Which blood values should be checked regularly?

If you want to live a longer, healthier and more energetic life – in the sense of longevity – you should keep an eye on your blood values. Blood values are not only indicators of our current health, but can also reveal future risks and help us to take early action.

Large and small blood count – the values of average misery

The classic “large and small blood count” that conventional doctors in Germany like to take in order to tell us “everything is normal” in the best-case scenario, says far too little. Especially if you follow the findings of functional medicine. What is medically presented as “completely normal” is usually nothing more than the average level of misery. It has nothing to do with full performance, mental strength and boundless energy. So if you expect more from life and your health than “normal” or even “okay”, you should look at far more comprehensive and meaningful blood values.

Small blood count

The complete blood count serves as a first point of reference to detect general blood formation disorders, infections, inflammations or coagulation problems. Further examinations, such as a differential blood count or special laboratory values, may be necessary to make a more precise diagnosis.

• Red blood cells (erythrocytes)
• White blood cells (leukocytes)
• Blood platelets (thrombocytes)
• Red blood pigment (hemoglobin)
• MCV (mean red blood cell volume)
• MCH, HbE (mean hemoglobin content per red blood cell)
• MCHC (mean hemoglobin concentration of the total amount of red blood cells)
• Hematocrit (volume percentage of red blood cells in the total blood)

Complete blood count

The complete blood count supplements the complete blood count with a differential blood count, which provides a detailed analysis of the various subgroups of white blood cells (leukocytes). It provides a more comprehensive assessment of the immune system and helps to identify specific causes of infections, inflammation or immune system disorders. Cholesterol, inflammation markers or hormones are therefore not determined in the complete blood count, as many people think.

• Granulocytes:
  • Neutrophils
  • Eosinophils
  • Basophile
• Monocytes
• Lymphocytes

While traditional medicine still predominantly refers to the major and minor blood count, biohackers and longevity physicians such as the Swiss doctor and blood tuning expert Alexander Sahmel take a much more differentiated view. In this guide, we want to highlight some of the most important blood values that should be checked regularly. This list is not intended to be exhaustive. Doctors in the field of functional medicine will always decide on an individual basis what is important and relevant for the individual and their respective state of health. This is called individualized medicine – in contrast to standard blood work.

The blood values of functional medicine

Functional medicine collects a far more comprehensive range of blood values in order to obtain a holistic picture of the individual’s state of health. This comprehensive screening enables the early detection of imbalances or deficiencies that are often overlooked in conventional diagnostics. Dr. Ulrich Strunz, a pioneer in this field, has developed the concept of “blood tuning”. This involves carrying out detailed blood analyses to determine so-called “Froh values” – optimal laboratory values that correlate with increased vitality and vitality. In contrast to the usual reference ranges, which are often based on the average values of a sick population, Dr. Strunz aims to define target values that promote health and vitality. Through the targeted adjustment of nutrient levels, hormones and other biomarkers, individual health goals can be achieved and chronic complaints alleviated. This personalized approach is at the heart of functional medicine and blood tuning according to Dr. Strunz.

Supplementary blood values

1. iron and iron metabolism values

Iron is an essential mineral that plays a central role in the body’s oxygen supply. Checking iron levels can reveal anemia or iron overload.

• Iron
  The iron content in the blood provides information about the body’s iron reserves. A deficiency can lead to tiredness and weakness, while an excess can be harmful to health.
• TIBC (Total Iron Binding Capacity)
  TIBC measures the ability of the blood to bind iron. Elevated values can indicate an iron deficiency, while low values can indicate an iron overload.
• Transferrin saturation
  Transferrin saturation shows how much of the transport protein transferrin is saturated with iron. This measurement helps to assess the iron metabolism in the body.

2. lipid profile

The lipid profile is crucial for assessing cardiovascular risk. It includes various cholesterol and triglyceride values.

• ApoB
  ApoB is a protein that is associated with LDL particles. High levels may indicate an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
• Lp(a)
  Lp(a) is a form of lipoprotein that can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, especially when present in high concentrations.
• Total cholesterol
  The total cholesterol level provides an overview of all types of cholesterol in the blood. A high value can pose a risk of arteriosclerosis.
• HDL (high-density lipoprotein)
  HDL is often referred to as “good” cholesterol as it helps to remove excess cholesterol from the arteries. A high HDL level is desirable
• LDL (low-density lipoprotein)
  LDL is considered “bad” cholesterol as it can build up in the arteries. High LDL levels are a risk factor for heart disease.
• Triglycerides
  Triglycerides are a type of fat in the blood. High levels can indicate an increased risk of heart disease.
• Oxidized LDL
  Oxidized LDL is particularly harmful as it can lead to inflammation and damage to the arterial walls. It is a marker for increased cardiovascular risk.

3. metabolic health profile

A metabolic health profile provides information about the metabolism and the function of organs such as the liver and kidneys. These tests are crucial for the early detection of metabolic disorders.

• Albumin
  Albumin is a protein produced by the liver. It plays a role in fluid balance and in the transportation of hormones and medicines.
• ALT (alanine aminotransferase)
  ALT is an enzyme that is found in the liver. High levels can indicate liver damage or inflammation.
• AST (aspartate aminotransferase)
  AST is another liver enzyme. Elevated values can also indicate liver problems, but also heart or muscle damage.
• GGT (gamma-glutamyltransferase)
  GGT is used to diagnose liver and bile diseases. High values can indicate alcohol abuse or liver disease.
• Creatine kinase
• Creatine kinase is an enzyme that is released when muscles are injured. High levels can indicate muscle or heart disease.
• Sodium
  Sodium is an electrolyte that is important for maintaining fluid balance and nerve function. Abnormal levels may indicate dehydration or kidney problems.
• Potassium
  Potassium is crucial for heart and muscle function. Imbalances can lead to cardiac arrhythmia.
• Calcium
  Calcium is important for bone health and muscle contraction. Abnormal values can indicate hormonal disorders or kidney problems.
• RBC Magnesium
  Magnesium is involved in many biochemical reactions, including muscle and nerve function. Low levels may indicate malnutrition or diabetes.
• HbA1C
  HbA1C measures the average blood glucose level over the last three months. It is an important indicator for diabetes management.
• Glucose
  The blood glucose level provides information about the current sugar balance in the body. High values can indicate diabetes.
• Insulin
  Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. Imbalances can indicate insulin resistance or diabetes.
• Uric acid
  Uric acid is a waste product that is produced during the digestion of purines. High levels can lead to gout or kidney stones.

4. hormone values

Hormonal tests are important to assess the balance of hormones in the body. They can provide insights into stress, reproductive health and metabolism.

• Cortisol
  Cortisol is a stress hormone that influences the metabolism and the immune system. High levels can indicate chronic stress or adrenal problems.
• Testosterone
  Testosterone is a sex hormone that occurs in both men and women. Imbalances can lead to loss of libido or muscle loss.
• Free testosterone
  Free testosterone is the active form of the hormone that is available for tissue function. It is important for the assessment of actual hormone activity.
• Progesterone
  Progesterone is important for the menstrual cycle and pregnancy. Low levels can lead to menstrual irregularities.
• Estradiol
  Estradiol is a major estrogen that affects reproductive and bone health. Imbalances can cause menopausal symptoms or osteoporosis.
• SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin)
  SHBG is a protein that binds sex hormones. It regulates their availability and activity in the body.

5. thyroid values

Thyroid levels are crucial for assessing thyroid function, which controls metabolism and energy production.

• TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone)
  TSH is the hormone that stimulates the thyroid gland to produce hormones. Abnormal values can indicate hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism.
• T3 (triiodothyronine)
  T3 is the active thyroid hormone that regulates the metabolism. Imbalances can lead to metabolic disorders.
• T4 (thyroxine)
  T4 is the precursor of T3 and an indicator of thyroid production. It is converted to T3 in the body.
• rT3 (Reverse T3)
  rT3 is an inactive form of T3 that can be elevated under stress. It can impair the availability of active T3.
• Selenium:
  An antioxidant that supports thyroid function and the immune system.
• Iodine:
  Important for thyroid function and metabolism.

6. vital substance profile

A comprehensive vital substance profile in functional medicine includes a detailed analysis of blood values that assess the supply status of essential nutrients and their effect in the body. Here are the most important blood values that such a profile should include:

Vitamins

• Vitamin D:
  An essential value for assessing bone health, the immune system and general vitality.
• Vitamin B12:
  Important for the function of the nervous system and blood formation. A deficiency can lead to anemia and neurological disorders.
• Folate (vitamin B9):
  Plays a key role in cell division and DNA synthesis. A deficiency can cause anemia and pregnancy complications.
• Vitamin B6:
  Relevant for metabolism and brain function. A deficiency can lead to neurological symptoms.
• Vitamin C:
  A powerful antioxidant that strengthens the immune system and supports collagen production.
• Vitamin A:
  Important for vision, immune function and cell regeneration.
• Vitamin E:
  An antioxidant that prevents cell damage and supports heart health.
• Vitamin K:
  Essential for blood clotting and bone health.

Additional minerals and trace elements

• Zinc:
  Supports immune function, hormone balance and wound healing. A deficiency can weaken the immune system.
• Copper:
  Essential for blood formation, energy metabolism and the nervous system.
• Manganese:
  Involved in bone health and energy metabolism.

Amino acid profile

• Essential amino acids:
  To assess the protein status in the body. A deficiency can impair muscle and organ functions.
• Homocysteine:
  A marker for cardiovascular risks and the status of the B vitamins (B6, B12, folic acid).

Fatty acid profile

• Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids:
  The ratio of these fatty acids is crucial for the regulation of inflammation and heart health.
• Saturated and unsaturated fatty acids:
  Analysis of fatty acid status to assess diet and cardiovascular risk.

Antioxidants

• Glutathione:
  The body’s most important antioxidant. A deficiency can indicate oxidative stress.
• Coenzyme Q10:
  Important for energy production in the cells and as an antioxidant to protect the mitochondria.

Special markers

• hsCRP (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein):
  An inflammation marker that indicates chronic inflammation.

Blood values & prevention

Regularly checking blood values is not only a means of diagnosing existing illnesses, but also a preventative tool to promote holistic health. Deviations in blood values can indicate potential health risks at an early stage, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes or hormonal imbalances. A comprehensive understanding of these values makes it possible to develop targeted prevention strategies. Regular checks make it possible to identify health problems at an early stage and take timely action. This can be done through lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments or drug interventions.

Important: This list does not claim to be exhaustive. The trick will always be to analyze a close-meshed network of individually relevant blood values in order to interpret them with the appropriate specialist knowledge and draw conclusions about illnesses or health potential.

Book tip

Blood – The secrets of our “liquid organ”: Key to Healing Paperback – January 11, 2016 by Ulrich Strunz (Author)