Advanced Sports & Fitness Performance Test
Optimize your athletic performance and overall health with the Welzo Sports and Fitness Blood Test. This comprehensive home test kit is expertly designed to evaluate key biomarkers crucial for sports performance and general wellbeing.
- Oestradiol
- Cortisol (Stress Levels)
- Proteins
- Prolactin
- SHBG
- Albumin
- MPV
- Haematocrit
- Full Blood Count
- Testosterone
- Iron Ferritin Levels
- Inflammation Levels (CRP)
- Free Testosterone
- Total Protein
- Globulin
- Platelet Count
- Haemoglobin
- Prostate Cancer (PSA)
The UK's Highest Rated Home Testing Provider
Testosterone
Testosterone is a steroid hormone found in males and females however, its role is amplified in males. It is responsible for the regulation of libido, bone and muscle mass, mood changes and fertility determination. The testosterone levels are prevalent in men during puberty when it peaks and often decreases over age. An increase in testosterone levels is associated with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and testicular issues in males.
Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG)
Sex Hormone Binding Globulin is a protein present in the bloodstream. SHBG is produced by the liver. The role of SHBG is to bind testosterone and oestradiol for circulating in the tissues of the body. The concentration of SHBG is directly relative to the level of hormones in males or females. SHBG is checked to detect low levels of testosterone in males and high levels in females.
Iron Levels
Iron is an essential mineral that plays a vital role in the formation of red blood cells, which carry oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. Iron is a key component of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that binds to oxygen and allows these cells to transport it throughout the body. Without enough iron, your body can't produce enough healthy red blood cells, leading to iron deficiency anemia.
Iron levels in the body are typically assessed through various blood tests, including serum iron, ferritin, and total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) tests.
Serum Iron: This test measures the amount of iron in your blood. The level can fluctuate throughout the day, so it is often measured alongside other iron tests.
Ferritin: This is a protein that stores iron within your cells until your body needs it. A ferritin test reflects your body's iron stores and is usually the first test your doctor will use if they suspect you have an iron deficiency or overload.
TIBC: This test measures the maximum amount of iron your blood can carry, reflecting the number of proteins available for transporting iron, primarily transferrin.
Abnormal iron levels can have significant health impacts. If iron levels are too low, it could be a sign of iron deficiency anemia, leading to symptoms like fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath. If iron levels are too high, it could be a sign of conditions such as hemochromatosis, a disorder where too much iron builds up in the body, potentially damaging organs like the liver and heart. Regularly checking iron levels can help you maintain optimal health.
Albumin
Albumin is a protein present in blood plasma and plays a binding role similar to SHBG. Albumin is produced by the liver. Albumin will help to detect any issues in the functioning of the kidney or liver. It prevents the fluid in blood vessels from leaking out.
Total Protein
Total Protein measures the amount of two classes of proteins present in the blood: Albumin and Globulin. Albumin is mainly responsible for preventing the fluid in the bloodstream from leaking out. Whereas Globulin is produced by the liver as well as the immune system. The function of globulin is to strengthen the immune system by fighting germs as well as infections.
Platelet Count
Platelet count is a medical test that measures the number of platelets in your blood. Platelets are small cells that help your blood clot. A low platelet count can be a sign of a serious health problem, such as leukaemia or cancer.
Prostate Cancer (PSA)
Total Prostate-specific Antigen (PSA) is a protein in the male bloodstream, produced by the prostate gland which is located beneath the bladder. The amount of PSA in blood, even if it's in minute quantities, is measured in nanograms per millilitre (ng/mL). PSA levels between 4 and 10 ng/mL increase the chances of contracting prostate cancer. However, if levels exceed 10 mg/mL then a biopsy is always recommended to identify cancer. Higher PSA levels are associated with older men and men who have undergone urologic procedures.
Full Blood Count (FBC)
A full blood count (FBC) test is a comprehensive diagnostic tool that provides valuable information about various biomarkers involved in the composition and function of blood. It includes measurements of haemoglobin, which represents the oxygen-carrying capacity of red blood cells, haematocrit, which indicates the volume of red blood cells in the blood, and the red cell count, which determines the number of red blood cells. Mean corpuscular volume (MCV) measures the average size of red blood cells, while mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH) and mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC) evaluate the amount and concentration of haemoglobin in each red blood cell. Red cell distribution width (RDW) assesses the variability in red blood cell size. Additionally, the white cell count enumerates the total number of white blood cells, providing an overview of the body's immune response. The differential count further categorizes white blood cells into neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils, reflecting different aspects of the immune system's functionality. Lastly, platelet count and mean platelet volume (MPV) measure the quantity and average size of platelets involved in blood clotting. The FBC test serves as a fundamental tool for evaluating overall blood health, identifying potential abnormalities, and aiding in the diagnosis and management of various disorders, such as anemia, infections, and bleeding disorders.
Haematocrit
The haematocrit is a measure of the proportion of red blood cells in the blood. It is normally about 40% for men and 38% for women. A high haematocrit indicates a higher than normal level of red blood cells, which can be a sign of dehydration or other conditions. A low haematocrit indicates a lower than normal level of red blood cells, which can be a sign of anaemia or other conditions.
Free Testosterone
Testosterone is either bound to the proteins or exists in its free form. Free testosterone does not need any transport protein to function effectively. If the free testosterone level is low, it indicates an underlying issue leading to decreased sex drive, anemia, etc.
Inflammation Levels (CRP)
C-reactive protein (CRP) is a substance produced by the liver in response to inflammation in the body. When there's inflammation or infection in your body, your liver responds by producing more CRP, making it a useful biomarker for inflammation and infection. It's often measured in blood tests as a non-specific indicator of inflammation or infection.
There are two types of tests for CRP. A standard CRP test measures a wider range of CRP levels in your blood and is used to detect high levels of inflammation due to conditions like autoimmune diseases or serious infections. The high-sensitivity CRP test (hs-CRP), on the other hand, can detect lower levels of CRP, and is used to assess the risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
High CRP levels can indicate a range of conditions, including inflammatory bowel disease, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis. It's important to remember that while CRP tests can indicate the presence of inflammation, they do not specify where in the body this inflammation is located or what's causing it. Further tests are often required to pinpoint these details.
Conversely, low CRP levels are a good sign, indicating little inflammation in the body. However, extremely low levels might suggest a suppressed immune system.
Cortisol (Stress) Levels
Cortisol, often referred to as the "stress hormone," is a crucial steroid hormone produced by your adrenal glands. It's most well-known for aiding your body's response to stress, but cortisol also plays a role in a variety of important functions, including metabolism, immune response, and the regulation of blood sugar levels.
Cortisol follows a daily cycle, usually peaking in the morning to help wake you up, and then gradually declining throughout the day. This pattern can be disrupted by factors such as shift work, poor sleep, or chronic stress.
A cortisol test typically involves a blood, saliva, or urine sample and can measure your cortisol levels at a specific point in time (usually in the morning when levels should be at their highest). Chronic stress, depression, and disorders of the adrenal glands can all lead to abnormally high or low cortisol levels.
High cortisol levels over a prolonged period can lead to a condition known as Cushing's syndrome, with symptoms that include rapid weight gain, skin that bruises easily, and muscle weakness. On the other hand, low cortisol levels can be indicative of Addison's disease, which presents with symptoms like fatigue, low blood pressure, and hyperpigmentation.
Monitoring cortisol levels can provide valuable information about your overall health and your body's response to stress. It's an important biomarker for understanding how well your adrenal and pituitary glands are working.
Globulin
Globulin is a group of proteins produced by the liver and the immune system of the body. Globulin helps to keep the body healthy and fight infections as well as germs. Globulin is also very important to create blood clots and avoid excessive external bleeding caused by injury.
Mean Platelet Volume (MPV)
Mean Platelet Volume or MPV indicates the size of the platelets. The main function of platelets is to support blood clotting and prevent excessive external bleeding caused by an injury. An abnormal range of MPV implies that the person may be suffering from either a bleeding disorder or a disease in the bone marrow. A high or a low MPV can both be harmful.
Oestradiol
The Oestradiol Blood Test can detect the levels of Oestradiol in the blood. Women who have attained the age of 50 and above, and are on their way to menopause have the lowest amounts of Oestradiol in their blood. This can lead to hot flashes, infertility issues, osteoporosis, night sweats and mood swings. A hormonal imbalance can significantly affect the physical and mental well-being of an individual.
Prolactin
Prolactin is a hormone that is produced by the pituitary gland and is also called the lactogenic hormone. Low levels of Prolactin are usually not a cause for concern however, high levels of prolactin in males and females (non-lactating) may indicate infertility, low sexual drive and erectile dysfunction in men.
Haemoglobin
Haemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen around the body. A high haemoglobin level indicates a higher than normal level of oxygen in the blood. This can be a sign of dehydration or other conditions. A low haemoglobin level indicates a lower than normal level of oxygen in the blood. This can be a sign of anaemia or other conditions.
What is Testosterone Replacement Therapy?
Testosterone Replacement Therapy also referred to as TRT, is prescription-based testosterone provided in the form of injections, gels or patches to increase the level of testosterone in males. TRT is known to increase testosterone thereby, claimed to alleviate symptoms of tiredness, low sexual drive, lack of muscle mass, erectile dysfunction and mood changes. However, there are associated risks with TRT. It is best to take a screening blood test for diagnosing if you may have low testosterone and to consult your doctor.
Additional Information
If you are considering testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), it's important to get a blood test before starting treatment. TRT can have some serious side effects, so it's important to make sure your testosterone levels are low enough to warrant treatment before starting.
Who should take this test?
The Testosterone Replacement Therapy Blood Test is suitable for individuals that are on the testosterone replacement theory. This test will determine the levels of hormones in your body. Clinicians may also recommend this test as a screening process to check whether the testosterone is low. It is then used further in the process to see if the therapy is working and monitor regularly.
Experts Opinion on TRT Tests
"This panel can be used if you're already on TRT, if you want to start TRT or if you want to optimise or check your hormone levels. This panel can provide overall health checks for those on TRT."
How to take a Advanced Sports & Fitness Performance Test Test
Collecting a blood sample for your finger prick home test is straightforward. Watch the video below for more details on how to take a home blood test.
How Welzo Home Tests Work
Advanced Sports & Fitness Performance Test Information
Specification of Advanced Sports & Fitness Performance Test
- Test name: Advanced Sports & Fitness Performance Test
- Also known as & related tests: testosterone level blood test, total testosterone blood test, free testosterone blood test, bioavailable testosterone blood test, and SHBG blood test
- Biomarkers:
- Test tube: SST + EDTA (Gold + Purple microtainer)
- Brand: Welzo
- Turn around time: Approx. 24 hours
- Lab test ranges:
- Test Kit Marking: MHRA/UKCA
- Location of Lab: United Kingdom
What is a Advanced Sports & Fitness Performance Test?
A Advanced Sports & Fitness Performance Test is a home health test offered by Welzo. The Advanced Sports & Fitness Performance Test can be taken from the comfort of your home using a finger prick sample, which is then sent back to our lab for analysis and interpretation.
What does a Advanced Sports & Fitness Performance Test for?
A Advanced Sports & Fitness Performance Test tests for the following:
.What are the benefits of a Advanced Sports & Fitness Performance Test?
Checking your health through the use of Advanced Sports & Fitness Performance Test is an important way to track your health. Home testing offers the convenience of conducting health assessments in the comfort of your own home, while enabling quicker, more private results without the need for visiting a healthcare facility.
Can a GP review my Advanced Sports & Fitness Performance Test?
Yes, Welzo offers a GP review service for the Advanced Sports & Fitness Performance Test. Follow the link if you would like to have an online GP appointment with your Advanced Sports & Fitness Performance Test.
Are Advanced Sports & Fitness Performance Tests available on the NHS?
The NHS offers Advanced Sports & Fitness Performance Tests subject to eligibility requirements, consultations and local guidelines.
Advanced Sports & Fitness Performance Test Kit and Ordering
How can a Advanced Sports & Fitness Performance Test be ordered?
A Advanced Sports & Fitness Performance Test can be ordered online through Welzo's secure checkout. Select the Advanced Sports & Fitness Performance Test and add the patient's name and details, then checkout for next-day delivery.
What is included in the Advanced Sports & Fitness Performance Test test kit?
The Advanced Sports & Fitness Performance Test contains the following items in the test kit:
- 1 x UN3373 Test Kit for Biological Substances Category B (test kit design may vary from images displayed online depending on the test selected.
- 1 x Free Return Label
- 1 x Finger Prick Lancet / Urine Sample Pouch or Swab (depending on the test ordered)
- 1 x Cleansing Wipe/ Alcohol Swab
- SST + EDTA (Gold + Purple microtainer)
Advanced Sports & Fitness Performance Test Biomarkers and Results
What biomarkers are tested for in a Advanced Sports & Fitness Performance Test?
The Advanced Sports & Fitness Performance Test checks for the following biomarkers:
What are the results ranges for a Advanced Sports & Fitness Performance Test?
Advanced Sports & Fitness Performance Test reference ranges vary based on age, sex, population sample and numeric test result ranges. However, once you complete your tests, you will receive clear reference ranges for your Advanced Sports & Fitness Performance Test.
What is a normal test range for Advanced Sports & Fitness Performance Test?
The Advanced Sports & Fitness Performance Test range will be provided on the advanced Welzo reporting panel which will factor in multiple aspects such as age, population size comparison and biological sex.
Advanced Sports & Fitness Performance Test Procedure and Timing
When should a Advanced Sports & Fitness Performance Test be taken?
It is best to take a Advanced Sports & Fitness Performance Test first thing in the morning.
How long does a Advanced Sports & Fitness Performance Test take?
The typical turnaround for a Advanced Sports & Fitness Performance Test is 24 hours from receipt at the Welzo laboratory, Monday to Thursday. However, results may come back faster or slower depending on how busy the Welzo laboratory is and if you have requested any biomarkers that take longer to test for. In this case, results can take up to 5 days.
Are there any special preparations required before taking the Advanced Sports & Fitness Performance Test (e.g., fasting)?
We will let you know via email if there are any special requirements for the Advanced Sports & Fitness Performance Test. However, typically we recommend you take a Advanced Sports & Fitness Performance Test first thing in the morning, fasted.
What is the best time to post my Advanced Sports & Fitness Performance Test?
The best time to return your Advanced Sports & Fitness Performance Test sample is Monday to Thursday, before 14:00 to ensure the product arrives at our lab on time for same-day analysis.
What sample is required for a Advanced Sports & Fitness Performance Test?
The Advanced Sports & Fitness Performance Test requires a capillary blood sample using a SST + EDTA (Gold + Purple microtainer) that is collected from a finger-prick blood sample.
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