How Do We Understand Our Metabolic Health Status?

Several molecules in the body are related to metabolic health. These include:

Glucose: Glucose is a sugar that is a primary source of energy for the body. High levels of glucose in the blood (hyperglycemia) are a marker of poor metabolic health and are associated with an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes and other metabolic disorders.

Insulin: Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that regulates the uptake of glucose by cells. Insulin resistance, a condition in which cells become resistant to the effects of insulin, is a marker of poor metabolic health and is associated with an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Lipids: Lipids, including cholesterol and triglycerides, are fats that are important for many functions in the body. High levels of lipids in the blood (hyperlipidemia) are a marker of poor metabolic health and are associated with an increased risk of developing heart disease and other metabolic disorders.

Adipokines: Adipokines are signaling molecules produced by fat cells that play a role in regulating metabolism. Changes in adipokine levels have been linked to obesity and other metabolic disorders.

Inflammatory markers: Inflammation is a normal part of the body's response to injury or infection, but chronic inflammation is associated with poor metabolic health and an increased risk of developing chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes. Markers of inflammation, such as C-reactive protein (CRP), are often used to assess metabolic health.

Hormones: Hormones, including thyroid hormones and cortisol, play a role in regulating metabolism. Abnormalities in hormone levels can be a marker of poor metabolic health.

Overall, these and other molecules in the body are closely related to metabolic health, and changes in their levels or activity can be used to evaluate metabolic health status and guide interventions to improve metabolic health.