Complete Blood Test List to Optimize your Health and Wellness

Complete Blood Test List to Optimize Your Health and Wellness

Print this list and bring it to your physician after reading through it. This guide is designed to help you and your healthcare provider communicate better and work together to optimize your health.

When it comes to your health, knowledge is power. The following 1,361 words might be one of the most valuable pieces of content you’ll read this year. My hope is that this information empowers you to take a proactive approach to your wellness.

If you’ve been following me for a while, you already know how strongly I advocate for the importance of regular blood work. Personally, I get mine done 2-3 times a year, depending on my training phase, nutrition plan, and overall goals. Why? Because our internal systems are deeply connected to our energy levels, sleep quality, mental health, weight management, and even our ability to live a long, healthy life.

Life is dynamic, and the way you feel today might not be the way you feel tomorrow. Stress, dietary changes, and aging all influence your body’s systems, making regular blood work an essential tool for staying on top of your health.

Why Blood Work & Tests Matter

The phrase, “It’s not a problem until it’s a problem,” resonates deeply with many of us. Often, we wait until symptoms arise before seeking help. However, subtle changes in your blood work can serve as early warning signs, giving you the opportunity to address potential issues before they become significant.

By understanding your baseline and regularly monitoring key markers, you can adopt a proactive approach to your health, rather than reacting to problems when they appear. Think of blood work as a map—it provides the data you need to navigate your health journey effectively.

Live Longer and a Life Filled with Wellness

My Mission for You

My goal has always been to help you live the healthiest, longest, and most fulfilling life possible. This post is just one step in that journey. To maximize its impact, I encourage you to share it with others, take notes, and use it as a conversation starter with your physician.

For convenience, I’m considering creating a downloadable PDF version of this list to make it easier for you to reference during appointments.

Maximize Communication With Your Doctor

Getting Started: Communicating with Your Doctor

  1. Review This List Prior
    Prior to contacting your Dr and making an appointment to be seen. You being familiar with each test, its value and role in your health with command the Dr’s attention at the same time help you understand and ask further questions when speaking to your Dr.

  2. Request the Full Panel:
    When you approach your doctor, let them know you’re looking to establish a comprehensive baseline. If they suggest you don’t need certain tests, ask for an explanation and take notes for your records.

  3. Weigh the Costs:
    Some tests might not be covered by insurance. Use this information to plan your next visit and determine which tests are most valuable for your current health goals.

  4. Take Notes:
    Document your conversation with your doctor, including their feedback on each test. This will help you track your progress and build a clear understanding of your health over time.

Disclaimer & Transparency

A Disclaimer

I am not a licensed healthcare professional – nor do I imply to be one. I am a guy that wants you to live the life you want. I’ve managed my blood work extensively over the years and have learned the importance of consistency, tracking, and understanding the data. Blood work is one tool among many in my approach to health, alongside habits, nutrition, and exercise.

That said, always consult with licensed professionals—ideally those who specialize in patients with similar demographics, lifestyles, and goals as you. I personally have three professionals review my blood work annually to ensure a well-rounded perspective.

Optimizing Your Blood Work Results

How to Optimize Your Blood Work Results

  • Get Results Ahead of Time:
    Before your appointment, review your blood work and research any outlier numbers. Write down specific questions you want your healthcare provider to address.

  • Allocate Enough Time:
    During your appointment, ensure you have at least 30 minutes to discuss your results in detail. Push for clarity on all markers, not just the ones flagged as “concerning.”

  • Seek Multiple Opinions:
    Having multiple professionals review your results allows for a more comprehensive understanding. Consistencies, inconsistencies, and potential solutions will be easier to identify.

Blood Test Request Breakdown

20 Essential Blood Tests to Check Every Year

 

1. Full Blood Count (FBC)

Purpose: Evaluates red and white blood cells and platelets.
Reveals: Anemia, infections, and overall blood health.
Importance: Helps identify conditions like iron deficiency, immune issues, or blood disorders early on.
 
2. Lipid Profile with LDL/HDL Ratio
Purpose: Measures cholesterol and triglycerides levels.
Reveals: Risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular conditions.
Importance: Helps you monitor and manage cholesterol levels to prevent heart-related complications. Heart Health
 
3. HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin)
Purpose: Assesses average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months.
Reveals: Diabetes or prediabetes.
Importance: Essential for early detection and management of diabetes, a major risk factor for heart and metabolic diseases.
 
4. Thyroid Function Tests (TFTs)
Purpose: Checks TSH, T3, and T4 hormones.
Reveals: Hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, or other thyroid dysfunctions.
Importance: Thyroid health impacts metabolism, energy levels, and overall hormonal balance.
 
5. Liver Function Tests (LFTs)
Purpose: Analyzes liver enzymes, bilirubin, and proteins.
Reveals: Liver damage, infections, fatty liver disease, or issues with bile production.
Importance: The liver plays a crucial role in detoxifying the body and processing nutrients.
 
6. Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP-14)
Purpose: Assesses glucose, electrolytes, kidney function, and liver enzymes.
Reveals: Issues with metabolic health, liver, or kidney function.
Importance: Provides a broad overview of your body’s chemical balance.
– this test covers a lot and can be overlap on others, ask which other tests on this are included in this test.
 
7. Vitamin D
Purpose: Measures levels of this essential nutrient.
Reveals: Deficiency linked to bone health issues, immune dysfunction, and mood disorders.
Importance: Vital for bone strength, immune health, and mood regulation.
 
8. B12 and Folate
Purpose: Measures levels of these critical vitamins.
Reveals: Deficiency causing fatigue, nerve damage, or anemia.
Importance: Necessary for nerve health, red blood cell production, and DNA synthesis.
 
9. Iron Profile (Ferritin & Iron)
Purpose: Examines iron levels in the blood.
Reveals: Iron deficiency, anemia, or overload.
Importance: Iron is essential for oxygen transport in the blood and energy production.
 
10. Inflammatory Markers (CRP & ESR)
Purpose: Detects inflammation in the body.
Reveals: Chronic inflammation, autoimmune conditions, or infections.
Importance: Chronic inflammation is a precursor to many diseases, including heart disease and cancer.
 
11. C-Reactive Protein (CRP)
Purpose: A specific test for inflammation.
Reveals: Risk of heart disease, infection, or chronic inflammatory conditions.
Importance: High levels are associated with increased cardiovascular risk.
 
12. Cardiac Estradiol
Purpose: Measures levels of estradiol, a form of estrogen.
Reveals: Hormonal imbalances affecting heart health, especially in women.
Importance: Estradiol can impact vascular health and heart disease risk.
 
13. Apolipoprotein B (ApoB)
Purpose: Evaluates ApoB, a component of LDL cholesterol.
Reveals: Advanced cardiovascular risk assessment.
Importance: ApoB levels are a more precise predictor of heart disease than LDL alone.
 
14. Prolactin
Purpose: Measures levels of this hormone produced by the pituitary gland.
Reveals: Hormonal imbalances related to reproductive health, thyroid function, or pituitary issues.
Importance: Elevated levels can signal underlying disorders.
 
15. DHEA-Sulfate
Purpose: Assesses adrenal gland function by measuring DHEA-S, a precursor to sex hormones.
Reveals: Adrenal fatigue, stress levels, or hormonal imbalances.
Importance: Balances energy, stress, and hormone health.
 
16. TSH (Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone)
Purpose: Assesses thyroid function specifically through TSH levels.
Reveals: Hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.
Importance: Regulates metabolism and energy levels.
 
17. IGF-1 (Insulin-like Growth Factor 1)
Purpose: Measures levels of IGF-1, a hormone linked to growth and metabolism.
Reveals: Growth hormone activity, potential pituitary dysfunction, or aging-related changes.
Importance: Helps assess metabolism, muscle health, and overall growth hormone function.
 
18. Hormonal Testing (Testosterone, Estrogen, Progesterone)
Purpose: Evaluates reproductive hormones.
Reveals: Hormonal imbalances affecting mood, metabolism, fertility, or aging.
Importance: Key for addressing symptoms of hormonal imbalance like fatigue, weight gain, or low libido.
 
19. Cortisol (Adrenal Function)
Purpose: Measures the stress hormone cortisol.
Reveals: Adrenal gland dysfunction or chronic stress levels.
Importance: Chronic stress can lead to burnout, immune suppression, and hormonal imbalance.
– to me the DUTCH Cortisol Test is the Gold standard. – most other cortisol have been found as not as nearly reliable. BUT DCT does take a bit of time to get results.
 
20. Cancer Markers (PSA, CA125, Alpha-Fetoprotein)
Purpose: Detects specific markers related to cancers.
Reveals: PSA (prostate cancer), CA125 (ovarian cancer), alpha-fetoprotein (liver cancer).
Importance: Early detection can significantly improve treatment outcomes for cancer.
 
Edit: honorable mention get your  MAGNESIUM levels checked as many people are deficient – GO OUTSIDE
 
2025 will be a year of WELLNESS – living well for you.
 
You are going to marketing to, to live with optimization and vitality. There will be many ways and tools to do that. I strongly suggest you add in self assessments(and accepting them) bloodwork, habit and pattern building, staying away from hacks and trends. You have a full year in 2025 not 21, 30, 60, 90 days to look, feel and live well.
 

Blood Work is a Tool Not the Solution

Final Thoughts

Blood work is not just about numbers; it’s about creating a roadmap for your health. While this list is comprehensive, it’s just a starting point. Tailor it to your specific needs and goals, and don’t hesitate to seek guidance from professionals who understand your unique lifestyle.

Your health is your responsibility, but it’s also a collaborative effort with your healthcare team. Advocate for yourself, stay informed, and commit to the habits and systems that will keep you feeling your best.

If this post resonates with you, share it with others who could benefit. Let’s work together to make proactive health a standard practice, not an exception.


Remember: This blog is meant for informational purposes only. Always consult with a licensed professional before making any changes to your health routine.

Prioritizing Your Health

Questions in my head this morning about prioritizing your health.

Do you think your health is important or do you feel because you are not sick you are ok?

Is the idea of repairing your health with a quick simple plan?

Do you think fixing a health-related issue is going to Doctor?

When should you address your health issues?  Before or after they cause problems?

Do you think being healthy is difficult? Causes you too much stress?

Do you worry about being cool or trendy over prioritizing your health is not cool or trendy?

If being healthy is a priority what would have to change, what would it take for you to be healthy? What would you have to do?

What is YOUR definition of being healthy and fit?

This is how my brain works in the morning and all day. I guess that is why I live the way I do and focused on my business, my income, and helping others around health. I ask myself these questions, I wonder how others would answer them, and I wonder how I can help others with their answers.

Get healthy people
Stay healthy people.

No one can do it for you. You have to do it.  The key to prioritizing your health is all about finding solutions!

I share more of my thoughts on this topic on my podcast.  Check out my podcast titled “Making the Idea of Becoming Healthy Stick and Stay!

Apple Podcast

Spotify Podcast

 

Small Deposits Daily Leads to Monumental Progress

momentum
Small deposits in your health pension can pay monumental dividends to live a long life. 
What were your first thoughts when you read that? Stick with me while I share my thoughts on this statement.
I find one of the hardest things people struggle a healthy life is cost.
It costs time, effort, opportunities, money, emotions, etc. I watch far too many people not willing to pay that cost of health and would rather pay with the mental weight of battling internal pain.
I get it, there is a price to pay.  As we contemplate our health’s value in pain, there are people using that time actually to work on their health.
No system is perfect.
No product is the best, but if you don’t start, you have no ability to gain momentum, progress, and evolve.
Small deposits in your health pension can pay monumental dividends to live a long life, and it must be done daily!
Don’t get caught saying “I wish I would have”
If you are ready to start making those steps toward momentum, progress, and evolving, connect with me here
Check out my podcast titled The Free vs a Cost Conversation in Wellness Today.