Calcium is a mineral most often associated with healthy bones and teeth, although it also plays an important role in blood clotting, helping muscles to contract, and regulating normal heart rhythms and nerve functions.
What is it and how does it affect me?
Folate, or Vitamin B9, is a vitamin your body uses to make DNA, other genetic material, and red blood cells. Folate also plays an important role in the brain development of fetuses. The CDC recommends that reproductive aged women take Folate supplements to prevent birth defects.
What is it and how does it affect me?
Ferritin is a protein that stores iron and delivers it to different tissues in your body. Red blood cells use iron to carry oxygen around your body. Other parts of your body, such as your liver, bone marrow, and muscles, also need iron to function properly.
What is it and how does it affect me?
Magnesium is an important mineral, playing a role in over 300 enzyme reactions in the human body. Its many functions include helping with muscle and nerve function, regulating blood pressure, and supporting the immune system.
What is it and how does it affect me?
Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) plays an essential role in red blood cell formation, cell metabolism, nerve function and the production of DNA. Metformin is a common and effective treatment for diabetes and pre-diabetes, but may lower your B12 levels. Measuring B12 can help a care provider determine if metformin is an appropriate treatment option for you or if you could benefit from B12 supplements.
What is it and how does it affect me?
Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium and regulates many other functions in your body, including inflammation, antioxidants, and neuroprotection. Healthy Vitamin D levels are associated with improved mental health, endurance, muscle function, and bone strength. High levels of physical activity in athletes may increase the body’s demand for Vitamin D.