Weight Loss Starter Screen blood test in Chiswick

What the test measures

Starting a weight loss plan is easier when you know where you are beginning. This screen measures glucose, HbA1c, insulin, C-peptide and HOMA-IR, an estimate of insulin resistance, along with a cholesterol profile including ApoB and lipoprotein (a). Liver markers help show signs of fatty liver, and kidney markers, electrolytes and bone chemistry give a safety baseline.

Hormones that can affect weight are included, with a thyroid profile with antibodies, FSH, LH, oestradiol, prolactin, testosterone, SHBG, the free androgen index and cortisol. A full blood count, iron, B12, folate and vitamin D complete the panel, as these can fall when eating less.

Your price includes the sample taken at our Chiswick clinic, analysis at the Randox accredited laboratory, a practitioner review of your result and a GP feedback report on request. Your practitioner can share the results with your prescriber or coach if you wish.

Who it is for

• You are about to start a weight loss programme or medication and want a baseline.
• You have struggled to lose weight and want thyroid, insulin and hormones checked.
• You have a family history of type 2 diabetes or heart disease.
• You have irregular periods or other signs that hormones may be affecting your weight.
• You want to make sure your nutrient levels are healthy before reducing what you eat.

Understanding your result

Each value sits beside the laboratory reference range. A raised insulin or HOMA-IR suggests insulin resistance, and a raised HbA1c may point to pre-diabetes or diabetes. Raised liver enzymes can reflect fatty liver, which often improves with weight loss. Thyroid, cortisol and sex hormone results help show whether another factor is involved.

These results give a starting point to compare with later tests. A result outside the range is a prompt for discussion with your practitioner, not a diagnosis.

Preparing for your test

Fast for 8 to 10 hours with water only, as glucose, insulin, C-peptide and triglycerides need a fasting sample. Book a morning appointment, ideally before 10am, because cortisol and testosterone are highest in the morning. Women with a regular cycle are often tested on day 2 to 5, and we will confirm timing when you book. Biotin supplements are best paused for two days, if that is safe for you.

To focus on blood sugar, see our HbA1c and insulin resistance tests. Thyroid can also be tested on its own with our thyroid tests. For the wider range, see every blood test and price in Chiswick.

Questions

How much is a Weight Loss Starter Screen in Chiswick?

The Weight Loss Starter Screen costs £239. It includes your blood sample at our Chiswick clinic, analysis at the Randox accredited laboratory, a practitioner review and a GP feedback report on request.

Should I take this before starting weight loss medication?

It is a useful baseline, and some prescribers ask for blood tests before starting. Your prescriber will tell you which tests they need.

Do I need to fast?

Yes. Fast for 8 to 10 hours with water only, and book a morning appointment for the most accurate results.

What is HOMA-IR?

HOMA-IR is calculated from fasting glucose and insulin and gives an estimate of insulin resistance, which is often linked to weight gain.