Navigating Lab Tests on a Plant-Based Diet

Dr. Laurie Marbas Podcast

I'm excited to share insights on essential lab tests for those following a plant-based diet. In this episode, I discuss the importance of various tests and what they reveal about your health. Key Lab Tests to Monitor Complete Blood Count (CBC): White Blood Cells: Low levels can indicate low inflammation, common in strict whole food plant-based diets. Red Blood Cells: Size variations can indicate deficiencies (small for iron, large for B12). Platelets: Important for clotting; levels can vary with inflammation. Comprehensive Metabolic Panel: Fasting Blood Sugar: Checks glucose levels. Kidney and Liver Function: Important for those with a history of related diseases. Electrolytes: Includes sodium and potassium. Iron and Ferritin: Iron: Essential for hemoglobin and overall health. Ferritin: Indicates iron storage; low levels can cause fatigue and other issues. Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH): Important for thyroid health, especially for those on a strict plant-based diet that may lack iodine. Lipid Panels: Cholesterol and Triglycerides: Should improve on a whole food plant-based diet. High levels may indicate the need to reduce processed foods. Vitamin D: Essential for bone health and immunity. Many need supplementation, especially in winter. Vitamin B12: Non-negotiable supplement for plant-based eaters. Check B12, homocysteine, and methylmalonic acid levels to ensure proper absorption. 24-Hour Urine Iodine: Important for those on a very strict diet without iodine sources. To work with me: https://www.drmarbas.com/ A Big Thank You To Our Sponsors: If you want to work with the best Whole Foods plant-based body recomposition coach, I highly recommend checking out what www.fitvegancoaching.com offers. I did their program and was able to lose 7% of body fat, build lean muscle, and improve my running time. As a loyal subscriber, you get $250 savings on their coaching services. To learn plant-based cooking and get your medical questions answered, join The Healing Kitchen, taught by Brittany Jaroudi and me! Click here to learn more: https://www.drmarbas.com/the-healing-kitchen