Lately, scientific breakthroughs in understanding the unique differences in a person’s genetic makeup and metabolism have made visiting diet labs increasingly popular. In a recent paper published by researchers at the University of Tennessee in the journal Obesity, a number of genetic markers that influence weight loss were identified. It is believed that, in the near future, DNA samples and sensors similar to today’s FitBit and other lifestyle tracking devices will allow doctors to customize a special diet plan unique for the individual.
For now though, diet labs offer a number of tests to help people understand their current health condition and be better informed about what proactive steps can be followed to lose weight and become healthier.
What Tests do Diet Labs Offer?
Right now, there is no standardized legal description of a “diet lab”, so every facility offers different diet testing. Some of the tests currently available from diet labs include:
- CBC – Otherwise known as a “Complete Blood Count,” this common test will measure the functioning of your immune system, as well as the oxygen levels in your body. The test can reveal certain forms of malnutrition, including anemia, as well as the presence of inflammation in cell tissues, which can be linked to the consumption of certain types of food and drinks.
- Comprehensive Metabolic Panel – This full-spectrum test of your blood will reveal important insights into how your kidneys and liver are functioning. Your blood glucose levels will also be measured, which can reveal the presence of diabetes or an elevated risk of contracting Type II diabetes. Thyroid and other metabolic disorders can also be identified with this test, as well as abnormally low Vitamin D and/or calcium levels.
- Ketones – This test will measure the number of ketones in your urine. High levels can indicate the presence of diabetes or an excess of high glycemic index foods in your diet.
- Liver Panel – When people are obese, there is a strong correlation between high enzyme levels produced by the kidney. This test can also identify long-term damage to the kidneys.
- Serum Iron – This test measures the level of iron in your blood. Low levels may indicate anemia, iron deficiency due to dietary or other causes, as well as other forms of malnutrition.
- Lipid Profile – This is the test that measures the various forms of cholesterol in your blood, an important marker for tracking and monitoring your overall health.
- Serum Magnesium – This test can identify problems related to a loss of magnesium which can occur due to malnutrition, the consumption of diuretics (which include “water pills”), and excessive use of laxatives.
- Serum Phosphorous – Consuming too many diuretic drinks (which includes soft drinks, coffee, and tea) can lead to low calcium levels. High levels of phosphorous in the bloodstream can result from overusing common antacid products.
- Amylase Test – Performed on urine samples, the amylase test can reveal damage to the pancreas and/or salivary glands.
- Thyroid Panel – This test can reveal problems with the thyroid gland, including hypothyroidism (low levels of hormones produced by the thyroid glands). The thyroid is the “control center” of the body’s metabolic function, and can play a key role in difficulty losing weight.
- Transthyretin – Also referred to sometimes as prealbumin test, this can reveal certain deficiencies in the liver and the thyroid glands, as well as some forms of malnutrition.
It is also recommended that anyone visiting a diet lab get a standard check-up where vital signs are measured. These include blood pressure, pulse rate, and your temperature. Abnormal vital signs may indicate a fever, inflammation, dehydration and issues relating to blood pressure .
How Much Do Tests at a Diet Lab Cost?
Every diet lab charges different prices for their services. The tests listed above require just a small blood sample and/or urine sample but many diet labs send their blood work and/or urinalysis work to a third-party laboratory. In some cases, these tests may be covered by existing health insurance. Always check with your insurance provider for the exact details about which tests have partial or complete coverage.
Interpreting Your Diet Lab Results
The internet is replete with advice about how to interpret the results of your diet lab work but only a medical professional or nutritionist can give you an accurate diagnosis of the current state of your health. Working with the results of your diet lab tests, you and your nutritionist or healthcare professional can then develop a diet and exercise routine to help you succeed in losing weight and enjoying a healthier life.