Anyone wanting to lose weight should first take the classic approach of changing their lifestyle. This means: a healthy diet and plenty of exercise. But what if weight loss stalls? Can blood tests offer an explanation for the lack of success?

During a blood test, the blood is broken down into its components and examined using various methods. We distinguish between a basic and a comprehensive blood count.

A complete blood count (CBC) examines red and white blood cells (erythrocytes and leukocytes) as well as platelets (thrombocytes). This test is routine but is also ordered when anemia, infections, or inflammation is suspected. The results provide information about blood cell production and oxygen supply and indicate whether deficiencies are present. Especially when investigating metabolism and weight loss, we order additional tests, such as liver or kidney function tests, to examine carbohydrate/sugar and fat metabolism. A comprehensive blood count doesn't include more values ​​but rather analyzes more detailed subdivisions, which are indicated when a diagnosis is suspected.

Furthermore, thyroid and adrenal gland function can be checked, as existing metabolic disorders may be responsible for the lack of weight loss.

However, blood test results alone will not help you lose weight unless you suffer from a metabolic disorder.

Nevertheless, a blood test is advisable for overweight individuals regardless of their weight loss goals, as they generally have a higher risk of certain metabolic disorders, such as type 2 diabetes and lipid metabolism disorders. Therefore, in this case, risk factors such as blood sugar, HbA1c, cholesterol, triglycerides, and uric acid are also examined.

1. Blood sugar levels indicate whether diabetes mellitus is present.
2. High blood lipids explain an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
   
3. Inflammatory parameters for the identification of chronic inflammation
   
4. Blood salts such as iron, sodium, potassium, or calcium
   
5. certain enzymes and proteins
   
6. Metabolic products such as creatinine and urea
   
7. Thyroid and adrenal hormones
   

Can I perform a blood test at home?

We now offer at-home blood tests, which we provide if it's important to obtain blood samples while fasting or under specific conditions that we can't replicate at our institute in Munich. You simply take a few drops of blood from your fingertip and send the sample to a laboratory. We use tests that can measure fitness-related values ​​or detect food intolerances, for example. The blood test results will definitely be considered in your diet plan, nutritional counseling, training program, and lifestyle planner.