Nutri-check

Iron is essential for the production of haemoglobin within red blood cells. Low iron levels can lead to iron deficiency anaemia and feelings of fatigue.

HDL (high-density lipoprotein) is known as 'good cholesterol' as it picks up excess cholesterol in your blood and transports it to your liver for removal. The higher your levels of HDL the lower the risk of developing heart disease.

This is a measurement of the % of HDL a a proportion of total cholesterol.

LDL (low-density lipoprotein) carries cholesterol from your liver to tissues and organs around your body. If you body has more cholesterol than it needs, it can build up on the artery walls. LDL is therefore known as 'bad cholesterol'.

Total cholesterol can be used to assess the risk of cardiovascular disease. Measurement is calculated using different cholesterol components known as HDL, LDL and triglycerides.

Triglyceride is the body's main form of fat. It is important for maintaining energy and provides the fuel for muscles to work. High levels can increase your risk of heart disease.

ALB (Albumin) is a protein which is made in the liver. It has many roles including the transporting of key molecules such as testosterone and calcium throughout the blood. The amount of albumin in the blood is directly associated with liver function and nutritional health.  It is also used as a marker in the assessment of bone health.

HbA1c provides an average reading of your blood sugar levels over a period of 2-3 months.  It is therefore a better indicator of pre-diabetes than a fasting glucose test which measures the level of glucose in your blood at a single point in time. High levels puts you more at risk of gaining weight, high blood pressure, heart disease and diabetes.

Vitamin B12 together with folate are both part of the B group of complex vitamins. They are not produced by the body so have to be absorbed through diet. B12 is required for the formation of red blood cells and also has a role to play in nerve health.  

Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the body and is mainly stored in the bones and teeth, keeping them strong and healthy.

Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the body and is mainly stored in the bones and teeth, keeping them strong and healthy.

Ferritin is a protein in the body which contains iron and is the main form by which iron is stored in the body. The amount of ferritin which is found in the blood reflects the amount of total iron stored within your body.

Folate is supplied to the body through diet. It is required for the production of healthy red blood cells and the repair of tissues.

Iron is essential for the production of haemoglobin within red blood cells. Low iron levels can lead to iron deficiency anaemia and feelings of fatigue.

Magnesium is critical for many processes in the body and plays a key role in the maintenance of strong bones, blood pressure regulation, muscle contraction and energy production.

Vitamin D helps to regulate calcium and phosphate in the body which is essential for the development of healthy bones. It therefore plays an essential role in preserving bone health but has also been linked to many other aspects of health including our immune system, muscle function, energy levels and the reduction of inflammation. Unfortunately, due to the UK weather, many people have low levels particularly during the winter months.