data/lab_markers/metabolic_panel.txt

Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)

GLUCOSE (Blood Sugar)
Normal Range: 70-100 mg/dL (fasting)
What it measures: Amount of sugar in your blood
High (Hyperglycemia): May indicate diabetes, prediabetes, stress, or certain medications
- Symptoms: Increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, blurred vision
- Dietary changes: Reduce refined carbs, increase fiber, choose whole grains
- Lifestyle: Regular exercise, maintain healthy weight, manage stress
Low (Hypoglycemia): May indicate insulin overproduction or certain medications
- Symptoms: Shakiness, sweating, confusion, hunger
- What to do: Eat small frequent meals, balance carbs with protein

CALCIUM
Normal Range: 8.5-10.5 mg/dL
What it measures: Calcium levels for bone health and muscle function
High: May indicate hyperparathyroidism, certain cancers, or excess vitamin D
Low: May indicate vitamin D deficiency, malabsorption, or kidney disease
Foods rich in calcium: Dairy products, leafy greens, fortified plant milk, sardines with bones

SODIUM
Normal Range: 135-145 mEq/L
What it measures: Electrolyte balance and hydration
High: Dehydration, excess salt intake, kidney problems
Low: Overhydration, heart failure, kidney disease, certain medications
Balance tips: Moderate salt intake, stay hydrated, eat potassium-rich foods

POTASSIUM
Normal Range: 3.5-5.0 mEq/L
What it measures: Electrolyte important for heart and muscle function
High: Kidney disease, certain medications, excess supplementation
Low: Diuretics, vomiting, diarrhea, poor diet
Foods high in potassium: Bananas, potatoes, spinach, beans, avocados

BUN (Blood Urea Nitrogen)
Normal Range: 7-20 mg/dL
What it measures: Kidney function
High: Dehydration, kidney disease, high protein diet
Low: Liver disease, malnutrition, overhydration

CREATININE
Normal Range: 0.7-1.3 mg/dL (men), 0.6-1.1 mg/dL (women)
What it measures: Kidney function
High: Kidney disease, dehydration, muscle injury
Low: Low muscle mass, malnutrition