Preventive Health Check

The enzyme ALT is mainly found in the cells of the liver and in smaller amounts within the kidneys, heart and muscle tissue. If the liver is damaged, blood ALT levels can increase. When the drainage of bile fluid is obstructed, blood ALT levels can also rise.

Cholesterol is produced in the liver and is found in every cell of the body. There are two types of cholesterol: one in the form of HDL (high-density cholesterol) and LDL (low-density cholesterol). HDL is also referred to as the ‘good’ cholesterol and LDL is known as the ‘bad’ cholesterol. An elevated cholesterol level is defined as total cholesterol above 6.5 mmol / l.

Creatinin ist ein Abfallprodukt, das beim normalen Abbau vom Muskelgewebe entsteht. Erhöhte Kreatininwerte weisen auf eine eingeschränkte Nierenfunktion oder eine Nierenerkrankung hin. Wenn die Nieren beeinträchtigt sind, steigt der Kreatininspiegel im Blut aufgrund der schlechten Ausscheidung von Kreatinin durch die Nieren.

eGFR stands for estimated glomerular filtration rate. This value is derived using the amount of creatinine in the blood and indicates how well the kidneys are functioning. An elevated EGFR means that the filtration abilities of the kidneys are lowered, which may indicate impaired kidney function. Poor kidney function can be caused by kidney infections, kidney stones, high blood pressure, diabetes, dehydration, or certain medications.

Ferritin is a protein that stores iron. This allows your body to use iron when it needs it. The body needs iron for the production of hemoglobin. Hemoglobin carries oxygen in your blood from your lungs to the rest of your body. If your ferritin levels are low, it can be a sign of iron deficiency. In severe cases, or left untreated, this can lead to anemia – a reduced level of hemoglobin or red blood cells.

Folic acid is a vitamin that your body cannot make on its own. While most people obtain enough folic acid by eating a varied diet, folic acid deficiency is one of the most common vitamin deficiencies in developed countries. Folic acid is mainly found in green vegetables, fruits and whole grains, but also in milk products. Common symptoms of folic acid deficiency are a loss of appetite, weight loss and/or fatigue. Pregnant women who are deficient in folic acid during early pregnancy are also at a higher risk of having a baby with neural tube defects.

Gamma-glutamyltransferase (Gamma-GT or GGT) is an enzyme made in the liver that helps convert and digest substances that enter the body through food and drink. Normally the concentration of GGT in the blood is very low, but can become elevated when the liver is overloaded. This happens when the liver must process a high quantity of certain substances in a short period of time, for example with excessive use of certain medications or alcohol. GGT values will also rise when the bile ducts are blocked, with gallbladder problems, or as a result of liver damage. The oral contraceptive pill can cause a decrease in GGT.

The term HbA1c stands for ‘hemoglobin A1c’, or glycated hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is a protein found in red blood cells, giving them their color. Hemoglobin in blood carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. Glucose (sugar) in the blood can also attach to hemoglobin, known as glycated hemoglobin. This means that the more glucose there is in the blood, the more glycated hemoglobin there is. Because red blood cells (and therefore also hemoglobin in the red blood cells) live for a maximum of 120 days, an HbA1c value provides insight into the average blood glucose level over the past 10 to 12 weeks. The higher the glucose level has been during the period of time before the test, the higher the HbA1c value will be.

HDL stands for High-Density Lipoprotein, which is a type of lipoprotein found in the blood. It is often referred to as "good cholesterol" because it helps remove other types of cholesterol from the bloodstream. This helps to prevent the buildup of excess cholesterol in the arteries, reducing the risk of atherosclerosis (hardening and narrowing of the arteries) and cardiovascular diseases. Having higher levels of HDL in the blood is generally considered beneficial for heart health, as it helps to counteract the negative effects of LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein) cholesterol, often referred to as "bad cholesterol." Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and not smoking can help increase HDL levels.

LDL stands for Low-Density Lipoprotein and is often referred to as "bad cholesterol" because elevated levels of LDL can lead to the buildup of cholesterol in the arteries. When there is excess LDL in the bloodstream, it can deposit cholesterol on the arterial walls, forming plaques. Over time, this can narrow and block the arteries, a condition known as atherosclerosis, which increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases like heart attacks and strokes. High LDL levels are often associated with an unhealthy diet, lack of exercise, smoking, and other factors related to an unhealthy lifestyle. Lowering LDL cholesterol through lifestyle changes, medications, or a combination of both can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases and improve overall heart health.

Triglycerides are a type of fat found in the blood. They are the most common form of fat in the human body and serve as a source of energy for various bodily functions. When you eat, your body converts the calories it doesn't need into triglycerides, which are then stored in fat cells. Between meals, hormones release triglycerides for energy, ensuring a continuous supply of fuel for various metabolic processes. While triglycerides are essential for normal body function, elevated levels can pose health risks. Elevated triglycerides, along with high LDL cholesterol and low HDL cholesterol, are considered risk factors for cardiovascular diseases. Lifestyle changes, including adopting a healthy diet, regular exercise, and weight management, can help maintain triglyceride levels within a healthy range and reduce the risk of cardiovascular problems.

Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in various bodily processes. It is essential for the production of red blood cells, DNA synthesis, and proper functioning of the nervous system. The human body cannot produce vitamin B12 on its own, so it must be obtained from dietary sources or supplements. Vitamin B12 is naturally found in animal products such as meat, fish, eggs, and dairy. People who do not eat animal products may be at risk of vitamin B12 deficiency, as plant-based foods generally do not contain sufficient amounts of this vitamin. A vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to anemia, fatigue, neurological problems, and other health issues. Common symptoms of B12 deficiency include weakness, tingling or numbness in the hands and feet, memory problems, and difficulty with balance.