A few years ago I visited a functional medicine doctor. And he suggested some biomarker testing. In particular, a blood test, known as the A1C or HA1C. Because he wanted to take a closer look at what might be going on in my blood.
Of course, after the recent turn of events in my health, I recalled some of the results and thought it would be interesting to look at them again now. Here’s what I shared from almost 10 years ago.
~ The doctor went over my results with me, and I guess I failed to stay within preferred levels for pretty much all of the 5 main biomarkers he recommends monitoring. I’ll share those markers with you, what their levels should be, and what mine were.
My biomarker testing results included these:
- Homocysteine: This is now the gold standard, for many doctors, as a means for judging whether or not someone is at risk for cardiovascular disease and incidents. Healthy levels should show up in your results between 4-8 umol/L (symbol for micromole) When your levels fall within that range you may consider yourself fortunate and possibly healthy. My level was 17.8
- CRP (C-reactive protein): This is a protein produced in the liver, and it’s associated with inflammation. Truly healthy levels should fall between 0 mg/L and 0.5 mg/L – That’s not much of a range because it should ideally show up as 0. My level was 1.53
- Vitamin D: It’s so cool how your body actually converts cholesterol derivatives into Vitamin D. Take note…your body creates cholesterol, and here’s one of the main reasons why. Healthy levels of Vitamin D (which is actually a hormone by the way) should show up right around 50 ng/ml. And the bare minimum recommended by almost all doctors is 30 ng/ml. My level was 20.7
- Hemoglobin AC1 (HA1C or A1C): This indicates how much glycosolation is going on in your blood. And that’s all about sugar binding to proteins. Most standard testers say you’re OK in the range between 4.8%-5.6%. My doctor says he gets “nervous over 5.4%”. My level was 5.6%…not outlandish, but combined with my other high levels…not good.
- Fasting Insulin: This has everything to do with insulin regulation. And while many labs say a level lower than 25 mIU/L is OK, some others say you shouldn’t go above 8. Another source says an ideal decent range is between 2 and 5. My level was 100.
OK…I failed the 5 biomarkers.
So, I’m in trouble. But does being in trouble mean you throw your hands in the air and give up? Certainly not. What you do is find out the adjustments you need to make in your lifestyle, emotions, and diet…then make those adjustments. And for a Christian, the primary response should be to ask God for wisdom and discernment. And for strength to follow through. I’ve done that, and I’m continuing to do that. I’m also fortunate to have a beautiful health coach living with me…my wife.
What about you? Have you gone through any biomarker testing lately? ~
Yes, I made some healthier lifestyle choices. But I also dealt with some environmental and genetic issues. The environmental issues caused respiratory problems which weakened my body’s ability to fight off problems. And the main genetic issue has been a deformed heart and erratic heartbeat. And, according to doctors who looked me over last month, the erratic heartbeat, led to atrial fibrillation. And they believe that led to the stroke.
So what does it all mean?
Basically that no matter what you do you’re doomed. Just kidding. Sort of. Yeah, the truth of the matter is somethings gonna get ya. So here’s what I suggest. Don’t let it be negativity. Don’t let it be stress. And don’t let it get you before you get right with your Maker. Because no matter what bad stuff you gotta go through in this life, none of it would even remotely compare to eternal torment in hell. And the good news is not even your predetermined genetics can force you into hell.
The Last Word
Keep a bolt of lightning in your brain
And a jar of honey in your heart.
Let love be the last word from your lips
Whether you’re together or apart.
Lightning is your passion over pain.
Honey is your holy hope within.
Send those feelings through your fingertips
And remember, always let love win.
© 2020 Tony Funderburk
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