FUNCTIONAL HEALTH
Why NORMAL is NOT OPTIMAL
When you go to your doctor for an annual physical, one of the most common tests they will perform is a blood test. The results of this test are used to check for a variety of health issues, from high cholesterol to anemia. But have you ever stopped to wonder what the “normal” ranges listed on your blood test results really mean? Are they the same as optimal ranges? And why does it matter?
Firstly, it’s important to understand that the normal ranges listed on blood test results are based on averages.
These ranges are created by measuring the results of thousands of people’s blood tests and then calculating the average. The ranges are then set to include 95% of those results. This means that if your results fall within the normal range, they are considered to be “normal” based on the average of the population, but this doesn’t necessarily mean they are optimal for your individual health.
Optimal ranges, on the other hand, are based on what is ideal for your individual health.
Optimal ranges take into account your unique biological makeup, lifestyle factors, and personal health history.
These ranges are set by functional medicine practitioners and are often more narrow than the normal ranges. This is because optimal ranges are designed to identify imbalances or deficiencies before they become a serious health issue.
For example, the normal range for blood sugar levels is between 4 – 6.5 mmol/L. However, optimal ranges for fasting blood sugar levels are between 4 – 5.5 mmol/L. This is because levels above 5.5 mmol/L. can be an early indicator of insulin resistance, which can lead to type 2 diabetes. By identifying these imbalances before they become serious health issues, you can take steps to address them and improve your overall health.
Another example is the normal range for thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), which is between 0.4-4.0 mIU/L. However, optimal ranges for TSH are between 1.0-2.0 mIU/L. This is because levels outside of this range can be an early indicator of thyroid dysfunction, which can impact a variety of bodily functions, including metabolism and energy levels.
In summary, normal ranges on blood test results are based on averages and are not necessarily optimal for your individual health.
Optimal ranges, on the other hand, take into account your unique biology and lifestyle factors to identify imbalances and deficiencies before they become serious health issues. By using optimal ranges as a guide, you can take proactive steps to improve your health and prevent disease.
Now that you know why normal is not optimal, I hope it’s clear why your functional health report is an important tool in achieving overall long-term optimal health.
Client Experience
My GP had me sent for standard bloodwork and dismissed my concerns as stress or work related. I find too often women’s health concerns are brushed away as lifestyle and something we need to simply live with. Upon meeting me, my naturopath heard and validated all my concerns and referred me for extensive bloodwork investigation provided by Marie. Marie not only thoroughly investigated my findings, but also analyzed and charted them. I was found to have several vitamin deficiencies as well as hormonal and thyroid concerns. Marie also took time from her busy schedule to explain the results and ease my health anxieties. She is thorough, professional but most importantly kind and truly cares for those she supports. I fully recommend her to anyone looking to have a better quality of life whom can’t find the answers through conventional medicine practices.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Laura
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