That’s a staggering number—and the truth is, most people don’t even realize they have metabolic dysfunction until years down the road. The good news? You can track and optimize your metabolic health with the right lab tests and lifestyle changes.
In this video @Dr.WillCole and I break down the key metabolic markers that matter most, plus the optimal ranges you should be aiming for—not just the loose, outdated “normal” ranges most labs use.
The MUST-HAVE Lab Tests for Metabolic Health:
✔️ Fasting Blood Glucose – Keep it under 90 mg/dL
✔️ HDL ("Good" Cholesterol) – Aim for above 59 mg/dL
✔️ Triglycerides – Keep them under 100 mg/dL
✔️ HbA1c (3-Month Blood Sugar Average) – Under 5.6%, but ideally 5.4%
✔️ Inflammation Markers (CRP & Homocysteine) – CRP under 1, Homocysteine under 7
✔️ NMR Lipid Panel – Small dense LDL particles under 950 (Pattern A = Best)
✔️ Insulin Resistance Score (IR Score) – As low as possible
✔️ Vitamin D & Magnesium Levels – Essential for metabolic function
💡 Beyond the Labs: If I were a benevolent dictator, I’d also add:
🏋️ Grip Strength Test
🏃 VO2 Max Test
⚖️ Balance & Stability Assessment
🔬 DEXA Scan for Body Composition
These tests should be the standard, yet most doctors never run them all together. If you want to take charge of your health, it’s time to start asking for the right labs and tracking your metabolic health proactively.
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