Glucose level is a measure of how well the body is converting carbohydrates into energy and how well the liver and other organs that help regulate blood sugar are working. Measured fasting, i.e. 9–12 hours after the last meal, elevated blood glucose levels can indicate diabetes, liver disease, hypothyroidism, or stress-related illnesses. Low levels are a sign of hypoglycemia. Normal range is 65–109 mg/dL. (Optimal is 70–100.). If blood glucose is abnormally high or low, I will order a HbA1C or glycosylated hemoglobin, which more accurately measures an average level of glucose over time. Normal range: 4.0–5.9%. Under that reflects hypoglycemia, while above that range, diabetes.

Kidney Function

Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) measures the amount of nitrogen in your blood derived from urea, which is formed in the liver as a byproduct of protein metabolism. The kidneys then eliminate urea in the urine. Elevated levels can indicate kidney disease. It can also reflect heart disease, dehydration, or excessive protein intake. Liver disease can lead to a low BUN.

Normal range is 7–20 mg/dL.

Creatinine is a breakdown product of creatine, a constituent of muscle, and measures the kidneys’ ability to excrete waste in the urine. Elevated creatinine levels can indicate kidney problems. Normal range is .8–1.4 mg/dL.

Total protein measurements can reflect nutritional status, kidney disease, liver disease, and many other conditions. Normal range is 6.5–8.0 g/100ml.

Albumin is the major protein in the blood. Low albumin is generally a sign of liver or kidney problems. Normal range is 3.4–5.4 g/dL