Abnormal Results - Btrd-Blood Test

8/9/2019 Abnormal Results - Btrd-Blood Test

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© Dr. Karen Vieira 2011 Page 2

About The Author

Dr. Vieira has a Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences from theUniversity Of Florida College Of Medicine. She hasworked in hospitals and clinics conducting clinical

research with patients, as well as in biotechnologylaboratories, researching the biochemistry and molecularbiology of the body at a cellular level. Later, she workedin the food industry with the largest food company in

America. There she conducted nutrition researchfocused on discovering and confirming the healthbenefits of vitamins, minerals, fruits, vegetables, herbs,amino acids, plant extracts and other naturalcompounds. Her projects there included discovering

novel ingredients for improving bone strength, preventing/treating diabetes andmore. She has extensively studied natural medicines and therapies, leading to

her discoveries of existing research on dietary and lifestyle changes that prevent,cure or improve most health conditions.

Website: http://KarenVieira.com Facebook: http://facebook.com/DrKarenVieira Twitter: http://twitter.com/DrKarenV

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Table of Contents

(Click to go directly to a section)

About The Author .................................................................................................. 2

Introduction ........................................................................................................... 5

Basic Blood Panel ................................................................................................. 5 White Blood Cell Count ..................................................................................... 5

High WBC (leukocytosis) ............................................................................... 5 Low WBC (leukopenia) .................................................................................. 9

Red Blood Cell Count, Hematocrit, Hemoglobin ............................................. 11 High (erythrocytosis/polycythaemia) ............................................................ 11 Low (anemia) ............................................................................................... 12

Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV), Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH) .... 15 High ............................................................................................................. 15 Low .............................................................................................................. 16

Red Blood Cell Distribution Width (RDW) ....................................................... 17

High ............................................................................................................. 17 Low .............................................................................................................. 18

Platelets .......................................................................................................... 18 High ............................................................................................................. 18 Low .............................................................................................................. 19

Neutrophils (also see White Blood Cell Count) ............................................... 20 High (neutrophilia) ....................................................................................... 20 Low .............................................................................................................. 21

Lymphocytes (also see White Blood Cell Count) ............................................ 21 High ............................................................................................................. 21

Low .............................................................................................................. 23

Monocytes (also see White Blood Cell Count) ................................................ 24 High ............................................................................................................. 24 Low .............................................................................................................. 24

Eosinophils (also see White Blood Cell Count) ............................................... 25 High ............................................................................................................. 25 Low .............................................................................................................. 25

Basophils (also see White Blood Cell Count) .................................................. 26 High ............................................................................................................. 26 Low .............................................................................................................. 27

Immature Granulocytes (also see White Blood Cell Count) ............................ 27

Liver Panel .......................................................................................................... 28

Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) and Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) ....... 28 Total and Direct Bilirubin ................................................................................. 28

Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) ............................................................................ 28 Heart Panel ......................................................................................................... 31 Kidney Panel ....................................................................................................... 35 Thyroid Panel ...................................................................................................... 38

Hyperthyroidism ........................................................................................... 38


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Hypothyroidism ............................................................................................ 39 Hormone Panel ................................................................................................... 41

Cortisol and DHEA-sulfate .............................................................................. 41 Sex Hormones ................................................................................................ 43 Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA, Men Only) .................................................... 44

Glucose Panel..................................................................................................... 46

High Glucose (hyperglycemia) ..................................................................... 46 Low Glucose (hypoglycemia) ....................................................................... 52

Nutrient Panel ..................................................................................................... 54 Other Tests ......................................................................................................... 56

Prothrombin Time ............................................................................................ 56 Amylase .......................................................................................................... 56 Creatine Kinase and Lactate Dehydrogenase ................................................. 56 Uric Acid .......................................................................................................... 57

This e-book is copyrighted with all rights reserved. The author does not assume liability for themisuse of any information contained within. The information contained within this e-book isoffered to provide you with beneficial concepts regarding your health and well-being. The authoris a Ph.D. medical researcher, not a physician. Please consult your primary care physician beforebeginning any new program of nutrition, dietary supplementation, exercise or lifestyle changes.By consulting your primary care physician, you will have a better opportunity to understand andaddress your particular symptoms and situation in the most effective ways possible.

While every attempt has been made to provide information that is both accurate and proveneffective, the author and, by extension, the e-book, makes no guarantees that the informationpresented herein will help everyone in every situation. As the symptoms and conditions for eachperson are unique to individual histories, genetics and environment, successes will vary.


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Introduction

Many times when your blood tests come back abnormal, your doctor will be ableto provide a specific diagnosis and clear treatment plan. However, finding adiagnosis not always that easy, and some doctors do not communicate very

clearly.

Obviously if your results put you in the "disease zone," you are unhealthy andthere are things that your doctor or healthcare professional can recommend. Butwhat happens if your results are within the normal range but fall outside theoptimal range? Are you healthy because you don't have a diagnosable illness?Many doctors might say yes, because conventional Western medicine defineshealth as the absence of disease. But to prevent future disease, you want to getyour results within these tighter ranges. In most cases the best way to do this isby starting a proactive program targeted at improving your specific results.

This section outlines the improvements you can make to your diet, lifestyle andsupplementation regime in order to correct your abnormal results, helping youprevent future disease and putting you on the path toward optimal health.

Basic Blood Panel

Complete Blood Count

White Blood Cell Count

High WBC (leukocytosis)

Numbers in the upper end of normal let the doctor know that your immunesystem is producing enough white blood cells, which circulate in the blood to fightinfection. If WBC levels are too high, a condition called leukocytosis, this mostlikely indicates an infection. The infection could be bacterial or viral. WBCelevation can also be caused by inflammation from conditions such asrheumatoid arthritis. In extreme cases, a high WBC count could be a sign ofleukemia.

What Your Doctor May Do

Medications

There are a number of different types of medications your doctor can prescribe tohelp lower your white blood cell count. What you are prescribed will depend onthe underlying cause of your leukocytosis.


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Antibiotics – If your WBC is raised due to a bacterial infection, your doctormay prescribe a course of antibiotics like penicillin or amoxicillin,depending on the type of bacteria. It is important to completely finish theseantibiotics as prescribed by your doctor, even if you start to feel better.Otherwise the infection could come back. Some people opt to use

probiotics and other natural ways of getting rid of a bacterial infection.

Steroids – This type of medication will help reduce inflammation. Oftencalming the inflammatory pathways will help decrease your WBC. Somepeople avoid steroids due to the many side effects and instead opt fornatural ways of reducing inflammation.

Antacids – Many treatments for leukocytosis increase the amount of acidin your urine. To combat this, your doctor may tell you to take an antacidlike Tums, Rolaids, Maalox, etc. or may write you a prescription for astronger antacid.

Anti-uric acid medicine – This type of medication will help lower theamount of the waste called uric acid in your blood. This may help preventfurther damage to your cells.

Chemotherapy – If your elevated WBC is due to leukemia, you willprobably be recommended chemotherapy or "chemo" to kill the cancercells. Your oncologist (cancer doctor) will decide what kind ofchemotherapy you need and how long you should have it. Some peopleopt for gentler and more effective cancer treatments.

Procedures

Leukapheresis – This is to lower your white blood cell levels. During thisprocedure some of your blood is removed through a tube inserted in oneof your arms. This tube connects to a machine called a centrifuge, whichspins your blood at very high speeds until it begins to separate into all ofits many components (red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, etc.).The white blood cells are removed and then the rest of the blood plasmais put back into your body through a tube inserted in your other arm.

Bone Marrow Treatment – Bone marrow is the soft tissue inside yourbones that makes all of your blood cells. When the bone marrow isdiseased it stops producing the right kinds and amounts of blood cells. Asa result, in serious situations, your doctor might suggest a bone marrowtransplant. If you have leukemia, you will probably be given very highdoses of chemotherapy or radiation before the procedure to kill off anycancerous cells and to make room for the healthy bone marrow. Thishealthy bone marrow usually comes from someone else (a donor), butmay be your own if your cancer is in remission.


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What You Can Do

Diet

Drink more water. Extra fluid in your blood vessels may help decrease

your WBC. While many people with a very high WBC need to get thesefluids through an IV (a tube in their arm), if your levels are a little high youmay be able to avoid this by drinking more water.

Reduce the amount of unhealthy fats and sugars in your diet. Fats andcarbohydrates suppress your immune system, making you morevulnerable to infection, and infections cause a high WBC.

Garlic has been used as a natural antibiotic for thousands of years. Inmore recent history it was used during World War I to treat typhus anddysentery and during World War II to prevent blood poisoning.

Onions are closely related to garlic and also potent antibiotics. It is mostoften suggested for people suffering from a cold, the flu or a persistentcough. Onions are also thought to decrease inflammation, which may alsocontribute to a high WBC.

Fermented foods like yogurt may also help combat infections by boostingthe body's levels of healthy, friendly bacteria.

Eat more foods rich in omega-3 essential fatty acids, like oily fish(mackerel, sardines, salmon, herring, lake trout and albacore tuna),

walnuts, flax seeds, canola oil and pumpkin seeds. These will help reduceinflammation.

Uncooked olive oil, such as on your salads, will also help reduceinflammation.

Increase your fiber intake. Whole grains, vegetables and fruit are a greatsource of dietary fiber and these will help reduce inflammation.

Blueberries, strawberries and other types of brightly colored fruits arepacked full of anti-inflammatory phytochemicals and antioxidants. Forexample, there is a chemical called quercetin in apple skins that is apotent anti-inflammatory.

Supplements

Probiotics are good bacteria that can be taken in capsule form on anempty stomach. They get rid of harmful bacteria and viruses in thedigestive tract.


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Fish oil supplements contain omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shownto decrease the amount of inflammation-promoting chemicals the bodyproduces.

Bromelain, a protein-dissolving enzyme found in pineapple, also helps

reduce inflammation by changing the way white blood cells are activatedand move through the body.

Resveratrol, a compound found in the skins of red grapes (and also in redwine), is another potent anti-inflammatory. Like fish oil, resveratrol alsodecreases the amount of inflammation-promoting chemicals the bodyproduces. Additionally, resveratrol appears to regulate many immunesystem cells, especially those involved in autoimmune diseases (T cells)and inflammatory lung conditions (granulocytes).

Certain compounds found in ginger, known as gingerols, are potent anti-

inflammatories. They work to keep the body from producing chemicals thatpromote inflammation.

Alpha lipoic acid (ALA) has both antioxidant and anti-inflammatoryproperties. It also has the power to restore other antioxidants like vitaminC, vitamin E and glutathione.

Zinc helps reduce inflammation by decreasing oxidative stress.Researchers at Wayne State University in Detroit found that taking 25 mgof zinc three times a day for three months decreased levels of TNF-alpha,a chemical that intensifies inflammation.

Low WBC (leukopenia)

If the WBC levels are too low, called leukopenia, it could be due to an immunedeficiency or a liver or spleen disorder.


Medication

There are several different medications your doctor can prescribe to helpincrease your white blood cell count. The exact medication you are given willdepend on the underlying cause of your leukopenia; however, drugs are mostcommonly prescribed when low WBC is a side effect of chemotherapy.

Meloid growth factors – These medications stimulate your bone marrow toproduce more white blood cells. The two most common growth factors are


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filgrastim and pegfilgrastim, which are also known by their brand names:Neupogen and Neulasta.

Antibiotics, antivirals and antifungals – Because a low WBC means yourimmune system is suppressed your doctor might also prescribe

medications to keep you from getting an infection.

What You Can Do

Diet

Eat more red, yellow, orange and dark-green leafy vegetables (like carrotsand spinach). They contain lots of beta-carotene, which strengthens yourbody's production of white blood cells.

Eat more kale and other foods rich in vitamin A. Vitamin A is an important

antioxidant that is essential for the creation of new white blood cells.

People who eat more garlic have high levels of natural killer white bloodcells.

Supplements

Oleander extract – In a clinical trial, a herbal supplement containingoleander was shown to be 100% effective at raising white blood cellcounts in HIV/AIDS patients with extremely compromised immunesystems.

Selenium, a trace mineral, is essential for the development and movementof white blood cells.

Siberian ginseng and Asian ginseng help support the immune system,which can help it to produce more WBC if necessary.

Echinacea helps increase the production of white blood cells.

Green Tea also stimulates production of white blood cells.

Other effective boosters for the immune system include pau d'arco, sumaroot, beta glucans, aloe vera and probiotic bacteria.

Lifestyle Changes

If you are overweight, it is important to try to lose a few pounds. Beingoverweight weakens your immune system and leaves you vulnerable toinfection.


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Exercise more. Physical activity is a proven immune system booster.

Reduce the amount of stress in your life and try to relax. The hormonesyour body releases in response to stress (both physical and emotional)

weaken the immune system. Try deep breathing exercises, meditation oryoga. Spending more time outdoors is another great way to reduce stress.

Red Blood Cell Count, Hematocrit, Hemoglobin

High (erythrocytosis/polycythaemia)

Abnormally high levels of RBC, hemoglobin and hematocrit can indicatedehydration, a congenital heart disease, kidney tumor, pulmonary fibrosis or canbe the result of smoking cigarettes.


Medication

Usually your doctor will focus on treating the underlying cause of yourpolycythemia. However, if the underlying cause is undetermined or incurable,there are specific treatments that can reduce your RBC.

Cancer drugs like hydroxyurea (Hydrea) and chlorambucil (Leukeran)cause red blood cell levels to drop. Therefore they can be used to treat

polycythemia.

Aspirin is often used to lower the risk of clots forming, usually incombination with phlebotomy (see Procedures section).

Procedures / Other Interventions

The most common treatment for polycythemia is phlebotomy orbloodletting. Blood is removed from the body at various intervals (usuallyevery 2 or 3 days) until the desired level of hematocrit (blood thickness) isreached. If you have heart disease or are prone to fainting, fluid is given at

the same time so the circulating blood volume stays relatively consistent. After that, some maintenance bloodletting may be needed to maintainthose levels, but much less frequently.

If the high RBC is caused by hypoxia (inadequate oxygen) due to heart orlung disease, supplemental oxygen may be given as well as treatment forthe underlying condition.


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What You Can Do

Diet

Drink more water. Being well hydrated helps keep the blood from getting

even more concentrated.

Supplements

Stay away from iron supplements, as they will boost the production of redblood cells, making the problem even worse.

Lifestyle Changes

If your high RBC levels are due to hypoxia, there are some changes youcan make to ensure that your body is able to take in as much oxygen as

possible. Refrain from smoking or being in the presence of people thatare smoking keep your lung capacity from decreasing. Also, don’t go tothe mountains or any other high altitude locations where the oxygen levelsare low.

Low (anemia)

Low RBC, hemoglobin and hematocrit levels can be an indicator of anemia. Theexact combination of which levels are low can also provide information about thetype of anemia. Certain types of anemia are due to vitamin and mineral

deficiencies including iron, B12, B6 or folate. Anemia can also be caused byexcessive bleeding, such as bleeding from menstruation or bleeding ulcers.Other causes of anemia include:

• Pregnancy – Excessive water weight gain can dilute the blood causinglow levels of red blood cells and hemoglobin.

• Poor nutrition – Not eating sufficient fruits and vegetables or getting theenough nutrients such as iron can cause anemia.

• Kidney disease – Your kidneys release a hormone that helps bone

marrow produce red blood cells. When the kidneys are not functioningproperly, the hormone levels drop and red blood cell production isdecreased.

• Excess alcohol consumption – Consistent drinking of alcohol can affectthe levels of red blood cells in the body.


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• Medications – Some medications can interfere with red blood cellproduction and cause anemia, including chemotherapy.

The treatment of the anemia can vary greatly. First, the underlying cause of theanemia should be identified and corrected. For example, anemia as a result of

blood loss from a stomach ulcer should begin with medications to heal the ulcer.Likewise, surgery is often necessary to remove a colon cancer that is causingchronic blood loss and anemia.


Medication

There are medications called cell growth factors (also called colonystimulating factors) that can be given along with chemo or radiation toprevent red blood counts from dropping. The growth factor that boosts

production of red blood cells is epoetin or darbepoetin (brand namesProcrit, Epogen, Aranesp). Growth factors can take between two and eightweeks to work, so they're not a solution for dramatic red blood cell loss.There's also a risk of side effects, so a patient's doctor will decide whetherto prescribe cell growth factors based on her assessment of the patient'srisk of developing a low red blood count.

In certain patients with bone marrow disease (or bone marrow damagefrom chemotherapy) or patients with kidney failure, epoetin alfa (Procrit,Epogen) may be used to stimulate red blood cell production in bonemarrow.

If blood loss is causing iron-deficiency anemia, treatment will depend onthe cause of the bleeding. For example, if you have a bleeding ulcer, yourdoctor may prescribe antibiotics and other medicines to treat the ulcer.

If blood loss is due to heavy menstrual flow, your doctor may prescribeoral contraceptives to help reduce your monthly blood flow. In somecases, surgery may be advised.

Procedures

If your iron-deficiency anemia is severe, you may get a transfusion of redblood cells. A blood transfusion is a safe, common procedure in whichblood is given to you through an IV line into one of your blood vessels.Transfusions require careful matching of donated blood with the recipient'sblood. A transfusion of red blood cells will treat your anemia right away.The red blood cells also give a source of iron that your body can reuse.However, transfusions are only a short-term treatment.


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In severe cases, a bone marrow transplant might be required.

If your blood loss is due to a polyp or a cancerous tumor in your intestine,you may need surgery to remove the growth.

What You Can Do

Diet

Food has two forms of iron: heme and nonheme. You absorb up to 30percent of heme iron, found only in animal tissues (meat, poultry, andfish). You absorb 2-10 percent of non-heme iron, found in plant foods aswell as meat. Eating meat generally boosts body iron far more than eatingnonheme iron. Foods that boost iron absorption most are meat, ironsupplements, and foods high in vitamin C.

Iron-rich foods:Red meatEgg yolksDark leafy greens (spinach, collards)Dried fruit (prunes, raisons)Iron-enriched cereals and grainsMollusks (oysters, clams, scallops)Turkey or chicken gibletsBeans, lentils, chick peas and soybeansLiver

Artichokes

If you eat iron-rich foods along with foods that provide plenty of vitamin C,your body can better absorb the iron. Good sources of vitamin C are fruitsand vegetables, especially guava, red sweet pepper, kiwi, oranges andorange juice, green pepper, and grapefruit juice. Other fruits rich in vitaminC are strawberries, cantaloupe, papaya, pineapple, and mango.Vegetables high in vitamin C include vegetable and tomato juices,Brussels sprouts, kohlrabi, broccoli, sweet potato, cauliflower, and kale.Fresh and frozen fruits, vegetables, and juices usually have more vitaminC than canned ones.

Supplements

You may need iron supplements to build up your iron levels as quickly aspossible. Iron supplements can correct low iron levels within months.Supplements come in pill form or in drops for children. Large amounts ofiron can be harmful. Thus, you should take iron supplements only as yourdoctor prescribes. Keep iron supplements out of reach from children. Thiswill prevent them from taking an overdose of iron.


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Vitamin B12 injections will be necessary for patients suffering frompernicious anemia or other causes of B12 deficiency.

Herbs for anemia:

Dong quai - This herb is rich in vitamins and minerals.Chive - This vegetable is rich in vitamin C and iron - eat fresh chives.Quinoa - This is a grain rich in all eight essential amino acids that form acomplete protein.Gentian - The bitter herb gentian is popular in England for the treatment ofanemia. Gentian can be brewed into a tea or you can take a commerciallyavailable extract.Dandelion - Believed to help people with anemia. It is very rich in vitaminsand minerals.

Other herbs that can help those with anemia include alfalfa, bilberry,

burdock root, cherry, goldenseal, grape skins, hawthorn berry, horsetail,mullein, parsley, nettle, Oregon grape root, pau d'arco, red raspberry,shepherd's purse, watercress, and yellow dock root.

Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV), Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH)

High

High MCV and MCH levels usually are a result of macrocytic anemia. This typeof anemia is most likely due to vitamin deficiencies. Higher than normal levels

can also be the result of liver disease, hypothyroidism, myelofibrosis, orreticulocytosis.


Medication

If the disease is advanced, macrocytic anemia may be treated with ablood transfusion. But it can usually be treated with diet and lifestylechanges.

Treatments for myelofibrosis and reticulocytosis can include drugtreatment. There are a few drugs currently undergoing clinical trials forthe treatment of myelofibrosis, and the results have been positive. Inextreme cases, a bone marrow transplant might be helpful in slowing theprogression of the disease.


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What You Can Do

Diet

Macrocytic anemia is most often a result of Vitamin B12 and/or folic aciddeficiencies. Increasing the amount of foods high in these vitamins isimportant. This includes foods like eggs, red meat, liver, green leafyvegetables and mushrooms.

Supplements

Vitamin B12 and folic acid supplements should be taken daily. Because itis almost impossible to discern which vitamin a person is deficient in,these two should always be taken in conjunction with each other.

Lifestyle Changes

Another cause of macrocytic anemia is excessive alcohol consumption. Ifthis is the case, the amount of alcohol consumed should be decreased oreven cut out all together.

Low

Low MCV or MCH levels can be due to lead poisoning, microcytic anemia orhemoglobinopathy. Microcytic anemia is usually caused by an iron deficiency.

Hemoglobinopathies are genetic disorders such as sickle cell anemia that resultin abnormally shaped hemoglobin, which makes it unable to carry oxygenthrough the blood efficiently.


Medication

Lead poisoning may be treated with chelation therapy in which the patienttakes a medication that binds with the lead allowing it to be excreted in theurine and removed from the body. If that does not work, a drug called

EDTA can also be used.

Extreme iron deficiency can be treated with hemodialysis or with an IVdrip.

With hemoglobinopathy, the treatment can include administering highlevels of oxygen through the inhalation of nitrous oxide. There are alsodrugs that may be given. Hydroxyurea and erythropoietin are two drugs


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that stimulate the bone marrow to produce more hemoglobin. A bonemarrow transplant may also be considered.

What You Can Do

Supplements

Iron tablets can be taken to increase the amount of iron in the blood totreat microcytic anemia. Care must be taken not to overdose on ironbecause it can be very toxic in high doses.

Lifestyle Changes

Eating foods high in iron such as liver, red meat and leafy greenvegetables can also help treat anemia.

Red Blood Cell Distribution Width (RDW)

High

Pernicious anemia is the most likely root cause when your blood test shows ahigher than normal level of RDW. Pernicious anemia is a condition where thebody produces very large cells that circulate in the blood but are unable toperform any of the functions of red blood cells.


Medication

You doctor may give you a Vitamin B12 shot. This is usually given in thethigh muscle every day for one week. Alternatively, they could give you aprescription oral supplement to take.

What You Can Do

Diet

A diet high in Vitamin B12 will help replenish your system of the amountneeded to remain healthy. Eggs, red meat and leafy greens are all foodsthat can give you the required Vitamin B12

Supplements

Over-the-counter Vitamin B12 supplements can be taken. They come inpill, sublingual (under the tongue) and nasal spray form.


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Lifestyle Changes

Lifelong treatment of pernicious anemia is required. The dietary andsupplemental changes needed to stay healthy may necessitate a person

to make lifestyle changes to accommodate the need for extra vitamins.

Low

Low RBW levels are an indication that your red blood cells are very close in size,with hardly any variation. This could mean that they are all too large, which canbe an indication of macrocytic anemia. It could also mean that the red bloodcells are very small, which is a condition called microcytic anemia. Either way,the red blood cells are not the proper size and will not be able to carry the properamount of oxygen.


Medication

To combat anemia, your doctor may prescribe an iron supplement. Ifsymptoms are severe, they may also prescribe the recombinanterythropoietin, epoetin alfa, which stimulates red blood cell production.

What You Can Do

Diet

As with other types of anemia, eating food rich in iron and vitamin B12 canbe very helpful.

Supplements

Vitamin B12 and iron supplements may be prescribed by your doctor.Since iron can be difficult to absorb, it is best to take the supplement witha glass of orange juice. The vitamin C aids in the absorption of iron.

Platelets

High

An elevated platelet count is a sign of a condition called thrombocytosis. Mildelevation in the platelet count can be a sign of chronic infection. More extreme


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elevated levels can indicate a condition called myeloproliferative disorder, whichis an abnormal growth of blood cell elements within the bone marrow.


Medication

Anagrelide (Agrylin/Xagrid) is a platelet-reducing agent, and is designedspecifically for myeloproliferative disorders. Thrombocytosis cannot becured, but taking Anagrelide can control your condition.

If drug therapy does not work, your doctor may perform plateletpheresis, aprocedure in which blood is removed from the body, a large amount ofplatelets are taken out of the blood, and it is returned to the patient.

What You Can Do

Supplements

A daily low dose of aspirin can be helpful for people suffering fromthrombocytosis.

Lifestyle Changes

People that have a high platelet count should refrain from smoking.

Low

A low platelet count can be due to a condition called thrombocytopenia. It canalso be a sign of disseminated intravascular coagulation, hemolytic anemia,hypersplenism, idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura or leukemia. Most of theseconditions are the result of the same underlying condition, which is chronicinfection.


Medication

Depending on the underlying cause of the thrombocytopenia, your doctorwill prescribe the appropriate treatment.

Treating the underlying infection can be done with antibiotics.

Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura - Drugs that your doctor mayprescribe include Prednisone, intravenous immune globulin, Danazol,


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Eltrombopag, Rituximab, or Romiplostim. In more severe cases asplenectomy may be performed

Leukemia - The treatment for leukemia includes chemotherapy and/or abone marrow transplant.

What You Can Do

Diet

Some research has shown that making some dietary changes canimprove platelet count. These changes include eating fresh foods, healthyfats and leafy green vegetables. People with a low platelet count shouldalso avoid large amounts of red meat, dairy, sugar or alcohol.

Supplements

Taking vitamin K and fish oil supplements have also been shown to beeffective in increasing platelet count.

Lifestyle Changes

The biggest lifestyle change that can help those suffering fromthrombocytopenia is reducing or eliminating alcohol consumption.

Differential

The various types of white blood cells all give information regarding your health. Abnormal levels of specific cell types can help to identify what specific type ofinfection you might be suffering from; it could be viral, bacterial, fungal, orparasitic. Knowing this information will give your doctor a better idea of how totreat your illness.

Neutrophils (also see White Blood Cell Count)

High (neutrophilia)

A high level of neutrophils, the white blood cells that are first in line to fightinfection is called neutrophilia and is a result of an acute bacterial infection.


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reduce symptoms. These include acetaminophen for headaches or anantihistamine to control itching.

A four antibiotic regimen is what your doctor will give as the treatment fortuberculosis. These antibiotics include Isoniazid, Rifampin, Pyrazinamide

and Ethabutol. It is important to take all antibiotics per doctor’s orders anduntil they are complete.

The treatments for leukemia may include chemotherapy, radiation and insome cases, a bone marrow transplant. The patient may also be on astrict regimen of antibiotics to fight any secondary infections that mightoccur when the immune system is compromised.

What You Can Do

Diet

When suffering from the flu or chicken pox, there are a few dietarychanges you can make to work through it. The first and most importantthing is to get plenty of fluids. Drinking fruit juices or water can help yourecover. Eating foods that are high in protein yet gentle on the stomachcan also be helpful. Chicken soup or chicken broth is a good choice.

People suffering from tuberculosis should eat a healthy diet. Foods rich invitamins and minerals will bolster the immune system and help prevent thenutritional deficiencies that often occur with this disease. Diets high infruits, vegetables and low fat proteins and low in fat can be beneficial.

Supplements

There are many supplements that have been shown to reduce thesymptoms of the flu. Things such as Vitamin C and zinc can be taken toreduce flu symptoms.

Taking supplements such as resveratrol, probiotics, beta-sitosterol, greentea, aged garlic, astragalus and rhodiola has been shown to reduce thesymptoms associated with tuberculosis. Before taking any of these, makesure you consult your doctor to determine if they will have adversereactions if combined with the medications you are taking.

Lifestyle Changes

When suffering from tuberculosis, you should limit alcohol intake because,when mixed with mixed with any medications you are taking can damagethe liver.


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Low

Lymphocytopenia is a condition whereby the lymphocyte level is abnormally low.Low levels are usually a result of the body producing lymphocytes in an abnormalmanner. Because of this, the body's ability to recognize and attack invaders is

decreased. Lymphocytopenia can be the result of stress, malnutrition, Hodgkinsdisease or an immune disorder such as AIDS.


Medications

The only way to treat lymphocytopenia is to treat the underlying conditionthat is causing the low levels of lymphocytes. This usually includesantibiotics to treat any infections. If the low levels are due to malnutrition,the doctor can prescribe supplements or dietary changes. For stress

induced lymphocytopenia, the doctor can advise rest, a change in workhabits or discussions with a therapist.

New research is also being done in blood and bone marrow stem celltransplants which can increase the number of lymphocytes in the blood.

What You Can Do

Diet

To avoid infections, there are some dietary changes that can be

introduced. Eating foods rich in antioxidants and high in vitamins andminerals can keep the body healthy. Avoiding foods that are undercookedcan also keep bacteria out of your system reducing the risk for aninfection.

Supplements

Taking a vitamin supplement can increase your chances of remaininghealthy.

Lifestyle Changes

There are many changes that can be made to prevent infection. Keepingyour distance from people that are sick, washing your hands frequently,brushing and flossing your teeth often and asking your doctor about theneed for a flu vaccine are all steps you can take to keep infections at bay.

Also important is to avoid any activities that could cause injury or illness.


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Monocytes (also see White Blood Cell Count)

High

An abnormally high level of monocytes (a type of white blood cell) is called

monocytosis. It can be due to a number of different conditions includinginflammation, stress, an autoimmune disease or sepsis.


Medication

As with other conditions that present with an elevated level of white bloodcells, the most important thing your doctor will do is to treat the underlyingcondition causing the high monocyte level.

What You Can Do

Diet

A diet rich in antioxidants can decrease your chances of an infection.There are also foods that have been shown to reduce inflammation.These include:

• broccoli• foods high in omega-3 oils• wild-caught salmon• cherries

• onion• spinach

Supplements

Fish oil supplements have been shown to reduce inflammation. Turmerichas also been shown to decrease inflammation as well as prescriptionmedications but without any of the dangerous side effects.

Lifestyle Changes

Exercise, additional sleep and weight loss can all help reduce monocytelevels.

Low

Low monocyte levels are due to a condition called monocytopenia, whichis which is a form of leukopenia.


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Eosinophils (also see White Blood Cell Count)

High

High eosinophil levels can indicate allergies, eczema, asthma or an autoimmune

disease.


Medication

You doctor may prescribe allergy medications, which can be eitherprescription or over-the-counter. If asthma is the cause, an inhaler orother medicines might be beneficial.

What You Can Do

Diet

There are foods that have been shown to decrease the symptoms ofallergies by opening up respiratory passages and decrease nasalcongestion. Foods such as nuts, apples, oranges and grapes can helppeople suffering from allergies. Nuts are high in magnesium which hasbeen proven to open respiratory passages, making for easier breathing.

Apples, oranges and grapes are high in antioxidants and vitamins whichcan reduce the symptoms of allergies.

Restricting foods that frequently cause allergies can also be beneficial.Foods such as eggs, dairy, soy and wheat can give some relief.

Supplements

The anti-inflammatory effects of quercetin seem to come from its ability todampen the production and activity of pro-inflammatory biochemicals suchas leukotrienes and prostaglandins, and to block the release of histamine,the biochemical that causes allergic symptoms like runny nose and itchyeyes.

Low

Eosinopenia is a condition resulting from a low level of eosinophils. Thisis usually due to a bacterial infection and can also be a sign of Cushing'sdisease.


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Medication

Your doctor might prescribe corticosteroids or antibody therapy to fight the

infection.

Basophils (also see White Blood Cell Count)

High

A high basophil level is an indicator of a parasitic infection.


Medication

You doctor will give you the proper prescription to fight the particularparasite that is causing the problem.

What You Can Do

Diet

There are many foods that can help expel parasites from the body.Drinking large amount of water and eating foods high in fiber can help

move parasites through your system. Pumpkin seeds, pomegranates andcarrots have all been shown to kill parasites.

Supplements

There are also supplements you can take that have shown to be effecting infighting parasites.

• Probiotics• Vitamin C• Zinc

• Garlic• Barbery• Goldenseal• Anise• Wormwood


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Low

Basopenia (low basophil levels) is hard to diagnose as basophil levels arenormally at an extremely low level.

Immature Granulocytes (also see White Blood Cell Count)

Granulocytes are a class of white blood cells that include monocytes, eosinophilsand basophils. Abnormal levels of granulocytes indicate the need for additionaltesting to determine which type of white blood cell is outside the normal range.


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Liver Panel

Abnormal liver panel results are indicative of liver damage. The best way to keepthese levels normal is prevention of the various diseases that might cause liverdamage such as a blocked bile duct, hepatitis, cirrhosis or liver cancer.

Comparing the relative changes across all results in the liver panel can be helpfulin finding a specific diagnosis.

Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) and Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST)

Normally levels of both ALT and AST in the blood are low. Both ALT and ASTlevels increase with any type of disease or injury that affects the liver. In mosttypes of disease or injury to the liver, ALT levels increase more than AST levels.

An increase in the ratio of AST/ALT (meaning that AST is increased morecompared to ALT) is seen in complications of alcoholism (alcoholic hepatitis andcirrhosis).

Very high ALT and AST levels (10 × normal levels) can indicate acute hepatitis,while moderately high levels can indicate chronic hepatitis. ALT and AST canalso be elevated after exposure to drugs or other toxins, or when the liver isdeprived of oxygen (ischemia).

Total and Direct Bilirubin

Increased total bilirubin is can be a sign of hemolytic or pernicious anemia,hemoglobinopathy (like sickle cell anemia), or a transfusion reaction.

Increased direct bilirubin indicates problems in the liver, including blocked bileducts, hepatitis, cirrhosis, and traumatic injury.

Like ALT and AST, low levels of total or direct bilirubin are not considered aproblem.

Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP)

ALP can be elevated by disorders in both the liver and the bone. If other tests inthe liver panel are also elevated, then the increased ALP probably indicates liverdisease. If ALT and AST are normal, but calcium levels are abnormal, increased

ALP likely indicates a bone disease such as some types of bone cancer. If theother test results make it unclear whether the ALP comes from liver or bone,additional tests can be performed to clarify this.

In hepatitis, the ALP level is less elevated than ALT and AST levels, but with thebile ducts are blocked (for example due to cancer or gallstones), ALP level ismore elevated than ALT and AST.


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In patients with bone or liver cancer, decreases in ALP levels can reflectresponse to treatment. ALP levels that are below normal may indicate a zincdeficiency.


Medications

There are vaccines available for Hepatitis A and B, so if you are in aprofession where you might come in contact with these diseases, it isimportant to discuss with your doctor the possibility of a vaccine.

Depending on the underlying condition that is causing your liver enzymesto be elevated, your doctor may use a number of medications to treat thedisease and relieve your symptoms.

Several drugs are available to treat various forms of hepatitis, includingpeginterferon and ribavirin for hepatitis C, and antiviral drugs for hepatitisB. Many new drugs to treat hepatitis are also under development.

Procedures

Liver diseases are serious, and your doctor will identify the best treatmentoptions for you depending on a wide variety of factors including both theresults of your liver panel and many other factors relating to your generalhealth (such as age, and previous medical history). In some cases youmay need surgery, as in the case of a blocked bile duct. If the situation is

severe, a liver transplant may be required

What You Can Do

Diet

People with liver damage should limit their intake of protein and sodium. A diet high in carbohydrates and vitamins and minerals is best.

Supplements

Taking a multivitamin can give you the proper vitamins and minerals if youare not getting enough from the foods you eat. Some supplements havealso been shown to improve liver function.

Milk thistle contains extremely high levels of flavonoids, powerfulantioxidants that protect the liver from toxins and free radicals. Silymarin isone of its most potent flavonoids.


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Artichoke contains a number of compounds (including cynarin,scolymoside, luteolin, cynardoside, and chlorogenic acid) that promote bileproduction and secretion, protect the liver against toxins and free radicaldamage, and may also lower serum cholesterol.

Burdock is rich in B vitamins, vitamin E, and sulfur.

Dandelion is also rich in B vitamins and flavonoids, which helps to preventdamage from free radicals, and promotes the production and flow of bile toaid in detoxification.

Fringe tree root and bark, like dandelion, is a traditional herbal remedyused to boost bile production.

Guggul is an Ayurvedic herb used for thousands of years in India for thetreatment of obesity, liver and heart problems, and a range of other

disorders.

Licorice root contains flavonoids, phytoestrogens, and glycyrrhizin. Someevidence suggests that licorice root may help in the treatment of hepatitisB and C. Licorice root is also used for the treatment of heartburn, ulcers,arthritis, autoimmune disorders such as lupus, and other conditions.

Lycopodium is used as a homeopathic treatment for gallstones and topromote good digestion and liver detoxification.

Lifestyle Changes

Reducing or cutting out alcohol can keep you liver from becomingdamaged.


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Heart Panel

High cholesterol can have very damaging consequences. The risk of having a

heart attack or stroke is increased in people who have elevated levels of totalcholesterol, LDL (so-called “bad” cholesterol), and triglycerides, and low levels ofHDL (so-called “good” cholesterol).

Cholesterol and triglycerides, along with blood pressure measurements, arewidely used to assess overall heart health. Other tests such as C-reactiveprotein, homocysteine, and sedimentation rate, along with results from a range ofother tests, may be used to provide more information about additional processessuch as inflammation, cancer or kidney disease that may be contributing tostress on your heart.

Low total cholesterol and LDL may increase your risk for premature birth and lowbirth weight in pregnancy, depression, anxiety, violent behavior and suicide. Lowtriglycerides and high HDL are not usually cause for concern.


Medications

Your doctor may prescribe a prescription-only form of vitamin B3 or niacin,called Niaspan or a statin such as atorvastatin, fluvastatin, lovastatin,pravastatin, rosuvastatin or simvastatin. Statin drugs are effective for

lowering LDL cholesterol levels but must be taken with the supplementcoenzyme Q10 to avoid dangerous side effects.

Procedures

Depending on your risk profile and past history of heart attack or stroke,your doctor may recommend a procedure such as stent placement ofbypass surgery to correct blockages in your arteries.

What You Can Do

Diet

A modified diet may be one of the best ways to improve cholesterol levels. Inmany cases, diet and exercise alone can be as effective as cholesterol-loweringdrugs. Reducing intake of fats, red meat and simple carbohydrates is important.Eating more fruits, vegetables, lean meats and omega-3 oils will help. Diets highin soluble fiber are also important in lowering cholesterol. In addition to the above


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dietary changes, cutting out foods that are high in carbohydrates may also helplower triglyceride levels.

Oatmeal is rich in a type of soluble fiber called beta glucan, which lowersLDL or “bad” cholesterol as well as total cholesterol, and elevates “good”

HDL cholesterol.

Almonds are a good source of protein, fiber, zinc, selenium, copper,phosphorus, biotin, riboflavin, niacin, iron, calcium, potassium,magnesium, vitamin E, folic acid and other antioxidants andphytochemicals. Vitamin E protects the body’s cells; fighting aging, cancerand heart disease. Calcium, potassium and magnesium helps to preventosteoporosis and the magnesium can regulate blood pressure. Folic acidin almonds may help to lower levels of homocysteine, an amino acidthought to contribute to fatty plaque buildup by damaging blood vesselsand potentially increasing cholesterol buildup. The fats contained in

almonds (polyunsaturated fatty acids) are actually some of the mostimportant to good health: they help keep blood vessels healthy by givingthem their elasticity, but don’t affect LDL and HDL.

Apples are the richest pectin containing fruit, with the pectin contentvarying among varieties. The soluble fiber, pectin, reduces the amount ofcholesterol the liver releases into the blood. Pectin increases acidity in thelarge intestines, regulates blood pressure, and removes toxins from thebody. Guercitin, a flavonoid, and phenols are found in the skin of applesand protect against free radical damage caused by LDL. Drink cloudyapple juice instead of clear apple juice to maximize its flavonoid andphenol content.

Legumes like peas, beans, and lentils have very potent effects in loweringLDL cholesterol and reducing the risk of heart disease. Beans are veryhigh in fiber. Darker beans contain higher levels of antioxidants andpolyphenols, with black beans having the highest levels. Black beans alsocontain high levels of folate, antioxidants,

Flax seeds and flax seed oil are rich in omega-3 fatty acids like thosefound in fish oil (see below). Flax seed also contains lignan, an antioxidantand phytoestrogen that scavenges free radicals and may be protectiveagainst certain cancers.

Garlic is a potent antioxidant that prevents LDL cholesterol from buildingup in the arteries by protecting it from free radical damage.

Phytosterols can reduce cholesterol absorption in the digestive tract,thereby preventing it from entering the blood. Wheat germ is rich in


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phytosterols. Plant sterol products include sitosterol, stigmasterol,campesterol and brassicasterol.

Soy is high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals and is low in saturated fat. Soyprotein lowers both your total cholesterol and your LDL or bad cholesterol

levels. It can be ingested in many forms including soy beverages, soy“meat” alternatives, tofu, tempeh and baked goods.

Supplements

Aloe vera is rich in phytosterols that protect against free radical damage.

Coenzyme Q10 is an antioxidant that is critical to maintaining normal cellfunction in the process of energy metabolism, and Q10 levels are oftenlower in people with heart disease. In addition, statins deplete naturallevels of Q10. Q10 supplementation can reduce the risk of heart attack

and heart failure, by lowering blood pressure and preventing free radicaldamage to LDL cholesterol, which makes it stick to blood vessels. If youare taking a statin, Q10 supplementation can also reduce any potentialside effects of the statin such as muscle pain.

Fenugreek seeds have been shown in clinical studies to reduce totalcholesterol and triglycerides, while increasing HDL cholesterol.

Fish oil contains omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids may help tolower triglycerides. By preventing platelets from sticking together, omega-3 fatty acids may also reduce your risk of a heart attack or stroke.

Flax seed and garlic supplements contain many of the benefits of thefoods (described above), but lack the added fiber.

Grapes have been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years.Grape seed extract is very rich in antioxidants and may help protectagainst damage caused by free radicals.

Psyllium husk, or Metamucil, has long been used as a traditional medicineto aid digestive health and relieve constipation. It is very rich in solublefiber, which lowers LDL cholesterol.

Vitamin B3, also called niacin, is the most effective known compound forraising levels of “good” HDL cholesterol. Niacin also reduces LDLcholesterol and triglycerides.


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Kidney Panel

The kidney panel is used to indicate how effectively the kidneys are able to filter

the blood. An abnormally low eGFR (glomerular filtration rate) or albumin readingcould just be a sign of increasing age. Your doctor will want to monitor theselevels as you age to help prevent any kidney issues that might arise.

Elevated BUN (blood urea nitrogen) and creatinine, decreased eGFR, andabnormal blood protein and bicarbonate levels (high or low) can all indicatekidney problems. Kidney function can be impaired by many medications anddiseases of other organs (like heart or liver disease, diabetes, and somecancers), as well as by diseases specific to the kidneys.

Abnormal levels of electrolytes (sodium, potassium, chloride, magnesium) can be

indicative of many problems including those directly affecting the kidneys. Thespecific pattern of electrolyte changes (for example, high sodium and potassium,or low magnesium) can be used to make more detailed diagnoses. Similarly, totalprotein and the relative levels of albumin and globulin can be used to helpinterpret the possible causes of impaired kidney function.

High eGFR indicates that the kidneys are strong. Low BUN or creatinine levelsare also rarely a cause for concern.


Medications

Your doctor’s first goal will be to identify the underlying cause of theabnormal results, and medications will be targeted to treating this diseaseor disorder. Your doctor may recommend that you stop taking certainmedications that you are currently prescribed to help your kidneysrecover.

Procedures

Hemodialysis is a procedure that removes the blood, cleans it like an

artificial kidney, and then replaces it in the body. Hemodialysis may berecommended if kidney function is significantly impaired. In cases ofsevere kidney failure, kidney transplantation may be necessary.


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What You Can Do

Diet

Good nutrition and adequate amounts of hydration will help keep your kidneys

functioning properly. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables, complex carbohydrates,and protein, and low in fat and sugar (as discussed under Heart Panel) will keepthe body running optimally. Antioxidant- and fiber-rich foods are particularlybeneficial.

Supplements

If you are trying to optimize kidney function that is already in the normal range,kidney health supplements can help. If you have kidney disease, depending onthe specific problem, some supplements may be harmful to your kidneys. Checkwith your doctor.

Cornsilk is a diuretic (meaning that is stimulates urination) and anti-inflammatory rich in minerals.

Dandelion is a diuretic especially rich in potassium. It also contains highlevels of vitamin A, sodium, phosphorous, and iron. It is used widely topromote kidney and liver detoxification.

Goldenrod helps the kidneys flush out impurities to prevent kidney stones.Goldenrod also has anti-inflammatory properties to help reduce urinarytract pain and inflammation caused by urinary tract infections and kidney

stones.

Horsetail is another herbal diuretic traditionally used to treat a range ofkidney and bladder problems.

Juniper berry stimulates the activity of kidney cells to promote urine flowand is useful in treating some kidney and bladder conditions, especiallyurinary tract infections and kidney stones.

Omega-3 fatty acids, including EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA(docosahexaenoic acid) have been shown to improve kidney function indiabetics.

Peppermint relaxes the muscles of the digestive and urinary tracts, whichcan ease the symptoms of urinary tract infections. Peppermint also hasantibacterial properties to help prevent infection.


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Uva ursi is an herb that has long been used as a traditional treatment forurinary tract infections, gout, and kidney stones. It is rich in minerals andhas antiseptic properties to kill bacteria.

Lifestyle Changes

The effects of dehydration can mimic the effects of kidney disease on yourkidney panel results. Therefore, drink plenty of water and avoid excessive alcoholand caffeine consumption to keep your kidneys functioning optimally.


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eligible for radioiodine therapy (for example due to pregnancy or allergy toiodine).

What You Can Do

Diet

Hyperactive thyroid is not usually caused by a dietary deficiency, but a balanceddiet rich in vitamins and antioxidants will help offset the stress to your bodycaused by hyperthyroidism.

In traditional medicine, radish (especially daikon), broccoli, cabbage, kale,Brussels sprouts, turnips, spinach, and greens (collard, mustard, etc.) canall help reduce thyroid activity.

Supplements

A multivitamin can help maintain optimal levels of vitamins and minerals.Herbs with a soothing, calming influence, such as lemon balm, may beused to help reduce symptoms.

Hypothyroidism

Elevated TSH and decreased T3 and T4 indicate under-activity of the thyroid.Iodine deficiency is the most common cause of hypothyroidism worldwide, butless common in the US and other Western countries because iodized salt is used

so widely. Other aspects of malnutrition can also cause hypothyroidism; in thesecases, maintaining a healthy diet is the best way to ensure that the T3 and T4levels return to a normal range. Other factors including pregnancy, geneticinheritance, and some medications (including lithium and prednisone) can causehypothyroidism.


Medications

Synthetic T3 and T4 (called levothyroxine and liothyronine) can be taken in the

form of daily tablets to replace the thyroid hormone deficiency. You doctor mayplan additional treatments based on the underlying cause of the hypothyroidism.

What You Can Do

Diet

In addition to maintaining a healthy, balanced diet, try to avoid:


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Radish (especially daikon), broccoli, cabbage, kale, brussels sprouts,turnips, spinach, and greens (collard, mustard, etc.) suppress thyroidactivity

Soy products contain phytoestrogens that can depress thyroid functionbecause they mimic the estrogen produced in the human body. Although ithas many benefits to health, avoid soy if you have hypothyroidism.

Eat oats, whole wheat, nuts, seeds, eggs, dairy products, and seafood toensure that you are getting enough iodine and tyrosine, which areessential for synthesizing thyroid hormones.

Supplements

Vitamins A, B complex, C, and E are all very important to maintaining

healthy thyroid function, as are minerals including selenium, zinc, iron, andmanganese. A multivitamin can help to ensure that you are getting optimallevels.

Forskolin is the active ingredient in the Coleus plant, which is usedas an Ayurvedic medicine. It increases levels of an importantchemical that allows cells to detect thyroid hormones in the blood.

Guggul is another Ayurvedic herb that may improve thyroid functionindirectly through its positive effect on liver function.

Taurine is an amino acid involved in the production of thyroidhormones. Taurine levels in the blood are related to thyroidfunction.

Lifestyle Changes

Regular, moderate levels of cardiovascular exercise can help improve thesymptoms of hypothyroidism and protect you against heart disease, ratesof which are higher in people with hypothyroidism. However, talk to yourdoctor before beginning a new exercise routine. If you are taking amedication for hypothyroidism, it is important that you wait until youroptimal medication dose has been determined before beginning.

Tobacco smoke contains chemicals that can harm the thyroid. Quittingsmoking can reduce your risk of developing thyroid disease. Studies haveshown that the longer you smoke, the greater your risk.


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Hormone Panel

The hormone panel is used to identify a range of disorders related to growth,

stress, and sexual function.

Cortisol and DHEA-sulfate

Cortisol and DHEA-sulfate can be used to indicate adrenal dysfunction. They areelevated when the adrenal gland is overactive, and decreased when the adrenalgland is underactive. This could be a result of specific disorders of the adrenalgland (as in Cushing’s and Addison’s disease) or related to types of cancer,diabetes, or disorder in other glands.


Medications

Low cortisol can be replaced with hydrocortisone tablets.

Drugs including ketoconazole, aminoglutethimide, or metyrapone can beused to suppress cortisol secretion in the case of elevated cortisol.

Procedures

In the case of a pituitary or adrenal tumor, surgery may be recommended.

What You Can Do

Diet

Maintaining a balanced, healthy diet can help your body be more robust to stressand other common causes of mild adrenal impairment. However, more seriousdisorders of the adrenal gland can’t be resolved through dietary changes andsupplements alone and usually require medical treatment.

Foods rich in B vitamins (like whole grains, soy, bananas, legumes, eggs,

and lean meats) and tyrosine (eggs, whole grains, seeds, nuts) may beparticularly beneficial to strengthening the adrenal gland.

Liver is rich in an array of nutrients that are important to healthy adrenalgland function. However, be sure to obtain liver only from grass-fed,hormone-free beef.


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Lifestyle Changes

The adrenal gland is sensitive to stress. Avoiding stress and getting plenty ofsleep and exercise are important to maintaining a healthy adrenal gland and canhelp restore balance if the adrenal gland is not functioning at optimal levels.

Sex Hormones

Normal levels of estradiol (E2), progesterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), folliclestimulating hormone (FSH), and testosterone vary widely between men andwomen, and also change with aging. In men, elevated E2, LH, FSH, andtestosterone can indicate types of cancer, testicular injury, or pituitary orhypothalamus disorder. In women, hormone levels change normally over thecourse of the menstrual cycle. Abnormalities can be related to ovariandysfunction, pituitary or hypothalamus dysfunction, autoimmune disease,

response to medication, or onset of menopause. Infertility is a common result ofabnormal hormone levels.


Medications

Depending on your age, gender, and symptoms, your doctor will tailor aspecific treatment to your needs. Hormonal deficiencies can often bereversed by taking a synthetic hormone replacement.

Procedures

Surgery, radiotherapy, or other procedures may be recommendeddepending on the underlying cause of altered hormone levels.

What You Can Do

Diet

Soy contains phytoestrogens that mimic the estrogen produced in yourbody. Eating a diet very high in soy or taking a soy-based supplement can

lower testosterone levels.

Supplements

Black cohosh (Actaea racemosa or Cimicifuga racemosa) is a traditionalNative American remedy for premenstrual and menstrual symptoms suchas cramping and also symptoms related to menopause. It is used to


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copper, saw palmetto berries, pygeum bark, pumpkin seed, stinging nettle root,Swedish flower pollen, diindolylmethane (DIM), lycopene, beta-sitosterol,boswellia, quercetin, cat’s claw, raspberry, rosemary. While some of these areeffective alone, increased effectiveness is often seen with supplements thatcombine several ingredients together.

Lifestyle Changes

Regular exercise that improves the circulation reduces the chances of you havingprostate problems.


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Glucose Panel

The glucose panel primarily tests for changes related to diabetes. Blood glucose

changes rapidly in response to eating, exercise, and many other factors. For thisreason, your blood glucose may be measured at various times after eating.Insulin is normally increased in response to glucose, and removed from the bloodat times of low glucose. The relationship between insulin and glucose levels canbe informative about the cause of the diabetes.

Hemoglobin A1c is a marker of long-term changes in glucose levels (over 2 to 3months), which is particularly helpful for monitoring the progress of diabetespatients. Elevated hemoglobin A1c indicates a long-term trend toward highglucose (hyperglycemia), and low hemoglobin A1c suggests long-term low bloodglucose, or hypoglycemia. These long-term trends are more informative about an

individual’s general health status and risks.

High Glucose (hyperglycemia)

Blood glucose levels are naturally increased after a meal or after short bursts ofintense exercise. This is why glucose levels are often measured after a period offasting. Insulin is normally produced in response to an increase in blood glucose(such as occurs after eating).

High glucose can indicate diabetes, kidney failure, Cushing syndrome,

pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer. Other tests, such as the kidney and hormonepanel, can be used to rule out possible diagnoses. Moderately high glucose mayreflect “prediabetes” or metabolic syndrome.

In type II diabetes and prediabetes, high glucose is often accompanied byelevated insulin levels. This reflects “insulin resistance”, where cells become lessefficient at using available insulin. In contrast, in type I diabetes, glucose iselevated, but insulin levels are very low. Low insulin may also be the result ofpancreas disease.


If your test results reveal kidney, pancreas, or other type of diseaseunrelated to blood sugar metabolism, your doctor will devise a treatmentplan to your specific needs and other general health factors. This couldinclude surgery and/or drugs.


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Medications

In the case of type I diabetes (also known as juvenile diabetes, although itcan also be diagnosed in early adulthood), insulin shots are necessary tolower blood glucose levels, because the body does not have the ability to

produce its own insulin. For prediabetes, type II and gestational diabetes,no known medication has the long-term effectiveness of diet and lifestylechanges for lowering glucose levels. Insulin shots will be prescribed if dietand exercise alone are not enough to lower your glucose levels.

Procedures

Regular self-monitoring of blood glucose levels is necessary for themanagement of diabetes. Your doctor will instruct you in the proper way tomeasure blood glucose. Following a testing schedule is important foroptimizing your treatment.

Some people with type I diabetes may be candidates for pancreastransplant or transplantation of the specialized pancreas cells (islet cells)that produce insulin.

Some studies have suggested that bariatric surgery can reverse type IIdiabetes in the obese.

Diabetes increases the risk of complications including eye problems, numbnessof the feet, and infection. In addition to the diabetes and prediabetesinterventions listed above, people with may also require treatment for such

complications, tailored to their specific problems and other general health factors.

What You Can Do

Diet

Diet is one of the most important factors for lowering blood glucose and reducingthe risk of type II diabetes, treating prediabetes, or managing diabetes if it hasalready been diagnosed. In many cases of type II diabetes and prediabetes, dietand exercise alone can be enough to reverse the hyperglycemia.

Beans are an excellent food for people with diabetes, hypoglycemia, orinsulin resistance because of their low glycemic index. Their high fibercontent can help control blood sugar levels. They are rich in complexcarbohydrates, and protein, and contain minerals and phytochemicals thatprevent disease.


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Garlic is useful in lowering blood sugar levels in healthy individuals anddiabetics. Garlic constituents appear to act by the blocking the inactivationof insulin in the liver. The result is higher blood insulin levels and lowerblood sugar levels.

Ginger may be effective in treating those with type 2 diabetes. High bloodsugar levels disrupt the stomach’s normal function. Diabetics with stomachproblems also appear to respond favorably to medications that normalizestomach rhythm and correct delayed emptying.

Spices contain a rich assortment of antioxidants that can help prevent thecomplications of diabetes by reducing the oxidation of fats. Several spices,including chillies, can also help fight related conditions, such as obesity,by increasing the metabolic rate, thereby helping the body "burn off"excess calories.

Cinnamon is a potent antioxidant that also acts as an insulin substitute intype 2 diabetes. Even at a dose as low as 1 gram per day, cinnamon cansubstantially decrease blood sugar levels. Cinnamon has also beenproven to stimulate glucose uptake and glycogen synthesis to acomparable level as insulin.

Fenugreek is commonly used in cooking and flavoring, and is alsoavailable as a supplement. Studies show that fenugreek helps regulateblood glucose via a unique free amino acid, 4-hydroxyisoleucine. Thiscompound stimulates insulin secretion, thereby limiting the elevation ofblood glucose, stabilizing blood sugar, and reducing body fat production.Clinical studies show that fenugreek seeds not only reduce blood glucosebut also lower insulin levels, total cholesterol and triglycerides, whileincreasing HDL (the good cholesterol).

Additionally, try to eat foods high in the following nutrients:

Magnesium – green leafy vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. Highdoses of magnesium can result in diarrhea, nausea, loss of appetite,muscle weakness, difficulty breathing, low blood pressure, irregular heartrate, and confusion. It can also interact with medications for osteoporosis,high blood pressure (calcium channel blockers), and certain antibiotics,muscle relaxants, and diuretics. So magnesium supplements should onlybe taken as directed by a health care professional.

Manganese – citrus fruits, grains, in the outer covering of nuts, and in thegreen leaves of edible plants.

Omega-3 fatty acids – flaxseed, fish oil


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Zinc – fresh oysters, ginger root, lamb, pecans, split peas, egg yolk, rye,beef liver, lima beans, almonds, walnuts, sardines, chicken, andbuckwheat

Supplements

Aloe vera contains active phytosterol compounds that were revealed tolower blood glucose and glycosylated hemoglobin levels

Alpha lipoic acid (ALA, also known as thioctic acid or lipoic acid) is a fattyacid, which is an especially powerful, innate antioxidant helps the bodyovercome insulin resistance, regulates blood sugar levels and in somecases, can reverse diabetes. ALA supplementation is highly beneficial todiabetics and anyone over 40, as it cannot be obtained in high enoughamounts from the diet and the body’s innate production. ALA is highlyeffective at protecting diabetics from nerve damage, one of the most

debilitating complications of diabetes.

Banaba (Lagerstroemia speciosa) is a plant native to India, Southeast Asia and the Philippines, with a number of medicinal uses including as atreatment for diabetes and as a weight loss aid. The banaba leaf extractinduces glucose transport from the blood into somatic cells (pertaining tothe body), similar to the function of insulin. Corosolic acid is thought to beone of the active ingredients in banaba that regulate blood sugar.

Bilberry has been used in Europe as a natural remedy for hundreds ofyears and is believed to help prevent cataracts and other types of vision

loss caused by diabetes. Bilberries contain compounds that improvecirculation and help keep blood cells from clumping together, as well asflavonoids that keep tiny blood capillaries strong.

Biotin is a B vitamin required for processing glucose, which may reducefasting glucose levels in both type 1 and type 2 diabetics. There is alsosome indication that biotin helps provide pain relief from diabetic nervedamage.

Bitter melon (Momordica charantia) is a vegetable often sold in Asian andIndian groceries, also known as African cucumber, balsam pear, karela,and bitter gourd. All parts of the plant, including the fruit, taste bitter. Bittermelon is used as a folk remedy for regulating diabetics’ blood sugar. Itsother medicinal uses include colitis and dysentery, intestinal worms,

jaundice, and fevers; it also has antibacterial and antiviral properties toincrease the body’s resistance to infection. It can be used in its dried formor its powdered form. Bitter melon is rich in all the essential vitamins andminerals, especially vitamins A, B1, B2, C and iron. Charantin, found inbitter melon, is identified as a principal means of blood-sugar regulation. It


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displays hypoglycemic and other beneficial qualities for diabetics,including insulin-like peptides and alkaloids.

Chromium helps the body respond to insulin and normalizes blood sugarlevels. Chromium can actually assist insulin in transporting sugar to the

cells, consequently increasing insulin sensitivity. People with diabetesexpel even more chromium than healthy people, and its loss makes itmore difficult for their bodies to respond to insulin. Research shows thatchromium supplements can help both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetics controlblood sugar levels. However, there is a form of chromium called chromiumpicolinate, which is not recommended for diabetics.

Fig leaves are a very useful blood-sugar-lowering treatment. Fig trees canbe grown in warmer climates, but when consuming fig leaves use cautionif you are taking insulin or an oral hypoglycemic drug since the twotogether may lower your blood sugar levels too far, causing hypoglycemia.

Gingko biloba is an extremely effective herb used in traditional Chinesemedicine. Studies suggest that ginkgo biloba is beneficial to peripheraland cerebral circulation and can therefore help prevent the tissue damageand poor circulation related to diabetes. Ginkgo biloba can also increaseblood flow to the optic fibers of the eyes and therefore help in thetreatment of diabetes-related eye disease.

Ginseng, particularly North American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius), hasshown promise in studies that investigated the effects ginseng has ondiabetes. Those studies have revealed that North American ginseng mayimprove blood sugar control and glycosylated hemoglobin levels.

Goat’s rue, also called French lilac (Galega officinalis) can help to enlargethe Islets of Langerhans that produce insulin in the pancreas. It also helpsto reduce blood sugar levels. The effectiveness of this herb is due to acompound called guanidine, a substance that decreases blood sugar bydecreasing insulin resistance.

Goji berries contain powerful antioxidants that prevent the accumulationand rid the body of free radicals.

Gymnema sylvestre has been used in India for over 2,000 years for

diabetes treatment, water retention, and constipation. The leaves of

gymnema sylvestre achieve two significant purposes in diabetes

treatment: (1) they suppress the increase of blood glucose, especially

after eating; and (2) they promote insulin secretion. Because gymnema

may lower blood sugar levels, people taking medications for diabetes or


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Vitamin B complex, a mixture of all the B vitamins taken at 50-100

milligrams daily helps regulate carbohydrate metabolism to keep blood

sugar levels normal. For diabetics, B vitamins are critically important. A

derivative of thiamine (B1), may prevent damage to the tiny blood vessels

(capillaries) behind the eye leading to diabetic retinopathy and blindness.

Vitamin B6 has been shown in clinical trials to provide some protection

against the onset of diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Vitamin B6 may work

by blocking protein modifications that cause this complication. Vitamin B12

can likewise provide some benefits in certain forms of neuropathy,

especially B12-deficient neuropathy. Vitamin B3 in the form of niacinamide

has been the subject of many recent clinical trials in diabetics and may

have positive effects in terms of long-term lowering of insulin requirements

and improved metabolic control.

Vitamin C supplementation is essential for diabetics, since diabetesaffects the absorption and distribution of this vitamin. Physicians oftenprescribe their diabetic patients to take between 1 and 3 grams of vitaminC each day to help lower sorbitol levels, which can cause damage tonerves and kidneys when it accumulates. Vitamin C also helps preventcomplications of diabetes such as poor wound healing, capillary fragility,immune deficiency, and vision problems.

Vitamin E helps to improve insulin action, helps to oxygenate the blood,and also improves the body’s glucose tolerance. Vitamin E may also help

prevent vision problems in diabetics, like vitamin C. While taking vitamin Esupplements, monitor insulin dosage because vitamin E may reduceinsulin requirements. For unclear reasons, diabetics require largeramounts of vitamin E. Studies in the medical literature have demonstratedthat consuming anywhere from 500 to 1200 units of vitamin E daily caneven potentially reduce the long term complications of diabetes mellitus. Itmay work by reducing oxidative stress and free-radical production.

Lifestyle Changes

In addition to dietary modification, exercise and weight loss are big factors

in restoring normal glucose metabolism in type 2 diabetes andprediabetes.

Low Glucose (hypoglycemia)

Blood glucose levels are naturally decreased by longer periods of moderateexercise and on an empty stomach. Low glucose levels can indicate adrenaldisease, liver disease, thyroid and pituitary disorders, and abuse of


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alcohol/drugs. Hypoglycemia can occur as a side effect of severe disease inalmost any organ. Very rarely, hypoglycemia can be the result of insulin over-production by an insulin-producing tumor. The most common cause ofhypoglycemia is as a complication from the treatment of diabetes. Hypoglycemiacan occur in diabetics due to taking too much insulin, missing a meal, or

strenuous exercise.


Medications

In cases of chronic hypoglycemia caused by severe disease, nutrients can beprovided through an IV.

What You Can Do

Diet

Blood glucose can usually be increased by eating or drinking a food highin carbohydrates, such as fruit, soda, or a starchy food like bread.

Hypoglycemia related to diabetes can be avoided by eating foods with alow glycemic index, including many fruits and vegetables, beans, wholegrains, nuts, and seeds.

Supplements

A daily multivitamin can maintain healthy levels of antioxidant vitamins andminerals important for glucose regulation. Chromium, magnesium, andvitamin B3 may be particularly helpful in maintaining healthy glucoselevels.

Lifestyle Changes

For diabetes patients taking injectable insulin, careful monitoring of bloodsugar levels is the best way to reduce the risk of hypoglycemia. Frequentmonitoring allows your insulin dose to be calculated more accurately toprevent the injection of too much. Avoiding alcohol can also help,

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