Symmetry is now offering a blood test capable of helping patients determine their levels of important micronutrients. “Micronutrient” is a general term for a group of nutrients essential to the healthy functioning of the body, and include nutrients like vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, antioxidants, and phytochemicals. Deficiency in such nutrients can lead to a variety of health problems. Some conditions resulting from micronutrient deficiencies include fatigue, mood disorders, stress, weight management issues, diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, inflammation, osteoporosis, and migraines.

As a result, it is clear that our health is at least partially dependent upon our bodies having sufficient levels of micronutrients. Since we primarily intake micronutrients through food, deficiency may occur as a result of imbalances in diet or improper digestion and absorption of nutrients. Thus using these new micronutrient blood tests, which show bodily levels of vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, amino acids, antioxidants, immune response markers, metabolites, and carbohydrate metabolism markers, will provide crucial information in regards to which nutrients are lacking. With the help of a nutritionist or health practitioner, patients can then utilize test results to figure out which lifestyle changes will restore health and balance in their bodies. Making healthy dietary changes, as well as including supplements into one’s diet when necessary, will help to bolster micronutrient levels and therefore build one’s overall health.

Symmetry is offering this micronutrient testing through SpectraCell Laboratories. SpectraCell tests the nutrient levels within cells rather than using the traditional method of measuring the levels outside of the cells in order to measure how well the patient’s body is absorbing and utilizing the nutrients. Come in and ask us about it as we are happy to answer any questions you have regarding how this test may be helpful for you. Our Alameda office can be reached at (510) 769-0125 and [email protected], and our Oakland office at (510) 654-2207 and [email protected].