what blood tests should I ask my PCP for?

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To know more about your internal health and make informed decisions about your lifestyle and healthcare, you can consider asking your primary care physician for the following blood tests:

  1. Cholesterol levels
  2. C-reactive protein (CRP) for inflammation
  3. Blood sugar levels
  4. HbA1c (Hemoglobin A1c) which reflects average glucose levels over several months

Getting these tests done can enable tracking of important health metrics over time. If you're unable to get comprehensive testing through your doctor due to insurance constraints, there are companies like InsideTracker that offer affordable testing options you could use a couple of times a year and share with your doctor 1. Always remember to have open discussions with your healthcare provider about your desire to monitor your health more closely to make the most of your doctor's visits.

Blood Work Benefits

David and Andrew discuss the benefits of getting regular blood work done, including tracking changes in cholesterol and inflammatory markers. They give tips on how to approach the conversation with your doctor and mention companies that offer affordable testing options.

Huberman Lab

Dr. David Sinclair: The Biology of Slowing & Reversing Aging | Huberman Lab Podcast #52
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what about ApoB?

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Apolipoprotein B (ApoB) testing is indeed valuable, as highlighted by during his discussion with . recommends measuring ApoB for a better assessment of heart health, and suggests that it should be done early in life, especially if there is a family history of heart disease. He would have ideally had his ApoB measured in his twenties, knowing what he does now 1.

ApoB is a protein that is part of Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) particles, and its levels are predictive of cardiovascular function and disease, which can also affect brain health and longevity 2. The number of ApoB particles is more predictive of cardiovascular risk than the cholesterol content within them, making it a more pertinent measurement than just LDL cholesterol levels 3. Therefore, it's a good idea to discuss ApoB testing with your primary care physician to monitor cardiovascular health.

Health Insights

Peter Attia and Andrew Huberman discuss the importance of good sleep and measuring Apob numbers for heart health. Peter shares his personal experience of getting his Apob numbers measured and how it changed the direction of his life. They also emphasize the importance of early measurement, especially if there is a family history of heart disease.

Huberman Lab

Dr. Peter Attia: Improve Vitality, Emotional & Physical Health & Lifespan | Huberman Lab Podcast
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