Know your numbers
Biomarkers without obsession.
The goal of measurement is better decisions — not collecting the largest possible laboratory panel.
Start with clinically useful basics
| Area | Examples to discuss with a clinician |
|---|---|
| Blood pressure | Repeated, properly measured readings and home trends when appropriate |
| Lipids | Standard lipid panel; additional markers when clinically useful |
| Glucose regulation | Fasting glucose and/or HbA1c depending on context |
| Body composition | Weight trend, waist measures, strength/function; specialized testing when useful |
Three rules for dashboards
- Know why you are measuring it.
- Know what action would follow an abnormal result.
- Interpret trends and tests in medical context rather than treating internet “optimal ranges” as diagnoses.
Do not start, stop or change medication based on a consumer dashboard or a single lab result without appropriate medical advice.