Sports Hormone Profile
Description
•Hormones
•Liver Function
•Thyroid
This profile is for anyone wanting information about their hormones and related systems that may be affected by their sporting activities or supplements.
Identifying conditions of this test
Hormones (9 Biomarkers)
The human body relies on a multitude of hormones to support various bodily functions and processes, including growth, metabolism, appetite, and fertility. Hormone imbalances or deficiencies can manifest in diverse symptoms and contribute to various conditions. Therefore, understanding the status of these hormones is crucial for a comprehensive evaluation.
- Oestradiol
Oestradiol, a form of estrogen, is the primary female hormone produced by non-pregnant women. This hormone plays a pivotal role in the development of female physical features and reproductive functions. Oestradiol tests are specifically designed to assess ovarian functions, making them highly useful in evaluating fertility-related concerns. Furthermore, they can aid in diagnosing the underlying causes of precocious or delayed puberty in girls. Additionally, oestradiol tests are employed to monitor hormone replacement therapy in women during the peri-menopausal and menopausal stages.
- Follicular Stimulating Hormone (FSH)
FSH is a reproductive hormone produced by the pituitary gland in the brain. Its primary function is to stimulate the growth and development of unfertilized eggs during the menstrual cycle in women. Furthermore, FSH initiates the production of crucial sex hormones like oestradiol and progesterone. In men, FSH plays a significant role in the stimulation of sperm production. To assess fertility issues and pituitary gland disorders, FSH levels are often tested alongside other sex hormones such as LH, testosterone, oestradiol, and progesterone in both men and women.
- Luteinizing Hormone (LH)
LH is another reproductive hormone produced by the pituitary gland in the brain. In females, LH plays a crucial role in regulating the menstrual cycle and ovulation by stimulating the ovaries to produce other reproductive hormones. In males, LH acts as a stimulator and controller of testosterone production. The LH test is particularly valuable in determining any potential reproductive problems that may be affecting your health and fertility.
- Testosterone
Testosterone is a steroid hormone produced by the testes in males and the adrenal glands in both men and women. The production of this hormone is stimulated and controlled by luteinizing hormone. During puberty, boys experience high levels of Testosterone, which stimulate the growth of body hair and muscle development. Additionally, it regulates male libido and muscle mass. In females, it is present in small amounts and originates from the ovaries. Testosterone tests are utilized to diagnose various conditions such as erectile dysfunction and male infertility.
- Prolactin
Prolactin is a hormone secreted by the pituitary glands in the brain. Its primary responsibility lies in promoting lactation (breast milk production) in women during pregnancy and postpartum. However, abnormal levels of prolactin can have implications beyond lactation. A prolactin test is employed to diagnose infertility in both men and women, as well as to identify menstrual problems and erectile dysfunction.
- Sex Hormone Binding Globulin
Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) is a protein produced by the liver. Its main function is to bind and transport hormones such as oestradiol, testosterone, and dihydrotestosterone in the bloodstream. The SHBG test is used to diagnose testosterone deficiency in men and investigate testosterone production in women.
- Free Testosterone Calculation
Free Testosterone Calculation measures the amount of unbound testosterone in the body. It is a steroid hormone produced by the testes in males and the adrenal glands in both men and women. Free testosterone plays a role in regulating male sex drive and maintaining muscle mass. This calculation is used to diagnose various conditions, including erectile dysfunction and male infertility.
- DHEA-Sulphate
DHEA-Sulphate is a male sex hormone found in both males and females. It is primarily produced in the adrenal glands, with a small amount produced in the male testes and female ovaries. DHEA-Sulphate helps regulate body functions such as heart rate and blood pressure and is important in the production of sex hormones like testosterone and estrogen. Measuring DHEA-Sulphate aids in the diagnosis of adrenal gland tumors and disorders of the testicles or ovaries.
- Free Androgen Index
Free Androgen Index is a ratio used to assess androgen levels. Androgens are hormones that include testosterone and can be found in both males and females. They play a role in the development of sex organs and the production of the female hormone estrogen. The free androgen index is used to diagnose various conditions, such as male infertility.
Liver Function (8 Biomarkers)
The liver performs essential functions within the body, such as regulating blood sugar levels, fighting infections, and detoxifying the blood. Maintaining good liver function is crucial for overall health and well-being.
- Albumin
Albumin is a liver-produced protein responsible for maintaining fluid balance in the bloodstream. It also transports substances like hormones and vitamins throughout the body. Albumin tests aid in diagnosing and monitoring liver and kidney diseases.
- Globulin
Globulin is a protein synthesized in the liver by the immune system. It plays a vital role in liver function, blood clotting, and immune response against infections. Globulin tests are used to diagnose conditions such as liver damage or disease, kidney disease, and autoimmune disorders.
- Total Protein
Total Protein refers to the combined amount of two proteins found in blood serum: albumin and globulin. Albumin is crucial for maintaining fluid in the bloodstream, while globulin is an essential component of the immune system. Total protein tests indicate potential issues with albumin or globulin levels.
- Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP)
Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) is an enzyme primarily found in the liver and bones. ALP tests assist in diagnosing liver or bone diseases.
- Alanine Transaminase (ALT)
Alanine Transaminase (ALT) is an enzyme predominantly found in the liver, with smaller amounts in the heart, kidneys, and skeletal muscle. During injury to the heart, liver, kidneys, or skeletal muscle, ALT is released into the bloodstream. ALT tests aid in diagnosing liver disease.
- Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST)
Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) is an enzyme produced by the liver. When there is injury to the heart, liver, or skeletal muscle, AST is released into the bloodstream. AST tests can detect liver disease.
- Gamma Glutamyl Transferase (GGT)
Gamma Glutamyl Transferase (GGT) is an enzyme primarily found in the liver, as well as in the gallbladder, spleen, pancreas, and kidneys. It plays a significant role in the liver’s metabolism of drugs and toxins. GGT tests can identify liver disease and bile duct injuries.
- Total Bilirubin
Total Bilirubin measures the amount of bilirubin present in the blood. Bilirubin aids in the digestion of food and is produced from the breakdown of old red blood cells carrying oxygen. Total bilirubin tests aid in diagnosing and monitoring liver diseases and specific types of anemia.
Thyroid (2 biomarkers)
This home test checks the function of your thyroid gland. It tests for the level of Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) and Free (FT4).
- Thyroid Stimulating Hormone
Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH), produced by the pituitary gland in the brain, plays a crucial role in stimulating the thyroid gland situated in the throat. These hormones regulate vital aspects like body weight, temperature, and muscle strength. Measuring TSH levels serves as a valuable indicator of potential thyroid diseases, making it a common practice to test it alongside Free T4 and Free T3.
- Free T4 (Thyroxine)
Free T4 (free thyroxine) is a vital hormone produced by the thyroid gland. It actively participates in numerous bodily functions, including metabolism and growth. Assessing Free T4 levels aids in diagnosing thyroid-related conditions such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. Furthermore, it can provide insights into female infertility issues. Typically, Free T4 is assessed concurrently with Free T3 and TSH to obtain a comprehensive view.