Metabolic Tests

Metabolic tests measure how your body uses fuel—carbs, fats, and proteins—and how that affects energy, weight, and long-term health. These labs look at blood sugar control (A1c, glucose, insulin)cholesterol and particlesliver and kidney functioninflammation, and uric acid.

A proactive plan starts with a core screen (A1c or fasting glucose, lipid panel, comprehensive metabolic panel), then adds fasting insulin (insulin resistance), ApoB (particle number), urine albumin-creatinine (early kidney risk), and hs-CRP(low-grade inflammation) when helpful. Results support screeningdiagnosis where appropriate, and monitoring—but they do not replace a clinician’s evaluation, blood-pressure checks, or imaging when indicated.

Signs, Symptoms & Related Situations

  • Everyday clues: fatigue, mid-day crashes, carb cravings, weight gain around the abdomen, difficulty losing weight

  • Sugar balance: frequent thirst/urination, blurry vision, tingling in hands/feet, darkened skin patches (acanthosis)

  • Lipid & liver: high triglycerides, prior “fatty liver” mention, family history of early heart attack or stroke

  • Kidney & vascular: long-standing high blood pressure, swelling in feet/ankles

  • Inflammation & gout: sore joints (especially big toe), high uric acid history

  • Urgent care now: chest pain, severe shortness of breath, fainting, confusion, or one-sided weakness

Symptoms and risk factors require clinician evaluation.

Why These Tests Matter

What testing can do

  • Quantify risk for diabetes, heart disease, and fatty liver by measuring glucose control, particle burden, and organ health

  • Uncover insulin resistance early to guide prevention and follow-up

  • Track trends after lifestyle changes or therapy to confirm progress and safety

What testing cannot do

  • Diagnose from a single value without context

  • Replace blood-pressure management, physical exams, or imaging (e.g., liver ultrasound) when indicated

  • Predict events with certainty—patterns over time matter most

What These Tests Measure (at a glance)

  • A1c (glycated hemoglobin): average glucose over ~3 months; complements fasting glucose. Anemia or hemoglobin variants can affect results—interpret with your clinician.

  • Fasting Glucose ± 2-hr Glucose (OGTT): current glucose handling; OGTT helps when A1c and fasting results disagree.

  • Fasting Insulin (± HOMA-IR): context for insulin resistance; best interpreted with glucose and lipids. Assays vary; use trends.

  • Lipid Panel & non-HDL-C: cholesterol and triglycerides; non-HDL-C reflects all atherogenic cholesterol.

  • Apolipoprotein B (ApoB): counts atherogenic particle number; clarifies risk when triglycerides are high or LDL-C looks “acceptable.”

  • Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP): AST/ALT (liver), electrolytescreatinine/eGFR (kidneys). ALTtrends can reflect fatty-liver risk in context.

  • Urine Albumin-to-Creatinine Ratio (ACR): early kidney and vascular injury signal—even when eGFR is normal.

  • High-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP): low-grade inflammation; trend over time (illness and hard training can spike results).

  • Uric Acid: gout risk and metabolic-syndrome context; interpret with symptoms and kidney function.

  • Optional adds (as directed): ApoA-ILp(a) (genetic lipid), GGTvitamin Dthyroid (TSH) for metabolic look-alikes.

Quick Build Guide

Goal Start with Add if needed
General metabolic screen A1c/Glucose • Lipid Panel • CMP ApoB • ACR • hs-CRP
Insulin resistance focus A1c/Glucose • Lipid Panel Fasting Insulin (± HOMA-IR) • ApoB • ACR
Fatty liver risk CMP (ALT/AST) • Lipid Panel • A1c GGT • ACR • ApoB
Cardiometabolic risk refinement Lipid Panel • A1c/Glucose ApoB • hs-CRP • Lp(a)
Kidney/HTN context A1c/Glucose • CMP Urine ACR • eGFR trend • Uric Acid
Mixed or discordant results Repeat core labs OGTT • ApoB • hs-CRP

How the Testing Process Works

  1. Choose your starting panel: at minimum A1c/GlucoseLipid Panel, and CMP.

  2. Add precision markers: ApoB for particle number, fasting insulin for resistance, ACR and hs-CRP for kidney/inflammation context.

  3. Prepare for accuracy: follow any fasting instructions; schedule on a recovery day; keep supplements consistent unless your order lists holds (biotin can affect some assays).

  4. Get your draw: visit a nearby patient service center; results post securely in your account.

  5. Review & plan: discuss results with your clinician and set a retest cadence—often 3–6 months after changes, then periodically.

Interpreting Results (General Guidance)

  • A1c + fasting glucose: together show average and snapshot control; unexpected combos may prompt OGTT.

  • Fasting insulin (± HOMA-IR): rising trends can indicate insulin resistance even before A1c changes.

  • Lipids & ApoB: if ApoB is high despite “okay” LDL-C, particle burden may still be elevated.

  • ALT/AST and GGT: persistent elevations need clinician review; consider fatty-liver risk and medications.

  • ACR & eGFR: even small ACR increases matter for vascular risk; track over time.

  • hs-CRP: interpret trends; retest after illness or hard workouts.
    Always interpret results with a qualified healthcare professional.

Choosing Panels vs. Individual Tests

  • Starter set (most adults): A1c/Glucose + Lipid Panel + CMP

  • Risk refinement: ApoB + ACR + hs-CRP (± Fasting Insulin)

  • Discordant picture: OGTT to clarify glucose handling; consider Lp(a) once for genetic risk

  • Ongoing monitoring: repeat the same methods to track trends after lifestyle or therapy changes

FAQs

Do I need to fast?
Often yes for lipidsglucose, and insulin. Follow the instructions on your order.

What’s the difference between A1c and fasting glucose?
A1c reflects your 3-month averagefasting glucose is a single-day snapshot. Both together give better context.

Should I check insulin if my A1c is normal?
It can help reveal early insulin resistance, especially with belly fat, high TGs, or strong family history.

Can these tests diagnose metabolic syndrome?
They measure the components (waist size, BP, lipids, glucose), but the diagnosis is clinical—made by your clinician using all data.

How often should I retest?
Commonly every 3–6 months after changes, then 6–12 months once stable. Your clinician will personalize timing.

Will hard workouts or illness affect results?
Yes—both can shift triglycerides and hs-CRP. Aim for a recovery-day draw.

Do supplements or meds interfere?
Some can. Biotin may affect certain assays. List all medications and supplements on your order.

Related Categories & Key Tests

  • Hormone Tests Hub

  • Diabetes Health • Insulin Resistance • Cardiovascular Disease Tests • Cholesterol Tests • Kidney Health • Liver Function Tests • Thyroid Testing

  • Key Tests : A1c • Fasting Glucose • OGTT (2-hr glucose) • Fasting Insulin (± HOMA-IR) • Lipid Panel & non-HDL-C • ApoB • CMP (ALT/AST, electrolytes, creatinine/eGFR) • Urine ACR • hs-CRP • Uric Acid • GGT • Lp(a) (once)

References

  • American Diabetes Association — Standards of Care in Diabetes (A1c, glucose, and screening).
  • American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association — Lipid management and cardiovascular risk assessment.
  • National Lipid Association — Guidance on ApoB and advanced lipoproteins.
  • AASLD — Practice guidance on metabolic dysfunction–associated fatty liver disease.
  • KDIGO — Chronic kidney disease evaluation and albumin-creatinine testing.
  • AHA/CDC — Inflammation markers and cardiovascular risk.

Available Tests & Panels

Your Metabolic Tests menu is pre-populated in the Ulta Lab Tests system. Start with A1c/Glucose, Lipid Panel, and CMP, then add ApoBfasting insulinurine ACRhs-CRPuric acid, or OGTT as needed. Follow any fasting/timing instructions, and review results with your clinician to personalize prevention and monitoring.

  • Page
  • 2
  • of
  • 3
  • Total Rows
  • 57
Name Matches

The Comprehensive Metabolic Panel without CO2 and ALT evaluates glucose, calcium, electrolytes, kidney function markers, and liver-related proteins. This panel helps assess fluid and electrolyte balance, nutritional status, and metabolic activity while monitoring organ health. Excluding CO2 and ALT, it remains a useful tool for identifying imbalances and guiding clinical interpretation of systemic health.

Blood
Blood Draw

The Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) Plasma Test measures 21 markers of kidney, liver, and metabolic health, including electrolytes, glucose, calcium, proteins, and enzymes. Doctors order this test to evaluate conditions like diabetes, liver disease, and kidney disorders or to monitor treatment. Results provide critical insight into organ function, electrolyte balance, and overall metabolic status, guiding diagnosis, management, and preventive health care.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: CMP Plasma Test, Plasma Chem Test

Most Popular

The Creatinine Test measures creatinine levels in blood to evaluate kidney function and filtration efficiency. Elevated levels may indicate kidney disease, dehydration, or muscle disorders, while low levels may reflect reduced muscle mass. Doctors use this test to monitor chronic kidney disease (CKD), assess treatment response, and detect early signs of renal impairment. It provides key insight into kidney health, metabolic balance, and overall renal function.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Blood Creatinine Test, Serum Creatinine Test

The Electrolyte Panel Test measures sodium, potassium, chloride, and carbon dioxide in blood to evaluate fluid balance, kidney function, and acid-base status. Abnormal results may indicate dehydration, kidney disease, adrenal disorders, or respiratory issues. Doctors use this test to investigate symptoms such as weakness, confusion, or irregular heartbeat. Results provide essential insight into electrolyte balance, hydration, and overall metabolic and organ health.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Lytes Panel, Anion Gap Panel, Electrolyte Test, Lytes Test, Anion Gap Test

Most Popular

The GGT Test measures gamma-glutamyl transferase, an enzyme found in the liver and bile ducts, to evaluate liver health. Elevated GGT may indicate liver disease, bile duct obstruction, alcohol use, or medication side effects. Doctors order this test to investigate symptoms like fatigue, jaundice, dark urine, or abdominal pain and to monitor liver damage. It is often performed with other liver tests to provide a complete picture of liver and bile duct function.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Gamma Glutamyl Transferase Test, Gamma Glutamyl TransPeptidase Test, GGTP Test, GTP Test

Most Popular

The Glucose Test measures blood sugar levels to evaluate energy metabolism and screen for diabetes or prediabetes. Abnormal glucose may indicate hyperglycemia, hypoglycemia, or metabolic disorders. Doctors use this test during routine exams, to investigate symptoms like fatigue, excessive thirst, or frequent urination, and to monitor treatment for diabetes. It provides essential insight into how the body regulates blood sugar and overall metabolic health.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Fasting Glucose Test, Fasting Blood Sugar Test

The Gestational Glucose Tolerance Test, 3 Specimens, 75g evaluates glucose metabolism during pregnancy by testing fasting, 1-hour, and 2-hour blood glucose following a 75-gram glucose solution. It is widely used to diagnose gestational diabetes and assess maternal insulin function. Monitoring three intervals provides clinicians with essential information about pregnancy-related metabolic health and risk factors.

Blood
Blood Draw

The Gestational Glucose Tolerance Test, 4 Specimens, 100g evaluates maternal blood sugar response at fasting, 1, 2, and 3 hours following a 100-gram glucose drink. It is widely used to detect gestational diabetes and impaired glucose regulation in pregnancy. By assessing four time points, the test delivers valuable data on insulin activity, maternal metabolism, and risks that may affect both mother and baby.

Blood
Blood Draw

Blood
Blood Draw

The Glucose Plasma Test measures the amount of glucose in the blood to assess how the body regulates sugar. Abnormal results may indicate diabetes, prediabetes, hypoglycemia, or other metabolic disorders. Doctors order this test for patients with symptoms like fatigue, excessive thirst, or frequent urination. It is also commonly used for routine health screening, monitoring diabetes treatment, and guiding lifestyle or medication adjustments.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: FPG Test, Fasting Plasma Glucose Test, Fasting Blood Sugar Test

The Glucose Random Test evaluates glucose levels in the blood without requiring fasting, making it useful for detecting abnormal sugar regulation. Elevated or low results may suggest diabetes, prediabetes, or hypoglycemia. This test supports assessment of metabolic function, carbohydrate processing, and systemic health, offering insight into symptoms like thirst, frequent urination, or unexplained fatigue.

Also Known As: Non-Fasting Glucose Test

The Hepatic Function Panel Test measures liver enzymes, proteins, and bilirubin to assess liver health and function. It includes ALT, AST, ALP, albumin, total protein, and bilirubin levels. Abnormal results may indicate hepatitis, cirrhosis, fatty liver, or bile duct problems. Doctors use this test to investigate jaundice, nausea, abdominal pain, or fatigue and to monitor liver disease, alcohol use, or medication side effects affecting liver function.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Liver Function Panel Test, LFT

The Liver Function Panel, also known as a Hepatic Function Panel, measures proteins, enzymes, and bilirubin to assess liver health and function. It helps detect liver disease, monitor liver conditions, and evaluate the effects of medications or other factors on liver performance.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Hepatic Function Panel Test, HFP Test

Most Popular

The Lipid Panel Test checks six key blood lipids: total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, non-HDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and the Chol/HDL ratio. This panel assesses risk for cardiovascular disease, heart attack, and stroke by evaluating cholesterol balance and fat levels in the blood. Doctors use lipid panel results for routine screening, treatment monitoring, and guiding lifestyle or medication adjustments.

Also Known As:  Lipid Profile Test, Cholesterol Panel Test, Lipids Blood Test 

The Lymphocyte Subset Panel 4 Test measures CD4+ and CD8+ T-cell percentages and absolute counts, along with the CD4/CD8 ratio and total lymphocyte level. These parameters are vital for evaluating immune function in HIV, immunodeficiency, or therapy response, helping track helper and cytotoxic T-cell balance, immune suppression, and immune recovery.

Blood
Blood Draw

The OmegaCheck® Test measures omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in blood, including EPA, DHA, and arachidonic acid, to assess cardiovascular and overall health. Results provide the Omega-3 Index, which is linked to heart health, inflammation, and brain function. Doctors use this test to evaluate dietary balance, identify deficiency or excess, and guide nutrition or lifestyle changes that support long-term cardiovascular and metabolic wellness.

Also Known As: Omega 3 and 6 Fatty Acids Test

The Comprehensive Organic Acids Quantitative Urine Test analyzes a broad spectrum of metabolites—organic acids—in urine to assess metabolic pathway function. By quantifying markers of detoxification, mitochondrial energy, and microbial metabolism, this test can help detect inborn errors, mitochondrial dysfunction, or dysbiosis.

Urine
Urine Collection
Also Known As: Organic Acids, Comprehensive, Quantitative, Urine Test

The Oxalic Acid 24 Hour Urine Test measures urinary oxalate excretion to evaluate risk for kidney stone formation and metabolic disorders. Elevated oxalic acid may indicate primary or secondary hyperoxaluria, malabsorption syndromes, or dietary imbalance. By tracking oxalate output over 24 hours, this test provides valuable insight into urinary health, metabolic function, and conditions that impact calcium oxalate stone development.

Urine
Urine Collection

The Oxalic Acid Random Urine Test measures urinary oxalate levels to evaluate risk of kidney stone formation and metabolic disorders. Elevated oxalate may result from dietary factors, intestinal malabsorption, or primary hyperoxaluria, while low levels may reflect dietary deficiency or altered metabolism. This test supports assessment of urinary chemistry, renal health, and metabolic balance in stone disease evaluation.

Urine
Urine Collection

Most Popular

The Oxidized LDL Test measures oxidized low-density lipoprotein levels in blood, a key marker of cardiovascular risk. High oxidized LDL is linked to atherosclerosis, plaque buildup, and heart disease. Doctors order this test to evaluate patients with high cholesterol, metabolic syndrome, or family history of heart disease. Results provide vital insight into oxidative stress, arterial health, and overall cardiovascular risk management.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Oxidized Low-Density Lipoprotein Test, OxLDL Test

The Potassium Test measures potassium levels in blood to evaluate electrolyte balance, kidney function, and overall metabolic health. Abnormal results may indicate dehydration, kidney disease, adrenal disorders, or complications from certain medications. Doctors order this test for patients with weakness, irregular heartbeat, or high blood pressure. Results help diagnose hyperkalemia or hypokalemia and guide treatment to restore proper heart and muscle function.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: K Test

The Protein Total Serum Test evaluates total protein concentration, reflecting both albumin and globulin, which play key roles in immune response, liver function, and nutrient transport. Abnormal findings may signal malnutrition, kidney or liver disease, or chronic inflammatory conditions. This test aids in assessing protein metabolism, systemic health, and overall physiological balance.

Blood
Blood Draw

The Sodium Test measures sodium levels in the blood, an electrolyte essential for fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle activity. Abnormal sodium may indicate dehydration, kidney disease, adrenal disorders, or heart failure. Doctors use this test to investigate symptoms like confusion, weakness, or swelling and to monitor patients with chronic illnesses, diuretic use, or intravenous therapy, ensuring proper electrolyte and metabolic health.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Na Test, Sodium Serum Test

The StoneRisk® Panel evaluates urinary and serum biomarkers linked to kidney stone formation, including calcium, oxalate, uric acid, citrate, and other metabolic factors. This test provides a comprehensive assessment of urinary chemistry to identify contributors to nephrolithiasis. Results help determine stone type risk, guide prevention strategies, and support long-term kidney health management.

Varied
Phlebotomist
Also Known As: StoneRisk® Diagnostic Profile

The Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) Test measures urea nitrogen levels in blood to assess kidney function and how well the body removes waste. Elevated BUN may indicate kidney disease, dehydration, heart failure, or high protein intake, while low levels may suggest liver disease or malnutrition. Doctors order this test to evaluate fatigue, swelling, or abnormal lab results. Results help diagnose kidney and liver conditions and guide treatment decisions.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: BUN Test, Blood Urea Nitrogen Test

Lab Tests to Identify and Monitor Metabolic Disorders

More than one in three adults in the United States has metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome is a condition identified by the inability of the body's metabolic system to work properly. In sum, it is a collection of metabolic disorders.

Considering that metabolic disorders are so common, it's likely that you or someone you know has a metabolic disorder of some kind. These disorders can make it harder to control weight and energy.

To learn more about metabolic disorders and what metabolic tests you can take for them, keep reading.

What Are Metabolic Disorders?

By definition, a metabolic disorder is a condition in which the body's metabolism isn't functioning correctly. This broad categorization means that there is a wide range of classifications, causes, symptoms, and treatments.

Metabolism is the collection of processes that turn food into energy. These processes are chemical and hormonal, meaning that they can affect the whole body. 

Given that metabolism is a collection of many processes, different kinds of metabolic disorders can arise when different processes aren't working correctly.

A metabolic disorder may form from an incorrect enzyme, a faulty energy system, or a diseased organ.

Risk Factors for Metabolic Disorders

Unfortunately, there isn't a way to completely prevent metabolic disorders. The majority of these conditions are genetic.

Given that the true cause of these disorders is unknown, there is no way to determine absolute risk factors.

However, there are a few correlations that physicians and scientists have made. From those correlations, the medical community has determined that the risk factors for type II diabetes are closely tied to patients who have metabolic disorders.

Here are those risk factors:

  • Excess body fat
  • Unhealthy diet
  • Inactivity
  • Dehydration

By taking care of your body, you may improve your symptoms associated with metabolic syndrome. If it feels like your condition has hijacked your body, you may need to speak with your healthcare provider about further interventions.

Causes of Metabolic Disorders

As we briefly mentioned, there is no definitive cause for most metabolic disorders. Most of these conditions are passed down through genetics.

Our genes tell our bodies how to perform certain metabolic processes. Sometimes, these genes mutate and give incorrect directions, causing a changed enzyme or incorrect chemical to perform metabolic processes. 

If a mutation happens somewhere in the genetic line, that mutation can go down to offspring for generations.

Few metabolic disorders aren't passed down through genetics. These likely occur because of a disease process in the body or a damaged organ or gland. The most common examples are the pancreas in diabetes and the thyroid in thyroid disorders. 

Patients with these kinds of metabolic issues can find some relief with treatment. However, there is no guarantee that the patient's symptoms will be completely relieved with the treatment of their condition.

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Metabolic Disorders?

Because metabolic disorders affect the entire body, their symptoms are widespread and plentiful. The signs that you may notice will depend on the kind of metabolic disorder you have.

For example, patients with Graves disease (an autoimmune disease of the thyroid associated with hyperthyroidism) may lose weight with their metabolic disorder. On the other hand, patients with Hashimoto's thyroiditis (an autoimmune disease of the thyroid associated with hypothyroidism) may gain weight with their metabolic disorder.

Here are the common signs and symptoms for all kinds of metabolic disorders:

  • Unintended weight loss
  • Unexpected weight gain
  • Chronic lack of energy
  • Abdominal pain
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Decreased appetite
  • Feeling hungry and thirsty despite already eating and drinking
  • Changes to the skin such as color changes, bruising easily, thinning, and healing slowly

Children and babies with metabolic disorders may experience developmental delays. You may notice that they aren't reaching developmental milestones like their peers are.

How Are Metabolic Disorders Diagnosed?

First, your healthcare provider will talk to you about any family history you may have of metabolic disorders. Then, they'll evaluate the symptoms that you're presenting.

From there, the physician may choose to order metabolic blood tests to see if the chemicals and hormones in your blood are at optimal levels. These tests will also give them insight into how to help you control your disorder if you have one.

The Lab Tests to Screen, Diagnose, and Monitor Metabolic Disorders

At Ulta Lab Tests, we have extensive testing for metabolic disorders. We test for all of the following biomarkers:

By getting all of these tests done, you'll be able to know more about your body. In turn, you can make better decisions about your health and understand your metabolic pathway better.

Get Your Metabolic Tests With Ulta Lab Tests

If you believe that you could have a metabolic disorder, you should order metabolic lab tests. The results will give you valuable information about your body that you need to make better decisions about your health.

Luckily, Ulta Lab Tests offer highly accurate and reliable metabolic blood tests. Here are a few of the benefits that you'll experience with Ulta Lab Tests:

  • You'll get secure and confidential results
  • You don't need health insurance
  • You don't need a physician's referral
  • You'll get affordable pricing
  • We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee

Order your metabolic tests today, and we'll provide your results securely and confidentially online in 24 to 48 hours for most tests.

Take control of your health with Ulta Lab Tests today!