and only came up in the low 50s, so midrange.
122.0. The reference range is 30-100 ng/ml.
When I retested 5 months later after completely stopping supplementation, the level was 55.1.
But since then, and out of habit, I will still take one K2/D3 supplement (200 mcg K2/10,000 mg D3) about once every 2 weeks instead of daily.
Calm Logic
GLP-1 Specialist
Now that you mention K2, that reminds me that I should also eat more greens 🙂
For Fitomics.org, coupon code for 10% off lab orders: FIRST10
I got my preliminary results e-mail today (Monday), after having my blood drawn at Labcorp on Thursday.
Thanks to tirz, these are the best blood results I have had in over ten years. So I think it helps not just from the weight loss (since I was younger and weighed less back then).
For Fitomics.org, coupon code for 10% off lab orders: FIRST10
I got my preliminary results e-mail today (Monday), after having my blood drawn at Labcorp on Thursday.
Thanks to tirz, these are the best blood results I have had in over ten years. So I think it helps not just from the weight loss (since I was younger and weighed less back then).
Last edited:
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