Understanding Metabolic Health

Metabolic health — You may have heard the term before, or maybe it’s completely new to you. Either way, it’s not something most of us think about every day and isn’t always well understood. The reality is that metabolic health plays a crucial role in how your body functions and can impact your risk level for conditions like diabetes and high cholesterol. Knowing the current state of your metabolic health and understanding how it relates to your health as a whole can help you make informed decisions and take control of your long-term well-being.

What is metabolic health?

Metabolic health is all about how well your body processes and uses energy to help you function at your best. When it’s in balance, your blood sugar stays steady, your hormones are regulated, and you can use nutrients effectively. In broader terms, your body runs smoothly — allowing you to more easily navigate everyday life (think eating, moving, sleeping, and handling stress). 

How your metabolism affects your health

A good way to think about the role of your metabolism is as your body’s engine. When it’s well maintained, everything works as it should. But, if something isn’t functioning at its best, it can create challenges, like frequent energy crashes, if not equipped with the right support. This can then impact your overall health and put you at a higher risk for conditions like diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure. 

Why is understanding metabolic health important?

Your metabolic health is determined by factors such as your blood sugar, cholesterol, inflammation, and blood pressure levels — all of which influence your heart health and risk of developing chronic conditions. Keeping these levels within a healthy range helps reduce your risk of health complications down the road. 

Many metabolic conditions can develop silently, meaning the warning signs are subtle, and you may not notice symptoms until they become serious. By understanding your metabolic health and monitoring it regularly, you can detect imbalances early and take action before complications arise.

Signs your metabolic health may be at risk:

• Unusual thirst
• Frequent urination
• Sudden changes in weight
• Extreme fatigue
• Blurred vision
• Frequent infections
• Slow-healing cuts and bruises
• Numbness in hands or feet
• Erectile dysfunction

How do you monitor metabolic health?

The best way to monitor your metabolic health is through regular risk assessments and routine lab work. Knowing you’re at risk or getting abnormal testing results can help you figure out if there are lifestyle changes or medical interventions that could improve your health. 

You can connect with a Felix healthcare practitioner online today to have your metabolic health tested and see where you stand. 

Metabolic health testing

A metabolic health panel measures key markers in your blood to provide a picture of your overall health. This lab work helps identify any abnormalities happening in the body and diagnose common conditions that affect your heart and metabolic health (diabetes, prediabetes, and high cholesterol) by assessing:

• Blood sugar (HbA1c, fasting glucose)
• Kidney function (Creatinine, ACR)
• Cholesterol levels (LDL, HDL, total cholesterol, triglycerides)
• Liver function (ALT)
• Thyroid function (TSH)

Why you should get tested regularly 

Routine metabolic health testing helps you stay ahead of potential health issues, manage current diagnosed conditions more effectively, and make informed decisions about your care. Frequent testing is especially important for individuals with a higher risk of developing diabetes or prediabetes. Detecting these conditions early allows for timely interventions, whether through lifestyle adjustments or medical treatment.

Risk factors:

• Age (40+)
• High blood pressure
• High BMI or medically overweight
• Parent or sibling with type 2 diabetes.
• Physically active less than 3 times a week
• Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
• Obstructive sleep apnea
• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
• High levels of cholesterol or other fats in the blood
• Have had gestational diabetes or given birth to a baby weighing over 9 pounds.
• Ethnic background (African, Arab, Asian, Hispanic, Indigenous, or South Asian descent)

Benefits of metabolic testing at Felix

Felix makes it easier to take charge of your metabolic health with convenient, on-demand testing. Whether you’re looking for a diagnosis, treatment plan management, or ongoing support, our healthcare practitioners can provide informed, judgment-free care with fewer barriers. Here’s how we help:

Convenient access: No wait lists, doctor’s office visits, or jumping through hoops. You can easily get a doctor-backed diagnosis online and a personalized treatment plan from metabolic health-informed practitioners.

On-demand support: Take a proactive approach to your health with on-demand support from a healthcare practitioner who understands your health history and can provide continuity of care through medical treatment, lifestyle adjustments, and educational resources.

Ongoing care: Our healthcare practitioners monitor your lab results and send testing reminders so you can stay on track. You can also message your practitioner at any time through chat for support.

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Metabolic health might not be something you think about every day, but it’s a key part of your overall well-being. Understanding it, monitoring it, and taking action when needed can help you stay in control of your long-term health. At Felix, we’re here to help provide a convenient way to get tested and find the support you need on your schedule.

Ready to take control of your metabolic health? Start a Felix visit today.