This test measures blood levels of retinol (vitamin A). Vitamin A is an essential nutrient, which means that you must get it from your diet.
Meat and offal provide vitamin A as retinol, while vegetable and fruit sources provide carotene, which must be converted to vitamin A to be used by the body. Vitamin A is also involved in regulating immunity and has an essential role in preventing autoimmune disease, asthma, and allergies.
Vitamin A is essential for vision, skin, mucous membrane integrity, the immune system, cell formation and fertility. Excessive vitamin A can cause toxicity and is particularly dangerous for pregnant women and the foetus. It also increases the risk of osteoporosis. This is mainly a problem with synthetic, supplemental vitamin A.
This test requires a blood draw, which can be done at your local clinic. It will be analysed by an accredited lab, such as Karolinska, Aleris, or Unilabs. The first results are usually available within 48h.
What happens next?
The lab sends the results to your personal dashboard, with comments from both a doctor and a nutritionist. If results are abnormal, we recommend seeing a doctor and, if appropriate, booking an appointment with a Nordic Wellth nutrition lifestyle specialist.
You may need to make lifestyle and dietary changes.