- 3 lessons you can learn from polyamorous relationships - 25 October, 2022
- Why Roe v. Wade isn’t just a women’s issue, but a humanity issue - 7 September, 2022
- Interview: Caleb Everett: ‘you know she keeps a diary – and it all goes in’ - 22 December, 2020
How do I know if I have any nutritional deficiencies?
Blood tests are a good way of confirming optimal internal organ function and screening for nutrient deficiencies and are easily accessible through your GP. The LDC Vegan Blood Profile includes:
- Full Blood Count (FBC)
This test provides detailed information about your red and white blood cells and can be used to detect conditions such as anaemia caused by iron and/or vitamin-B12 deficiency.
- Vitamin-B12, Folate
This test measures the levels of vitamin-B12 and Folate in your blood.
- Iron and Ferritin
This test measures the levels of iron and ferritin (a marker of the body’s iron stores).
- Omega 3 & 6
This test measures levels of the Omega 3 fats (DHA and EPA) and the ratio of Omega 3 to Omega 6 fats. Omega 3 fats are anti-inflammatory, whereas Omega 6 fats tend to be pro-inflammatory. A ratio of 2:1 is considered to be ideal.
- Lipids
This test measures levels of Cholesterol and it’s sub-fractions including HDL/ “beneficial” cholesterol, and LDL/ “harmful” cholesterol.
- HBA1C
The Glycosylated Haemoglobin blood test indicates how well blood sugar levels have been controlled in the preceding 6-8 weeks. The test can be used to identify individuals with diabetes or those at a higher risk of developing diabetes (“pre-diabetes”) due to frequently eating nutrient-poor, sugar-rich fast-food vegan options.
