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 a comprehensive metabolic panel can help you 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
Metabolism and healthy aging
Metabolism plays a crucial role in the aging process and overall health as we grow older. As we age, our metabolism naturally slows down, which can lead to various changes in our body composition, energy levels and overall health. However, research suggests that understanding and optimizing your metabolism may contribute significantly to healthy aging.
Maintaining a healthy metabolism is essential for several reasons. It helps regulate weight, preserve muscle mass and support efficient energy production. A well-functioning metabolism can also contribute to better blood sugar control, improved cardiovascular health and enhanced cognitive function.
By adopting lifestyle habits that support metabolic health (e.g., regular exercise, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, stress management), you can potentially slow down age-related metabolic decline, promote healthier aging and reduce your risk of metabolic health issues.
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 about the function 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 comprehensive metabolic panel?
A CMP blood test measures levels of key substances that can provide insights into your metabolism:
- Glucose (i.e., blood sugar): An important marker for diabetes, which indicates high blood sugar levels
- Electrolytes: Imbalances in electrolytes like sodium can affect hydration, blood pressure, nerve and muscle function
- Kidney function: Abnormal levels may indicate kidney disease
- Liver enzymes: Elevated levels of enzymes like alkaline phosphatase can signal liver inflammation or damage
- Proteins: Measuring proteins like albumin, as well as protein waste products like blood urea nitrogen (BUN), can provide insights about liver and kidney function
Take charge of your metabolic health
Chronic 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.
Six in 10 U.S. adults have a chronic disease, and 4 in 10 have two or more chronic conditions. 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.
