Lab Test Glossary

A comprehensive guide to understanding common lab tests and their significance for your health journey.

As a health coach, I can't order blood work, but I can help you understand your results if you already have them.

Lab/Test Name Description
Hemoglobin A marker of oxygen-carrying capacity in red blood cells. Supports energy levels, tissue repair, and circulation.
Vitamin D A hormone-like vitamin essential for immune health, mood, bone density, and hormone regulation.
MCV (Mean Corpuscular Volume) Measures the size of red blood cells. Helps assess B12 and folate status.
Eosinophils A type of white blood cell that rises with allergies, inflammation, or parasites.
Vitamin B12 Supports nerve health, red blood cell production, and energy metabolism.
Ferritin Reflects stored iron. Important for oxygen transport, energy, and hair health.
CRP (C-reactive protein) An inflammation marker linked to chronic disease risk.
Total Cholesterol A mix of good and bad cholesterol that reflects cardiovascular risk.
LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein) "Bad" cholesterol that contributes to plaque buildup in arteries.
HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein) "Good" cholesterol that helps remove LDL from the bloodstream. Also an important building block for hormones.
Triglycerides A form of fat in the blood tied to metabolic health. Often reflects carbohydrate intake, processed foods, or excess calories.
Total Cholesterol to HDL Ratio A risk marker for cardiovascular disease. Lower is better.
Fasting Insulin Reflects how your body manages blood sugar and risk for insulin resistance.
HbA1c (Hemoglobin A1c) A 3-month average of blood sugar control.
LH to FSH Ratio A marker of ovulatory function and potential PCOS when elevated.
FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone) Regulates ovarian function and egg development. Helps assess menstrual cycle phase, fertility, and ovarian reserve.
Female Estradiol A form of estrogen needed for menstrual regularity, bone density, and mood.
Female Total Testosterone Essential for libido, energy, and mood. High levels may suggest PCOS.
TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) A central thyroid marker.
ESR (Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate) Measures general inflammation in the body.
Male Total Testosterone Important for muscle mass, libido, energy, and mood.
Male Free Testosterone The active form of testosterone available to cells.
ALT & AST (Liver Enzymes) Reflect liver health and detox capacity.
Free T4 An "inactive" thyroid hormone that reflects the raw hormone available for conversion to active T3.
Free T3 The active thyroid hormone. Drives metabolism, energy, and body temperature regulation.
Reverse T3 An inactive form of T3 that can block active T3. High levels may signal stress or poor conversion.