Measuring Health Beyond Weight: Key Biomarkers
Clinical Overview & Pathophysiology
When evaluating health, relying solely on total body weight is insufficient. Your weight does not show your arterial health, liver fat, or insulin sensitivity. To get an accurate picture of wellness, we must look at key metabolic biomarkers—such as blood pressure, HbA1c, liver enzymes, and lipid ratios—which track cardiovascular and cellular health.
Key Clinical Facts & Indicators
- Insulin Sensitivity (HbA1c): Measuring average blood glucose over 3 months; tracks prediabetes better than fasting glucose.
- Lipid Ratios (Triglyceride/HDL): High ratio suggests insulin resistance and cardiovascular plaque risk.
- Liver Health (ALT/AST): Elevated enzymes indicating liver inflammation or fat deposition (fatty liver).
- Inflammatory Markers (hs-CRP): High levels suggesting systemic low-grade vascular inflammation.
Lifestyle & Nutritional Guidelines
Schedule regular checkups to track these markers. Focus on resistance training and cardio. Switch to a whole-food diet. Check body composition with our Body Fat Calculator. Plan balanced, nutrient-dense menus using our Diet Planner tool.