CfBS Basic Bloods Draw

This is a standard annual blood test to be completed at a local clinic by a nurse. When you complete your test, your blood is sent to the lab for processing. Your results are then sent to our registered nutritionist, who will contact you with your bespoke bloodwork report.

This kit tests for the following levels:

• Iron
• Ferritin
• Vitamin D (25-OH)
• Vitamin B12 (Total)
• Folate (Serum)
• Zinc (Plasma)
• Magnesium (Serum)
• Glycated Haemoglobin
• Calcium
• C-Reactive Protein (High Sensitivity)
• Thyroid Stimulating Hormone
• Free Thyroxine 4
• Free Triiodothyronine 3

What is the benefit of this specific kit:

This formal laboratory test covers the most commonly seen deficiencies and key health markers to help maintain your health and vitality.

Iron and Ferritin (your iron stores) levels often dip as the area for their absorption has been removed as part of the procedure. Depleted levels of either will directly cause and add to any existing symptoms of

• Fatigue
• Palpitations or shortness of breath.
• Headaches
• Light-headedness
• Hair loss

Folate and B12 absorption can also be significantly reduced post-surgery, and these two essential nutrients help to maintain energy whilst avoiding symptoms, including

• Irritability
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Fatigue
• Weakness
• Mouth ulcers
• Sore tongue

Low vitamin D levels are widespread in the general population, especially during the winter months, and unfortunately, any bariatric procedure will magnify such risks. Many people are asymptomatic when D levels are low, as a reduction in bone density rarely has any direct symptoms until a break is experienced. However, unexplained muscle weakness and mood changes are linked to sub-optimum levels.

Magnesium is one of nature’s anti-stress minerals, and maintaining healthy levels can help calm your nervous system, support mood & sleep, protect bone health, and aid constipation.

Glycated Haemoglobin– whilst the risks of type 2 diabetes are significantly reduced following surgery, an overview of glucose control can help to pinpoint any increased incidences of hypoglycaemia-related events in post-surgery patients and can explain several unwanted symptoms

• Rapid heartbeat
• Shaking
• Sweating
• Nervousness
• Irritability
• confusion
• Dizziness

CRP (high sensitivity) is a test often used to check for early signs of inflammation and infection. This is important as the usual Nonsteroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) used in such events are not recommended after surgery, as there is an increased risk of gastrointestinal concerns. Identifying any inflammatory states earlier can help to reduce such risks.

Maintaining calcium levels is paramount to health due to its role in nerve impulses, muscle contraction, blood vessel regulation and bone health. Whilst at lower levels, symptoms may not be obvious, any deficit in calcium can result in

• Muscle cramps
• Easy fracturing of the bones
• Memory problems
• Irritability
• Confusion
• Restlessness

Zinc absorption is impaired following surgery, which can be magnified by a lack of protein, often resulting in lowered levels. Although commonly considered an immune-boosting mineral, zinc is also essential to maintaining healthy thyroid functions and, therefore, metabolism.

Monitoring and maintaining optimum thyroid functions are essential for a healthy metabolism, and this test includes the three main thyroid elements– Thyroid Stimulating Hormone, Free Thyroxine T4 and Free Triiodothyronine T3.

What are the next steps?

Once you have placed your order, your details are sent to Viva Health Labs. They will process your order and issue an invoice for payment. Once payment has been received, your kit will be distributed to you with instructions on what to do next. Please note that if you live outside of the UK there is an additional charge of £30 payable to cover postage costs