The Anti-Aging Panel: Female Level III is a comprehensive panel of tests that measure blood chemistry and hormone levels associated with female aging. It is the same as Level II with the addition of free testosterone, hs-CRP, homocysteine, DHEA-S, GHB, ALT and vitamin B12 and folates.

Female Hormone Levels

Hormones keep the body healthy, vibrant and more youthful-looking. Unfortunately hormone levels naturally decrease with age, causing the body to show signs of aging. Monitoring female hormones and balancing them delays the aging process. The test results will help determine if hormone replacement therapy is needed.

Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate (DHEA-S)

The body uses cholesterol to convert DHEA into estrogen and testosterone, so those with low levels of these sex hormones should check their DHEA levels. Those with optimal levels of DHEA-S have a lower risk of death and cardiovascular disease. DHEA-S also helps to reduce oxidative stress and protects diabetics against damaging effects from high blood sugar.

Low levels of DHEA-S are linked to a shorter life span. Increased levels can indicate congenital adrenal hyperplasia, adrenal carcinoma, polycystic ovary syndrome or a tumor on the adrenal gland.

HGH (Human Growth Hormone)

Produced in the pituitary gland, HGH regulates metabolism and helps maintain organs and tissues through the growing phase and after. HGH levels change with age, resulting in menopause and exaggerated menopausal symptoms. Low levels decrease metabolism and muscle mass, increasing fat. The HGH blood test results can help diagnose a problem, such as a tumor, and to determine a need for HGH replacement therapy, which can lead to increased metabolism, bone density, muscle mass and capacity for exercise.

Estradiol

Also called E2, estradiol is the major estrogen in humans, impacting reproduction, sexual function, bone health, nerves, metabolism and heart health. Men naturally convert testosterone into estradiol, resulting in lower testosterone levels.

Low levels increase risk for certain cancers, osteoporosis and the discomforts that come with menopause, such as hot flashes. Balancing estradiol and primary hormones delays the effects of aging.

Estrogen, Total

The total estrogens test measures the blood levels of the primary estrogens: estriol, estradiol and estrone. Monitoring total estrogen levels helps detect fetal birth defects, identify ovarian tumors in post-menopausal women and assess risk for osteoporosis, cancer and other health conditions. Total estrogen also helps evaluate symptoms of menopause and its treatment. The test more accurately measures the estrogen hormones that fluctuate during a woman's cycle and during menopause than tests that measure strictly estrogen.

IGF-1 (Insulin Like Growth Factor) Test

HGH (defined earlier) causes the release of the IGF-1 (IGF-1) hormone. Therefore a blood test that measures IGF-1 acts like a biomarker for blood levels of HGH. The IGF-1 hormone is produced by the liver and other tissues that affect glucose metabolism and other growth activities. Measuring this hormone assesses the levels of HGH and confirms abnormal levels.

The IGF-1 portion of the Anti-Aging Panel is done to see if levels are optimal or if supplementation may be necessary for health aging. Although controversial, growth hormone therapy is an anti-aging treatment. It arguably provides such benefits as an increased metabolism, increased muscle mass and decreased fat. Some adults may also experience increased bone density and a greater capacity for exercise.

Testosterone, Free and Total

Testosterone is the principal steroid that repairs and regenerates healthy tissue, attributing to muscle health. Healthy levels are needed for general health and well-being, as research has shown the relationship between decreased levels and age-related diseases like osteoporosis, heart disease, diabetes and decreased sex drive.

There are two types of testosterone: free and bound. Free testosterone is freely floating in the blood stream. Bound testosterone, which is bound to the sex hormone binding globulin glucoprotein, is considered neutral—and somewhat unusable. Total testosterone includes both types. It is important to monitor free and total testosterone to keep the levels of testosterone and estrogen balanced to slow the aging process.

Basic Health Screen (BHS)

Also called a chemistry panel, the Basic Health Screening, consists of a CMP, CBC, and urinalysis, and is designed to assess the functionality of your major organs, including your heart, kidneys, and liver as well as your bones, muscles, and nerves. A CMP, which stands for Comprehensive Metabolic Panel, is actually a series of 14 specific tests that display information about your pH balance, electrolyte levels, blood sugars, and blood proteins, as well as the functionality of your kidneys and liver. CBC stands for Complete Blood Count to check for diseases such as anemia or various infections. Like the CMP, it is actually a panel of tests that check for things such as your red and white blood cell counts, platelet numbers, hemoglobin levels, and various other factors. A urinalysis is useful to check for diabetes and urinary tract infections. It gives accurate measurements of things such as your glucose and ketone levels.

Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT)

High ALT indicates a potential liver injury, damage or disease. This test is the most accurate liver test.

Glycohemoglobin (GHB)

The GHB test measures glucose levels bound to hemoglobin. High levels could indicate diabetes or prediabetes.

Lipid Profile

This part of the Anti-Aging Panel includes total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol and triglycerides. These tests monitor risk factors for heart disease, heart attack and stroke to help determine if diet or lifestyle changes or medications are necessary for optimal cardiovascular health.

High cholesterol is a risk factor for heart disease, heart attack and stroke. The LDL cholesterol, also known as bad cholesterol, can contribute to atherosclerosis by building up on the lining of arteries. Triglycerides are fat in the blood. Although used to provide the body energy, high levels can raise the risk of heart disease.

High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein Test (hs-CRP)

If an inflammation develops in the body, the liver produces more C-Reactive proteins. High hs-CRP levels can indicate heart disease and increased risk of heart attack. Doctors recommend routine CRP testing.

Homocysteine

Used to produce energy, if this amino acid level rises in the blood, risk of Alzheimer's disease, osteoporosis, stroke and coronary heart disease also rises. Although levels are influenced by genetic factors, consuming meat largely contributes to homocysteine in the blood. High levels indicate a need for a change in lifestyle.

Thyroid Profile

The Thyroid Profile has three parts with each checking a different thyroid hormone: triiodothyronine (T3), thyroxine (T4) and the T7 count. Thyroid hormones are produced in the butterfly-shaped gland in front of the windpipe and are necessary for regulating how the body uses energy. Low levels can lead to weight gain and fatigue.

Vitamin B12 and Folates

A deficiency of vitamin B12 and folic acid may cause ailments like vitamin B12 deficiency anemia. Symptoms may include bleeding gums, sore tongue, weakness, lightheadedness, pale skin, nausea, digestion problems, weight loss, numb extremities, depression and even dementia over time. Low levels indicate a need for supplementation.

This is a FASTING test.