Your metabolism is the engine that powers your body's basic functions. It converts the food you eat into energy and nutrients your cells need. A well-oiled metabolic machine keeps your body humming along smoothly. But when pieces of the intricate web of chemical reactions go awry, it can lead to potential health risks. Here’s a look at what your metabolism does, what happens when metabolic function is off and how you can use it to monitor your health:
What is metabolism, and why is it important?
Metabolism refers to all the chemical processes continuously taking place throughout your body and in each of your cells that generate the energy needed to keep you alive and your organs functioning. These include:
- Breaking down nutrients from food and drink into molecules your body can absorb
- Eliminating toxic waste products and byproducts through urine, stool and sweat
Health issues related to metabolic function
It’s possible for your metabolism to become overwhelmed, leading to a variety of potential health issues related to weight, energy, blood sugar, organ function, cholesterol, nutrients and hormones.
Monitoring key markers through a test like Labcorp OnDemand’s Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) test allows early detection of abnormalities and provides information on the status of two key organs in metabolism, your liver and kidneys.
When reviewed with a healthcare provider, a CMP test can help detect certain health conditions like diabetes, kidney disease and liver inflammation in their early stages. This allows you to get ahead of bigger problems before they progress.
What is a metabolic panel?
A CMP blood test measures levels of key substances that can provide insights into your metabolism:
- Blood sugar: An important marker for diabetes, which indicates high blood sugar levels
- Electrolytes: Imbalances can affect hydration, blood pressure, nerve and muscle function
- Kidney function: Abnormal levels may indicate kidney disease
- Liver enzymes: Elevated levels can signal liver inflammation or damage
- Blood fats like cholesterol and triglycerides: High levels increase risk of heart disease and stroke
Take charge of your metabolic health
Health issues related to metabolism often don't cause noticeable symptoms until they progress over time. Getting a CMP blood test could help you and your provider catch problems in the earliest, most treatable stages.
6 in 10 U.S. adults have a chronic disease and 4 in 10 have two or more, but some of these conditions can be prevented or managed through lifestyle changes like eating healthy, staying active, limiting alcohol and not smoking.
Knowledge is power when it comes to your health. Don't wait for symptoms to appear. Take proactive steps today to understand your metabolic health and take control of your wellbeing.
Want to learn more about your health? Get answers to your health questions by purchasing a test through Labcorp OnDemand today.
