Adiponectin blood test in Chiswick

What the test measures

Adiponectin is a protein hormone made by fat cells. Unlike many signals from fat tissue, it tends to be helpful: it improves the way muscle and liver cells respond to insulin, supports the breakdown of fats and has anti-inflammatory effects on blood vessels. Somewhat surprisingly, levels are usually lower in people who carry more weight, particularly around the waist, and higher in people who are leaner and more active.

Because of this, adiponectin is studied as a marker of metabolic health and insulin resistance. It is not part of routine NHS testing and has no single cut-off used to diagnose a condition, so it is most informative when read alongside glucose, HbA1c, insulin and cholesterol rather than on its own.

The price includes the blood sample at our Chiswick clinic, analysis at the Randox accredited laboratory, a practitioner review of your result and a GP feedback report on request.

Who it is for

• You are working on weight or waist size and want a deeper look at your metabolic health.
• You have been told you may be insulin resistant or have prediabetes.
• You have a family history of type 2 diabetes or heart disease.
• You want a baseline before changing your diet, activity or sleep, so you can compare later.
• Your practitioner has suggested it alongside other metabolic markers.

Understanding your result

Your report shows the laboratory reference range. A lower adiponectin level is generally associated with insulin resistance, central weight gain and a less favourable metabolic picture. A higher level is usually associated with better insulin sensitivity, though very high levels can be seen in some conditions, including kidney disease, so context matters. Women tend to have higher levels than men.

Levels often rise with weight loss, regular exercise and improved sleep, which is why some people use the test to track change over time. Any result outside the range is a prompt for discussion with your practitioner, not a diagnosis.

Preparing for your test

Adiponectin itself is not strongly affected by food, but if you are having glucose, insulin or cholesterol tested at the same appointment, fast for 8 to 10 hours beforehand, drinking only water. A morning appointment keeps conditions consistent if you plan to repeat the test. We confirm any preparation when you book.

Adiponectin is included in Advanced GP2 (£198) and Advanced GP3 (£327), which add a wide range of other markers. For sugar control, see our HbA1c and diabetes tests, or browse every blood test and price in Chiswick.

Questions

How much is an adiponectin blood test in Chiswick?

The Adiponectin test costs £189 at Omnia Lifestyle in Chiswick. It covers the blood sample, accredited laboratory analysis, a review with a practitioner and a GP feedback report if requested.

Is low adiponectin a diagnosis of diabetes?

No. Diabetes is diagnosed with tests such as HbA1c and glucose. A low adiponectin level suggests your metabolism may be under strain and is a reason to look at those markers too.

Can I raise my adiponectin?

Levels tend to improve with losing excess weight, regular physical activity and good sleep. Your practitioner can talk through realistic changes.

How often should I test?

If you are making lifestyle changes, a repeat after three to six months can show the direction of travel. There is no need to test frequently.