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IMULAB

Diet and lifestyle

Diet and lifestyle

£126.00 GBP
£126.00 GBP
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How do you want to take your sample?

Please choose one option below

  • Collect your own finger prick sample at home  Free

    Self sampling kit containing everything you need to take your own sample at home.

  • Venous blood sample at a Superdrug Clinic  +£35.00

    Visit one of Superdrug's clinics across the UK where a healthcare professional will take your sample from a vein in your arm. We’ll email you instructions on how to book after we’ve processed your order.

  • Book at home venous blood sample with a nurse  +£59.00

    Book an appointment for a nurse to visit your home and take your blood sample from a vein your arm. 

  • Arrange own venous sample with a healthcare professional  Free

    Make an appointment with a healthcare professional of your choice to have your venous blood sample taken. You will be responsible for arranging your appointment and any additional fees.

✅ Results expected within 2 working days

Looking for a comprehensive blood test that provides insights into how your lifestyle and diet are affecting your overall health?

This test includes a range of essential biomarkers, including liver and kidney function, cholesterol levels, and B vitamins, helping you to gain an understanding of your health status. By checking your blood sugar levels, this test also enables you to assess your risk of developing diabetes, allowing you to take action to prevent this condition before it develops. With our Diet and Lifestyle blood test, you'll be empowered to take control of your health and make informed choices to live your best life.

Book an appointment today with our partner clinics at Superdrug for a venous blood sample. Alternatively, you can choose to have one of our nurses or your own healthcare professional take your venous sample in the comfort of your own home. Results are normally available within 2 working days from receipt of your sample at our laboratory and delivered directly to you through our secure online patient portal.

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Cholesterol profile

Total cholesterol

Cholesterol is a crucial lipid or fat present in the body. Despite its infamous reputation, it serves significant functions such as building cell membranes and synthesizing crucial hormones such as testosterone and oestradiol. The liver is responsible for manufacturing cholesterol, but it also originates from the food we consume. Although various types of cholesterol exist, the two primary elements of total cholesterol are HDL (high-density lipoprotein), which is defensive against heart disease, and LDL (low-density lipoprotein), which can contribute to cardiovascular disease when present in high levels. A total cholesterol result on its own has limited value in assessing the risk of heart disease. High levels of HDL cholesterol can cause an elevated total cholesterol result, yet may provide protection against heart disease. Conversely, an individual can have a normal total cholesterol level but have low levels of protective HDL cholesterol. The most significant factors are the levels of HDL and LDL cholesterol, and the proportion of total cholesterol that comprises protective HDL cholesterol. The cholesterol profile presents a detailed breakdown of the components of total cholesterol.

LDL cholesterol

LDL cholesterol, or low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, is a compound comprising lipids and proteins that conveys cholesterol, triglycerides, and other fats to different tissues in the body. When there is an excess of LDL cholesterol, which is also known as "bad cholesterol", it can result in the accumulation of fatty deposits within the walls of arteries, potentially causing atherosclerosis and heart disease.

Non-HDL cholesterol

The breakdown of your total cholesterol comprises two primary constituents, namely HDL (good) cholesterol and LDL (bad) cholesterol. However, harmful cholesterol types in your blood extend beyond LDL and encompass VLDL (very low-density lipoproteins) and other lipoproteins that are believed to be even more detrimental than LDL cholesterol. Non-HDL cholesterol is obtained by deducting your HDL cholesterol value from the total cholesterol value. Consequently, it incorporates all the non-protective and potentially harmful cholesterol in your blood, not just LDL. Thus, it is considered a better indicator of cardiovascular risk compared to total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol. The recommended non-HDL cholesterol level is below 4 mmol/L.

HDL cholesterol

HDL cholesterol, or high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, is a substance present in the body that eliminates cholesterol from the bloodstream and carries it to the liver, where it is broken down and then removed from the body via bile. HDL cholesterol is usually referred to as "good cholesterol."

Total cholesterol: HDL

The Total Cholesterol to HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein) ratio is a measure used to assess cardiovascular health. Total cholesterol represents the overall amount of cholesterol in the blood, while HDL cholesterol is considered the "good" cholesterol that helps remove excess cholesterol from the arteries. By calculating the ratio between the two, it provides insights into the balance between "good" and "bad" cholesterol levels. A lower ratio indicates a healthier cardiovascular profile, as it suggests a higher proportion of HDL cholesterol relative to total cholesterol. Monitoring and maintaining an optimal Total Cholesterol to HDL ratio is essential for maintaining heart health and reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Triglycerides

Triglycerides are a type of lipid or fat that are present in the blood. When you eat, your body converts any extra calories, whether from carbohydrates or fat, into triglycerides, which are then carried to cells to be stored as fat. Triglycerides are later released by the body when they are needed for energy.

Liver Health

Bilirubin

Bilirubin is a byproduct of the breakdown of red blood cells' haemoglobin. It is excreted by the liver and stored in the gallbladder before being secreted into the bowel, and ultimately eliminated from the body via urine and faeces. Bilirubin contributes to the yellowish hue of bruises resulting from red blood cell breakdown under the skin.

ALP

Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is an enzyme that is present in the liver, bones, and other tissues. Elevated levels of ALP in the blood can be an indicator of various liver or bone disorders, or a result of certain medications.

ALT

ALT is an enzyme that is present mostly in the liver, and to a lesser extent in the heart, muscles, and kidneys. When the liver is damaged, ALT is released into the bloodstream, making it a useful marker of liver inflammation and potential damage caused by factors such as alcohol, fatty liver, drugs, or viral infections like hepatitis.

Gamma GT

Gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), also known as gamma GT, is an enzyme mainly found in the liver, but also present in the pancreas, spleen, and kidneys. Elevated levels of GGT in the blood can indicate liver or bile duct disease. When used together with ALP, another liver enzyme, GGT can help distinguish between liver and bone disease. GGT is also a useful marker for diagnosing long-term alcohol abuse, as it is often elevated in the blood of heavy drinkers.

Iron Profile

Iron

Iron is a mineral that is necessary for the body to function properly. It is an essential component of haemoglobin, a protein present in red blood cells that transports oxygen throughout the body. Insufficient iron in the body can lead to a decrease in haemoglobin levels and result in symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, and shortness of breath. However, measuring serum iron alone may not provide an accurate picture of iron levels as it can be influenced by the recent intake of iron-rich foods. Therefore, iron is typically evaluated alongside other markers in an iron status test.

TIBC

Total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) is a laboratory test that measures the amount of iron that can be carried by proteins in the blood that bind to iron, such as transferrin. It reflects the body's capacity to bind iron and transport it through the bloodstream to where it is needed.

Transferrin saturation

Transferrin is a protein that binds to iron in the blood and transports it throughout the body. The transferrin saturation test measures the percentage of transferrin that is carrying iron in the blood. This test can help diagnose certain types of anemia, as well as other conditions related to iron metabolism. High transferrin saturation can indicate iron overload, while low transferrin saturation can indicate iron deficiency.

Ferritin

Ferritin is a protein that acts as a storage unit for iron in the body, particularly in the liver, spleen, and bone marrow. Measuring ferritin levels in the blood is a useful way to assess the amount of iron stored in the body, as it reflects the body's overall iron status. Low ferritin levels may indicate iron deficiency, while high ferritin levels may indicate excess iron storage, which can be a sign of certain medical conditions.

Proteins

Globulin

Globulin is a group of proteins synthesized by the liver and the immune system. They have different functions such as binding with haemoglobin, transporting metals like iron, and fighting infections. Immunoglobulins, a type of globulin, are antibodies that play a critical role in the immune system's response to infections.

Total protein

Total Protein is the total amount of protein in the blood, which includes both albumin and globulin. These proteins have several functions such as maintaining blood volume, transporting nutrients, and protecting the body against infection. Abnormal levels of total protein can suggest malnutrition, liver disease, or kidney disease.

Albumin

Albumin is a protein produced mainly by the liver that helps to maintain the osmotic pressure of the blood, keeping water inside the vessels. It also aids in the transport of nutrients, medications, and other substances throughout the body, and is important for tissue growth and repair. Additionally, albumin carries hormones in the blood, and measuring its levels can provide information about the amount of hormone available to the tissues.

Vitamins

Vitamin B-12 Active

Vitamin B12 plays a critical role in the production of red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout the body. It also supports metabolism and the nervous system, and prolonged deficiency of vitamin B12 may lead to nerve damage. While vitamin B12 is predominantly present in animal-based foods, some vegetarian and vegan products, such as plant-based milks, are now fortified with this vitamin.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is a hormone that is primarily synthesized in the skin upon exposure to sunlight. It is important for maintaining bone health as it aids in calcium absorption from the intestines. Apart from this, vitamin D also plays a role in immune function and is associated with various chronic diseases and mental health. In the UK, many people have low levels of vitamin D, which can cause symptoms such as muscle weakness, fatigue, and mood swings. People with dark skin and those who do not spend much time outdoors are particularly at risk of low vitamin D levels. Vitamin D can also be obtained from food, especially oily fish, eggs, and fortified foods. However, food sources may not be sufficient to correct a deficiency in vitamin D.

Vitamin B9 (Folate)

Folate is a type of B vitamin that plays a key role as a coenzyme in the metabolism of amino acids. In addition to this, it is also essential for the synthesis of purines and pyrimidines which are building blocks of DNA and are required for red blood cell formation. Adequate folate levels are particularly important during the early stages of pregnancy, and if you are planning to become pregnant, it is recommended to ensure that your folate levels are normal.

Kidney Health

Urea

Measuring the levels of urea in the blood can give an indication of how well the liver and kidneys are working. Urea is a waste product produced by the liver when it breaks down proteins, and it is transported to the kidneys for filtering and removal from the body in the form of urine. Normal results do not rule out severe kidney damage in one kidney if the other kidney is functioning well

Creatinine

Creatinine is a naturally occurring waste product that forms from normal muscle metabolism. Elevated levels of creatinine may indicate the presence of other waste products in the body. Creatinine is an important marker for assessing kidney function and can aid in the diagnosis of kidney disease.

eGFR

The eGFR, or estimated glomerular filtration rate, is a measurement that evaluates kidney function by estimating the amount of blood filtered by the kidneys. The kidneys contain tiny filters called glomeruli that are responsible for removing waste products from the blood. If these filters fail to work properly, kidney function can be affected. The eGFR is calculated using a person's age, gender, ethnicity, and serum creatinine levels to provide an estimate of their actual glomerular filtration rate.

Diabetes

HbA1c

Haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), also known as glycated haemoglobin, provides a measure of average glucose levels in the blood over a longer period than a simple blood glucose test. When glucose attaches to the haemoglobin in red blood cells, it forms glycated haemoglobin, which can be used to estimate the average level of sugar in the blood over the preceding 2-3 months, as red blood cells have a lifespan of around 12-16 weeks.

Gout profile

Uric Acid

Uric acid is a byproduct of the breakdown of purines, which are chemical compounds found in the body and certain foods. Normally, the kidneys remove uric acid from the body through urine. However, if uric acid levels are too high or if there are issues with purine metabolism, it can accumulate in the body and form crystals, leading to a condition called gout. Gout is a type of arthritis that causes pain, inflammation, and swelling in the joints. High levels of uric acid can also lead to the formation of kidney stones.

Sampling special instructions

Prepare for your Diet and Lifestyle Blood Test by following the instructions contained within your kit. Refrain from engaging in heavy exercise for 48 hours prior to the test. Avoid consuming fatty foods for a minimum of eight hours prior to the test; fasting is not required. It is advisable to take the test before consuming any medication or vitamin/mineral supplements. If you are taking biotin supplements, discontinue their use for two days before the test, and consult with your doctor if they have been prescribed. Similarly, if you are taking vitamin B12 supplements, it is recommended to abstain from taking them for two weeks prior to the test. However, please consult with your doctor regarding any prescribed B12 supplementation and whether you should discontinue it temporarily before the test.