Are you overfed and undernourished?
This statement might be hard to believe, but in this day and age, studies show that this has never been more true.
Processed foods, depleted soil, lack of sun and exposure to toxins are just a few of the reasons our bodies are lacking key nutrients.
And, even if you have an extremely ‘clean’ or healthy diet, you should consider lab testing your blood work for these 7 key nutrients for optimal body function as you age:
1. Vitamin D: We need vitamin D for strong bones, muscles and overall health. However, the majority of people worldwide are vitamin D deficient or insufficient, which can lead to bone and muscle pain, and softening of the bones.
2. B12: Vitamin B12 helps us produce healthy red blood cells in our bone marrow. Vitamin B12 is only available in animal foods (meat and dairy products) or yeast extracts (such as brewer's yeast). Vitamin B12 deficiency can result in anemia, a lower-than-normal number of red blood cells and elevated homocysteine (an inflammatory marker).
3. Magnesium: More than half of all Americans are magnesium deficient. Modern life depletes our magnesium through too much coffee, alcohol, antibiotic use, drugs and over-exercise. Magnesium deficiencies are linked to increased inflammatory markers such as CRP, poor sleep, muscle spasms, eye twitches and insomnia.
4. Iron: According to the World Health Organization, about 30% of the world’s population has an iron status that’s considered below normal. Low iron levels can result in fatigue, pale complexion and increased anxiety. You can test your levels with a serum ferritin test.
5. Omega 6:3 ratio: About 90% of Americans have low concentrations of the Omega-3 fats EPA and DHA. Omega-3s are anti-inflammatory in nature and can help raise HDL cholesterol (the good cholesterol that helps decrease the bad cholesterol in our blood vessels).
6. Micronutrients: Zinc and selenium help to support your immune system and maintain a healthy thyroid function.
These nutrients can be checked by your primary care physician or you can receive discounted labs (without the hassle of driving to see your doctor) by using this link.
Since I am an affiliate with this company, you can receive discounted labs in a safe, confidential and convenient way, and once you have your results, I can share with you Dr. Alan’s* optimal functional ranges for labs and guide you to other helpful resources.
Please note: I am not a medical doctor and I cannot receive lab results directly from any lab or diagnose or treat any medical condition.
*Dr. Alan Hopkins M.D. is the Director of YourLabWork.com