Health Glossary
Understand your biomarkers and lab values
ALP (Alkaline Phosphatase)
A liver and bone enzyme. Elevated levels indicate liver disease or bone disorders.
ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase)
A liver-specific enzyme that indicates liver cell damage. The most sensitive marker for liver injury.
AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase)
A liver enzyme that can indicate liver damage or disease. Also found in heart and muscle tissue.
Bilirubin
A yellow pigment from red blood cell breakdown. Elevated levels indicate liver disease or red blood cell disorders.
BUN (Blood Urea Nitrogen)
A measure of nitrogen waste in your blood. Used to assess kidney function and hydration status.
Creatinine
A waste product from muscle metabolism that your kidneys filter out. Used to assess kidney function.
CRP (C-Reactive Protein)
A marker of inflammation in the body. Used to assess infection, autoimmune conditions, and cardiovascular risk.
eGFR (Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate)
A blood test that estimates how well your kidneys filter waste from your blood. The key marker for kidney function.
Ferritin
A protein that stores iron in your body. The best marker for assessing your iron reserves.
Free T4 (Free Thyroxine)
The active form of thyroid hormone available to your cells. Essential for diagnosing and managing thyroid conditions.
Glucose (Blood Sugar)
A blood test measuring the amount of sugar in your blood. Essential for detecting diabetes and monitoring metabolic health.
HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin)
A blood test that measures your average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months. Essential for diabetes management and prevention.
Hematocrit
The percentage of your blood volume made up of red blood cells. Used to diagnose anemia and polycythemia.
Hemoglobin
The oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells. Low levels indicate anemia; high levels may signal dehydration or other conditions.
PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen)
A protein produced by the prostate gland. Used to screen for prostate cancer and monitor prostate health in men.
Total Cholesterol
A measure of all cholesterol types in your blood. An important but incomplete marker for cardiovascular health.
Triglycerides
A type of fat in your blood that provides energy. High levels increase cardiovascular risk.
TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone)
The primary screening test for thyroid function. Elevated TSH indicates hypothyroidism, while low TSH suggests hyperthyroidism.
Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin)
An essential vitamin for nerve function, DNA synthesis, and red blood cell formation. Deficiency is common and often missed.
Vitamin D (25-hydroxyvitamin D)
A fat-soluble vitamin essential for bone health, immune function, and mood. Commonly deficient in populations with limited sun exposure.
White Blood Cells (WBC / Leukocytes)
The immune system's frontline defense. White blood cells fight infections and respond to inflammation.