What it is
The Advanced Iron Profile is a finger prick blood test that identifies and monitors iron excess or deficiency, as well as sex hormones and B12, which can contribute to issues such as low energy, low libido, weight changes and mood fluctuations.
How it helps
The profile assesses levels of iron, ferritin, UIBC (Unsaturated Iron Binding Capacity), TIBC (Total Iron Binding Capacity) and transferrin saturation, as well as folate and active B12. It also assesses levels of oestradiol, progesterone, SHBG and testosterone.
These hormones can impact iron absorption, so by measuring them alongside key iron markers, the Advanced Iron Profile gives a bigger picture of iron levels, and why they might be at the wrong level.
This profile is also suitable for anyone who would like to investigate their health for overall wellbeing.
Benefits
- Identifies and monitors iron excess or deficiency
- Measures sex hormones that can affect iron absorption
- Includes active B12 and folate
- Convenient finger prick sample taken at home
Important information
Test markers
Biochemistry: Iron, Ferritin, UIBC, TIBC, Transferrin Saturation
Hormones: Oestradiol (venous sample only), Testosterone, SHBG, Progesterone
Vitamins: B12 – Active, Serum Folate
How it works
- Fast for eight hours before taking the test, while staying hydrated.
- Drink five hundred millilitres of water half an hour before taking the test – before breakfast is ideal.
- Check you have all your kit (see the full list in the instructions).
- Wash your hands in warm water for four minutes, then dry them.
- Follow the step by step instructions provided.
- Label the sample correctly and send it in the envelope provided via Royal Mail.
- Post the same morning after collecting your sample.
Need oestradiol? You must book a venous blood draw
Since the end of July two thousand and twenty-three, a finger prick test is no longer possible for this marker. A venous blood draw is essential to test oestradiol, due to a change stipulated by UKAS (the accreditation body for testing services). If this marker is required, a venous blood draw must be booked with a phlebotomist, who must supply the appropriate kit (SST / Gold Top venepuncture). Contact us for phlebotomy services – our partner will be able to support you. If you wish to test without this marker, you can still use the included finger prick kit.
Essential information
- Use this guide to get a successful finger prick sample and ensure your sample is viable for analysis.
- To give you complete confidence in a valid sample, we recommend a blood draw.
- This finger prick test is recommended for ages eighteen and over. Please book a blood draw for under eighteens at your GP phlebotomy department.
- Read our policy on retests, replacement kits and failed samples.
View finger prick instructions • Download sample report • View interpretation guide
This test is only available through your Healthpath Pro practitioner (Tamara at Breathe360).
Laboratory: Eurofins Clinical Diagnostics
Eurofins Clinical Diagnostics is an accredited clinical diagnostic laboratory, offering clinical diagnostic testing and phlebotomy services to practitioners and patients. It is committed to providing a high quality service based on the standards set by UKAS and the Care Quality Commission, and is accredited to UKAS 15189 standards. All services are overseen by a consultant with suitable specialist qualifications, and each test is regularly assessed against internal quality control samples and external quality assurance samples, with performance peer reviewed.
Disclaimer
Our products and services do not diagnose, treat or cure any illness or disease, and do not replace medical advice from your doctor or practitioner. Food supplements should not be used as a substitute for a varied diet. Information on this website is for educational purposes only and does not replace personalised medical advice. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, taking prescribed medication or have a medical condition, please consult your healthcare practitioner before starting any new supplement.