I want to request testing by your laboratory, what do I have to do for this?

You will need to contact your doctor. Please tell your doctor to visit our website and to download our test kit order form (USA or outside USA), fill and sign it and submit it to our office together with a copy of his/her medical license. After that we will send a test kit to your doctor’s office.

I am a doctor and it is the first time I am going to send you samples. Should I send you my medical license?

Yes, please submit a copy of your medical license to our office by fax or e-mail.

The instruction sheet for Nagalase says to stop immune stimulants prior to testing. However, these are part of the treatment for the patient. Will these immune stimulants affect the result if they are not stopped for testing?

The immune stimulants decrease the Nagalase activity. We advise to draw blood for the Nagalase test just before the immune stimulant medication is given. If this medication is given once a week, as is mostly the case, then this will pose no problem. However, if a one week interval is not possible: at least try to use the same time period each time to have the best follow up.

The instruction sheet for the Methylation Pathway Panel says to stop medication (if possible) prior to testing. What kind of medication should be discontinued and for what time?

It would be better to stop intake of vitamin B6 and B12 for 48 hours before the blood draw since the high intake of these vitamins may affect the results.

Carotenoids

Carotenoids are organic pigments found in various plants, algae, and photosynthetic bacteria. They are responsible for the vibrant red, orange, and yellow colors seen in many fruits, vegetables, and other natural sources. Carotenoids are not only important for the visual appeal of these foods but also play a significant role in human health.

One of the most well-known carotenoids is beta-carotene, which is a precursor of vitamin A. When you consume foods rich in beta-carotene, your body can convert it into active vitamin A as needed. Vitamin A is crucial for maintaining healthy vision, supporting the immune system, and promoting proper skin health.

Beyond beta-carotene, there are many other carotenoids that offer potential health benefits. Some of these include:

Lutein and Zeaxanthin:

Lutein and Zeaxanthin are found in green leafy vegetables and certain colorful fruits, these carotenoids are especially concentrated in the retina of the eye. Lutein and zeaxanthin, are particularly beneficial for eye health. They are concentrated in the retina and macula of the eyes and help protect against age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataracts. These carotenoids filter out harmful high-energy light waves and reduce oxidative damage to the eyes.

Lycopene:

Lycopene presents in tomatoes, watermelon, pink grapefruit, and other red and pink fruits, lycopene is an antioxidant that has been linked to potential benefits for heart health and reducing the risk of certain cancers, particularly prostate cancer.

Alpha-Carotene:

Alpha-carotene is Similar to beta-carotene, this carotenoid can also be converted into vitamin A. It is found in orange and yellow vegetables and is associated with various health benefits, including supporting the immune system.

Beta- Cryptoxanthin:

Beta- Cryptoxanthin is found in fruits like mangos, oranges, peaches, and papayas, cryptoxanthin is another precursor to vitamin A and may contribute to overall antioxidant protection.

Astaxanthin:

Astaxanthin is a natural red pigment and a powerful antioxidant belonging to the carotenoid family. It’s found in certain marine organisms, microalgae, and seafood, giving them their distinctive red or pink color. Astaxanthin has gained attention for its potential health benefits due to its strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Carotenoids are best absorbed when consumed with a small amount of dietary fat, as they are fat-soluble compounds. Including a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables in your diet can help you obtain a broad spectrum of carotenoids, each with its own potential health benefits. However, like all nutrients, balance is key, and it’s important to remember that getting nutrients from whole foods is generally more beneficial than relying solely on supplements.

It is recommended to check carotenoid profile together with Vitamin A test to get a complete picture of Vitamin A status.

Sample requirement: 1 mL frozen serum.