Cholesterol Tests & Blood Work Explained

Author: Tharb Faisl

Blood tests are powerful tools that can uncover early signs of disease, nutritional deficiencies, and hormonal imbalances. From cholesterol tests to iron blood work, these assessments offer valuable insights into your body’s internal health. Whether you’re checking in with a Wellman test, exploring nutritional blood work, or undergoing a full blood panel test, understanding your results can help you take control of your wellness journey.

Why Are Blood Tests Important?

A blood test involves drawing a small amount of blood, typically through a tube blood test – and sending it to a lab for analysis. These tests detect a wide range of issues before symptoms appear, making them ideal for preventive healthcare. Common purposes include:

• Identifying risk factors for disease
• Monitoring ongoing conditions
• Checking how well organs are functioning
• Measuring vitamin and mineral levels

Blood testing plays a crucial role in disease prevention and early intervention – especially for silent threats like high cholesterol, diabetes, or iron deficiency.

Key Blood Tests You Should Know About

Here are some of the most common and useful blood tests for managing health:

1. Cholesterol Tests

These tests measure various forms of cholesterol and fats in your bloodstream:

• LDL (“bad” cholesterol): High levels increase your risk of heart disease.
• HDL (“good” cholesterol): Helps remove excess cholesterol from the arteries.
• Triglycerides: Another type of fat that can raise cardiovascular risks when elevated.

A cholesterol assessment is often included in a full blood panel and can guide lifestyle or medication changes.

2. Hormone Blood Work

Hormonal imbalances can affect mood, fertility, weight, and more. Common hormone tests include:

• Thyroid hormones (TSH, T3, T4)
• Estrogen and testosterone
• Cortisol levels

This type of hormone blood work is vital for those experiencing fatigue, menstrual issues, or unexpected weight changes.

3. Iron Blood Work

Low iron levels can cause:

• Fatigue
• Dizziness
• Shortness of breath

An iron blood test can detect anaemia or monitor iron overload in conditions like hemochromatosis.

4. Nutritional Blood Work

Essential for understanding dietary gaps, nutritional testing measures:

• Vitamin D
• Vitamin B12
• Magnesium
• Folic acid

Optimising your diet based on these results improves energy, immunity, and overall well-being.

What Do Cholesterol Test Results Mean?

Healthy ranges to remember:

• LDL: Below 100 mg/dL
• HDL: Above 60 mg/dL
• Total Cholesterol: Below 200 mg/dL
• Triglycerides: Below 150 mg/dL

What If My Cholesterol Is High?

High LDL or low HDL raises your risk of a heart attack or stroke. If your cholesterol test shows abnormal levels, consult your GP to explore diet, exercise, and treatment options.

Learn more about how to interpret lipid panels.

How to Prepare for a Blood Test

To ensure accuracy:

• Fast for 9–12 hours before a cholesterol or glucose test
• Stay hydrated with water only
• Avoid alcohol and high-fat meals the night before
• Inform your doctor about supplements or medications you’re taking

These steps are especially important for full blood panels and nutritional blood tests.

Empower Your Health Through Testing

Routine blood work empowers you to make informed choices. Here’s how:

• Track progress: Monitor improvements after starting a new diet or treatment.
• Prevent health problems: Detect issues before they develop into serious conditions.
• Take action: Implement changes based on actual data, not guesswork.

Whether you’re investing in a Wellman test, a nutrient profile, or hormone testing, these tests equip you with the tools for long-term health.

Ready to Book a Blood Test?

Explore options and book online:

• Book a Cholesterol Test at Marylebone Diagnostic Centre
• NHS Blood Test Info
• Private Hormone and Iron Testing Services

Don’t Wait, Test Today

Knowledge is power. Understanding your body through simple blood tests can change your life. From cholesterol assessments to nutritional blood work, every test adds to your health toolkit.

Stay proactive, stay informed and stay healthy.