Albumin
What is Albumin?
Albumin is a type of protein that your body makes in the liver. It's one of the most common proteins in your blood and serves various critical bodily functions. It helps keep fluid from leaking out of blood vessels, carries various substances through the bloodstream, and helps your body grow and repair tissues.
Why is it measured?
There are various intents of albumin analysis:
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Nutritional Analysis: If your albumin levels are low, it could mean that you're not getting enough protein in your diet, or your body is not absorbing food properly.
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Liver Health: Because albumin is made in the liver, if levels are low, it could mean your liver isn't working well. Check with your provider regarding further information.
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Kidney Health: Kidneys are how the body retains albumin. If a lot of albumin is found in your urine, it may mean your kidneys aren't working correctly. Ask your provider for more information.
- Hormonal Balance: One of the most important functions of Albumin is to carry hormones such as testosterone around the body. If your doctor wants to run tests on your Free/Bioavailable testosterone levels, they will typically analyze your albumin count.
How can I better understand my results?
Low levels can be a sign of malnutrition, due to a lack of protein and calories. Lack of Albumin may also be caused by burns or infections. In some cases, it is the cause of pre-existing health conditions, but it could also be a sign of a more serious health issue. For information about these, talk to your doctor about your albumin levels.
High levels are fairly uncommon and may mean that your body is dehydrated. Just as low levels could be a sign of little protein, high levels might indicate an abundance of it. It can also be caused by the use of anabolic steroids and other supplements.
Where can I learn more?
Free and Bioavailable Testosterone Calculator
DISCLAIMER: IF YOU ARE CONCERNED WITH ANY OF YOUR RESULTS, PLEASE CONSULT YOUR PROVIDER