Ulta Lab Tests

Athletic Performance & Recovery - Essential Lab Panel

The Athletic Performance & Recovery Essential Lab Panel includes 11 tests and 95 biomarkers to support focused review of energy, recovery, oxygen delivery, muscle stress, inflammation, hydration, iron status, metabolic health, vitamin D, magnesium, B12, folate, and urine health. It includes CBC, CMP, CK, ferritin, iron/TIBC, A1c, hs-CRP, magnesium, vitamin D, urinalysis, and B12/folate.

Blood, Serum, Random
Phlebotomist

Athletic Performance Panel, Sports Performance Panel, Recovery Panel, Fitness Optimization Panel, Muscle Recovery Panel, Athlete Wellness Panel, Endurance Panel, Strength and Recovery Panel, Performance Biomarker Panel

The following is a list of what is included in the item above. Click the test(s) below to view what biomarkers are measured along with an explanation of what the biomarker is measuring.

Also known as: CBC, CBC includes Differential and Platelets, CBC/PLT w/DIFF, Complete Blood Count (includes Differential and Platelets)

NOTE: Ulta Lab Tests provides CBC test results from Quest Diagnostics as they are reported. Often, different biomarker results are made available at different time intervals. When reporting the results, Ulta Lab Tests denotes those biomarkers not yet reported as 'pending' for every biomarker the test might report. Only biomarkers Quest Diagnostics observes are incorporated and represented in the final CBC test results provided by Ulta Lab Tests.

Absolute Band Neutrophils (Only Reported If Detected)

Immature forms of neutrophils are called neutrophilic band cells. Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell that is responsible for much of the body's protection against infection. Neutrophils are produced in the bone marrow and released into the bloodstream to travel to wherever they are needed. Large numbers of immature forms of neutrophils, called neutrophilic band cells, are produced by the bone marrow when the demand is high.

Absolute Basophils

Basophils normally constitute 1% or less of the total white blood cell count but may increase or decrease in certain diseases and are thought to be involved in allergic reactions.

Absolute Blasts (Only Reported If Detected)

Blasts are immature forms of white blood cells.

Absolute Eosinophils

Eosinophils (eos) respond to infections caused by parasites and play a role in allergic reactions (hypersensitivities)

Absolute Lymphocytes

Lymphocytes are white blood cells that exist in both the blood and the lymphatic system. They are divided into three types. The B lymphocytes (B cells) are antibody-producing cells that are essential for acquired, antigen-specific immune responses. The second type are T lymphocytes (T cells) some T cells help the body distinguish between "self" and "non-self" antigens while others initiate and control the extent of an immune response, boosting it as needed and then slowing it as the condition resolves. Other types of T cells directly attack and neutralize virus-infected or cancerous cells. The third type are natural killer cells (NK cells) that directly attack and kill abnormal cells such as cancer cells or those infected with a virus.

Absolute Metamyelocytes (Only Reported If Detected)

Metamyelocytes are immature forms of white blood cells.

Absolute Monocytes

Monocytes (mono), similar to neutrophils, move to an area of infection and engulf and destroy bacteria. They are associated more often with chronic rather than acute infections. They are also involved in tissue repair and other functions involving the immune system.

Absolute Myelocytes (Only Reported If Detected)

Myelocytes are immature forms of white blood cells.

Absolute Neutrophils

Neutrophils (neu) normally make up the largest number of circulating WBCs. They move into an area of damaged or infected tissue, where they engulf and destroy bacteria or sometimes fungi. Young neutrophils, recently released into circulation, are called bands.

Absolute Nucleated Rbc (Only Reported If Detected)

Nucleated Red Blood Cells (nRBC) ) the presence of NRBCs in the adult blood is usually associated with malignant neoplasms, bone marrow diseases, and other serious disorders.

Absolute Promyelocytes (Only Reported If Detected)

Promyelocytes are immature forms of white blood cells.

Band Neutrophils (Only Reported If Detected)

Immature forms of neutrophils are called neutrophilic band cells. Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell that is responsible for much of the body's protection against infection. Neutrophils are produced in the bone marrow and released into the bloodstream to travel to wherever they are needed. Large numbers of immature forms of neutrophils, called neutrophilic band cells, are produced by the bone marrow when the demand is high.

Basophils

Basophils normally constitute 1% or less of the total white blood cell count but may increase or decrease in certain diseases and are thought to be involved in allergic reactions.

Blasts (Only Reported If Detected)

Blasts are immature forms of white blood cells.

Eosinophils

Eosinophils are specialized white blood cells produced in the bone marrow and released into the bloodstream, where they normally make up only 0–6 % of circulating leukocytes. Their cytoplasm is packed with reddish‑orange granules that contain potent enzymes (e.g., major basic protein, eosinophil cationic protein) and inflammatory mediators. When the immune system detects large, multicellular invaders—such as helminth (worm) parasites—eosinophils migrate out of the blood and surround the pathogen, releasing these granule contents to damage the parasite’s outer surface and aid its destruction. Beyond parasite defense, eosinophils act as key orchestras of the allergic response. They accumulate in tissues exposed to allergens (airways in asthma, skin in eczema, GI tract in eosinophilic esophagitis) and secrete cytokines and lipid mediators that amplify inflammation, recruit additional immune cells, and contribute to symptoms like swelling, mucus production, and itching. Because of this pro‑inflammatory role, persistently elevated eosinophil counts—termed eosinophilia—can signal allergic disorders, drug hypersensitivity, or certain autoimmune and malignant conditions. Conversely, counts drop toward zero after glucocorticoid therapy or in acute stress states, reflecting the cells’ sensitivity to hormonal and immune regulation.

Hematocrit

Hematocrit is a blood test that measures the percentage of the volume of whole blood that is made up of red blood cells. This measurement depends on the number of red blood cells and the size of red blood cells.

Hemoglobin

Serum hemoglobin is a blood test that measures the level of free hemoglobin in the liquid part of the blood (the serum). Free hemoglobin is the hemoglobin outside of the red blood cells. Most of the hemoglobin is found inside the red blood cells, not in the serum.

Lymphocytes

Lymphocytes are white blood cells that exist in both the blood and the lymphatic system. They are divided into three types. The B lymphocytes (B cells) are antibody-producing cells that are essential for acquired, antigen-specific immune responses. The second type are T lymphocytes (T cells) some T cells help the body distinguish between "self" and "non-self" antigens while others initiate and control the extent of an immune response, boosting it as needed and then slowing it as the condition resolves. Other types of T cells directly attack and neutralize virus-infected or cancerous cells. The third type are natural killer cells (NK cells) that directly attack and kill abnormal cells such as cancer cells or those infected with a virus.

MCH

Mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) is a calculation of the average amount of oxygen-carrying hemoglobin inside a red blood cell.

MCHC

Mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) is a calculation of the average percentage of hemoglobin inside a red cell.

MCV

Mean corpuscular volume (MCV) is a measurement of the average size of RBCs.

Metamyelocytes (Only Reported If Detected)

Metamyelocytes are immature forms of white blood cells.

Monocytes

Monocytes (mono), similar to neutrophils, move to an area of infection and engulf and destroy bacteria. They are associated more often with chronic rather than acute infections. They are also involved in tissue repair and other functions involving the immune system.

MPV

Mean Platelet Volume (MPV) - When it indicates average size of platelets are small; older platelets are generally smaller than younger ones and a low MPV may mean that a condition is affecting the production of platelets by the bone marrow. When it indicates a high number of larger, younger platelets in the blood; this may be due to the bone marrow producing and releasing platelets rapidly into circulation.

Myelocytes (Only Reported If Detected)

Myelocytes are immature forms of white blood cells.

Neutrophils

Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell that is responsible for much of the body's protection against infection. Neutrophils are produced in the bone marrow and released into the bloodstream to travel to wherever they are needed.

Nucleated Rbc (Only Reported If Detected)

Nucleated Red Blood Cells (nRBC) ) the presence of NRBCs in the adult blood is usually associated with malignant neoplasms, bone marrow diseases, and other serious disorders.

Platelet Count

A platelet count is a test to measure how many platelets you have in your blood. Platelets help the blood clot. They are smaller than red or white blood cells.

Promyelocytes (Only Reported If Detected)

Promyelocytes are immature forms of white blood cells.

RDW

Red cell distribution width (RDW), which may be included in a CBC, is a calculation of the variation in the size of RBCs.

Reactive Lymphocytes (Only Reported If Detected)

Lymphocytes are white blood cells that exist in both the blood and the lymphatic system. They are divided into three types. The B lymphocytes (B cells) are antibody-producing cells that are essential for acquired, antigen-specific immune responses. The second type are T lymphocytes (T cells) some T cells help the body distinguish between "self" and "non-self" antigens while others initiate and control the extent of an immune response, boosting it as needed and then slowing it as the condition resolves. Other types of T cells directly attack and neutralize virus-infected or cancerous cells. The third type are natural killer cells (NK cells) that directly attack and kill abnormal cells such as cancer cells or those infected with a virus.

Red Blood Cell Count

An RBC count is a blood test that tells how many red blood cells (RBCs) you have. RBCs contain hemoglobin, which carries oxygen. How much oxygen your body tissues get depends on how many RBCs you have and how well they work.

White Blood Cell Count

A WBC count is a test to measure the number of white blood cells (WBCs) in the blood. WBCs help fight infections. They are also called leukocytes. There are five major types of white blood cells: basophils, eosinophils, lymphocytes (T cells and B cells), monocytes and neutrophils

Also known as: Chem 12, Chemistry Panel, Chemistry Screen, CMP, Complete Metabolic Panel, Comprehensive Metabolic Panel CMP, SMA 12, SMA 20

Albumin

Albumin is a protein made by the liver. A serum albumin test measures the amount of this protein in the clear liquid portion of the blood.

Albumin/Globulin Ratio

The ratio of albumin to globulin (A/G ratio) is calculated from measured albumin and calculated globulin (total protein - albumin). Normally, there is a little more albumin than globulins, giving a normal A/G ratio of slightly over 1. Because disease states affect the relative amounts of albumin and globulin, the A/G ratio may provide a clue as to the cause of the change in protein levels. A low A/G ratio may reflect overproduction of globulins, such as seen in multiple myeloma or autoimmune diseases, or underproduction of albumin, such as may occur with cirrhosis, or selective loss of albumin from the circulation, as may occur with kidney disease (nephrotic syndrome). A high A/G ratio suggests underproduction of immunoglobulins as may be seen in some genetic deficiencies and in some leukemias. More specific tests, such as liver enzyme tests and serum protein electrophoresis, must be performed to make an accurate diagnosis. With a low total protein that is due to plasma expansion (dilution of the blood), the A/G ratio will typically be normal because both albumin and globulin will be diluted to the same extent.

Alkaline Phosphatase

Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is a protein found in all body tissues. Tissues with higher amounts of ALP include the liver, bile ducts, and bone.

Alt

Alanine transaminase (ALT) is an enzyme found in the highest amounts in the liver. Injury to the liver results in release of the substance into the blood.

AST

AST (aspartate aminotransferase) is an enzyme found in high amounts in liver, heart, and muscle cells. It is also found in lesser amounts in other tissues.

Bilirubin, Total

Bilirubin is a yellowish pigment found in bile, a fluid made by the liver. A small amount of older red blood cells are replaced by new blood cells every day. Bilirubin is left after these older blood cells are removed. The liver helps break down bilirubin so that it can be removed from the body in the stool.

Bun/Creatinine Ratio

A ratio between a person’s BUN and blood creatinine to help determine what is causing these concentrations to be higher than normal. The ratio of BUN to creatinine is usually between 10:1 and 20:1. An increased ratio may be due to a condition that causes a decrease in the flow of blood to the kidneys, such as congestive heart failure or dehydration. It may also be seen with increased protein, from gastrointestinal bleeding, or increased protein in the diet. The ratio may be decreased with liver disease (due to decrease in the formation of urea) and malnutrition.

Calcium

You have more calcium in your body than any other mineral. Calcium has many important jobs. The body stores more than 99 percent of its calcium in the bones and teeth to help make and keep them strong. The rest is throughout the body in blood, muscle and the fluid between cells. Your body needs calcium to help muscles and blood vessels contract and expand, to secrete hormones and enzymes and to send messages through the nervous system.

Carbon Dioxide

CO2 is carbon dioxide. Measures the amount of carbon dioxide in the liquid part of your blood, called the serum. In the body, most of the CO2 is in the form of a substance called bicarbonate (HCO3-). Therefore, the CO2 blood test is really a measure of your blood bicarbonate level.

Chloride

Chloride is a type of electrolyte. It works with other electrolytes such as potassium, sodium, and carbon dioxide (CO2). These substances help keep the proper balance of body fluids and maintain the body's acid-base balance. This is a measure of the amount of chloride in the fluid portion (serum) of the blood.

Creatinine

The creatinine blood test measures the level of creatinine in the blood. This test is done to see how well your kidneys work.

Egfr African American

Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is a test used to check how well the kidneys are working. Specifically, it estimates how much blood passes through the glomeruli each minute. Glomeruli are the tiny filters in the kidneys that filter waste from the blood.

Egfr Non-Afr. American

Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is a test used to check how well the kidneys are working. Specifically, it estimates how much blood passes through the glomeruli each minute. Glomeruli are the tiny filters in the kidneys that filter waste from the blood.

GFR-AFRICAN AMERICAN

GFR-NON AFRICAN AMERICAN

Globulin

Globulins is the collective term for most blood proteins other than albumin. Identifying the types of globulins can help diagnose certain disorders. Globulins are roughly divided into three groups: alpha, beta, and gamma globulins. Gamma globulines include various types of antibodies such as immunoglobulins (Ig) M, G, and A.

Glucose

A blood glucose test measures the amount of a sugar called glucose in a sample of your blood. Glucose is a major source of energy for most cells of the body, including those in the brain. The hormones insulin and glucagon help control blood glucose levels.

Potassium

Potassium is a mineral that the body needs to work normally. It helps nerves and muscles communicate. It also helps move nutrients into cells and waste products out of cells. A diet rich in potassium helps to offset some of sodium's harmful effects on blood pressure.

Protein, Total

The total protein is the total amount of two classes of proteins, albumin and globulin that are found in the fluid portion of your blood. Proteins are important parts of all cells and tissues. Your albumin helps prevent fluid from leaking out of blood vessels and your globulins are an important part of your immune system.

Sodium

Sodium is a substance that the body needs to work properly it is vital to normal body processes, including nerve and muscle function

Urea Nitrogen (Bun)

BUN stands for blood urea nitrogen. Urea nitrogen is what forms when protein breaks down. BUN measures the amount of urea nitrogen in the blood.

Also known as: CK (Total), CPK, CPK (Total), Creatine Kinase CK Total, Creatine Phosphokinase (CPK), Total CK

Creatine Kinase, Total

Ferritin

Ferritin is a protein found inside cells that stores iron so your body can use it later. A ferritin test indirectly measures the amount of iron in your blood. The amount of ferritin in your blood (serum ferritin level) is directly related to the amount of iron stored in your body.

Also known as: A1c, Glycated Hemoglobin, Glycohemoglobin, Glycosylated Hemoglobin, HA1c, HbA1c, Hemoglobin A1c, Hemoglobin A1c HgbA1C, Hgb A1c

HEMOGLOBIN A1C

The A1c test evaluates the average amount of glucose in the blood over the last 2 to 3 months. It does this by measuring the concentration of glycated (also often called glycosylated) hemoglobin A1c. Hemoglobin is an oxygen-transporting protein found inside red blood cells (RBCs). There are several types of normal hemoglobin, but the predominant form – about 95-98% – is hemoglobin A. As glucose circulates in the blood, some of it spontaneously binds to hemoglobin A. The hemoglobin molecules with attached glucose are called glycated hemoglobin. The higher the concentration of glucose in the blood, the more glycated hemoglobin is formed. Once the glucose binds to the hemoglobin, it remains there for the life of the red blood cell – normally about 120 days. The predominant form of glycated hemoglobin is referred to as HbA1c or A1c. A1c is produced on a daily basis and slowly cleared from the blood as older RBCs die and younger RBCs (with non-glycated hemoglobin) take their place. This test is used to monitor treatment in someone who has been diagnosed with diabetes. It helps to evaluate how well their glucose levels have been controlled by treatment over time. This test may be used to screen for and diagnose diabetes or risk of developing diabetes. In 2010, clinical practice guidelines from the American Diabetes Association (ADA) stated that A1c may be added to fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) as an option for diabetes screening and diagnosis. For monitoring purposes, an A1c of less than 7% indicates good glucose control and a lower risk of diabetic complications for the majority of diabetics. However, in 2012, the ADA and the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) issued a position statement recommending that the management of glucose control in type 2 diabetes be more "patient-centered." Data from recent studies have shown that low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) can cause complications and that people with risk of severe hypoglycemia, underlying health conditions, complications, and a limited life expectancy do not necessarily benefit from having a stringent goal of less than 7% for their A1c. The statement recommends that people work closely with their doctor to select a goal that reflects each person's individual health status and that balances risks and benefits.

Also known as: C-Reactive Protein, Cardio CRP, Cardio hs-CRP, CRP, High Sensitivity CRP, High-sensitivity C-reactive Protein, High-sensitivity CRP, Highly Sensitive CRP, hsCRP, Ultra-sensitive CRP

Hs Crp

A high-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP) test may be used by itself, in combination with other cardiac risk markers, or in combination with a lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2) test that evaluates vascular inflammation. The hs-CRP test accurately detects low concentrations of C-reactive protein to help predict a healthy person's risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). High-sensitivity CRP is promoted by some as a test for determining a person's risk level for CVD, heart attacks, and strokes. The current thinking is that hs-CRP can play a role in the evaluation process before a person develops one of these health problems.

Also known as: Iron and TIBC, Iron and Total Iron Binding Capacity TIBC, TIBC

% Saturation

Iron Binding Capacity

Total iron binding capacity (TIBC) is a blood test to see if you may have too much or too little iron in the blood. Iron moves through the blood attached to a protein called transferrin. This test helps your doctor know how well that protein can carry iron in the blood.

Iron, Total

Iron is a mineral that our bodies need for many functions. For example, iron is part of hemoglobin, a protein which carries oxygen from our lungs throughout our bodies. It helps our muscles store and use oxygen. Iron is also part of many other proteins and enzymes. Your body needs the right amount of iron. If you have too little iron, you may develop iron deficiency anemia. Causes of low iron levels include blood loss, poor diet, or an inability to absorb enough iron from foods. People at higher risk of having too little iron are young children and women who are pregnant or have periods.

Magnesium

Vitamin D, 25-Oh, D2

Vitamin D2 ((ergocalciferol,) is found in fortified foods and in most vitamin preparations and supplements. Vitamin D comes from two sources: endogenous, which is produced in the skin on exposure to sunlight, and exogenous, which is ingested in foods and supplements. The D2 form is found in fortified foods and in most vitamin preparations and supplements. Vitamin D2 is effective when it is converted by the liver and the kidney into the active form, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D.

Vitamin D, 25-Oh, D3

Vitamin D3 (cholecalcifero) which comes from animals. Vitamin D comes from two sources: endogenous, which is produced in the skin on exposure to sunlight, and exogenous, which is ingested in foods and supplements. Vitamin D3 is the form produced in the body and is also used in some supplements. Vitamin D3 are is converted by the liver and the kidney into the active form, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D.

Vitamin D, 25-Oh, Total

Vitamin D comes from two sources: endogenous, which is produced in the skin on exposure to sunlight, and exogenous, which is ingested in foods and supplements. The chemical structures of the types of vitamin D are slightly different, and they are named vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol, which comes from plants) and vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol, which comes from animals). The D2 form is found in fortified foods and in most vitamin preparations and supplements. Vitamin D3 is the form produced in the body and is also used in some supplements. Vitamin D2 and D3 are equally effective when they are converted by the liver and the kidney into the active form, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D.

Also known as: UA, Complete, Urinalysis UA Complete, Urine Analysis, Complete

Amorphous Sediment (Only Reported If Detected)

Appearance

Bacteria

Bacteria are living things that have only one cell. Most bacteria won't hurt you - less than 1 percent of the different types make people sick. Many are helpful. Some bacteria help to digest food, destroy disease-causing cells, and give the body needed vitamins. But infectious bacteria can make you ill. They reproduce quickly in your body. Many give off chemicals called toxins, which can damage tissue and make you sick. Examples of bacteria that cause infections include Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, and E. coli.

Bilirubin

Bilirubin is a yellowish pigment found in bile, a fluid made by the liver. A small amount of older red blood cells are replaced by new blood cells every day. Bilirubin is left after these older blood cells are removed. The liver helps break down bilirubin so that it can be removed from the body in the stool.

Calcium Oxalate Crystals (Only Reported If Detected)

Calcium oxalate is a chemical compound that forms envelope-shaped crystals. A major constituent of human kidney stones.

Casts (Only Reported If Detected)

Urinary casts are cylindrical structures produced by the kidney and present in the urine in certain disease states. They form in the distal convoluted tubule and collecting ducts of nephrons, then dislodge and pass into the urine, where they can be detected by microscopy.

Color

Crystals (Only Reported If Detected)

Abnormal crystals may appear in urine as a result of pathology or due to normal catabolism

Glucose

A blood glucose test measures the amount of a sugar called glucose in a sample of your blood. Glucose is a major source of energy for most cells of the body, including those in the brain. The hormones insulin and glucagon help control blood glucose levels.

Granular Cast (Only Reported If Detected)

The second-most common type of cast, granular casts can result either from the breakdown of cellular casts or the inclusion of aggregates of plasma proteins (e.g., albumin) or immunoglobulin light chains. Depending on the size of inclusions, they can be classified as fine or coarse, though the distinction has no diagnostic significance. Their appearance is generally more cigar-shaped and of a higher refractive index than hyaline casts. While most often indicative of chronic renal disease, these casts, as with hyaline casts, can also be seen for a short time following strenuous exercise

Hyaline Cast

Urinary casts are tiny tube-shaped particles. Urinary casts may be made up of white blood cells, red blood cells, kidney cells, or substances such as protein or fat. The most common type of cast, hyaline casts are solidified Tamm-Horsfall mucoprotein secreted from the tubular epithelial cells of individual nephrons. Low urine flow, concentrated urine, or an acidic environment can contribute to the formation of hyaline casts, and, as such, they may be seen in normal individuals in dehydration or vigorous exercise. Hyaline casts are cylindrical and clear, with a low refractive index,

Ketones

Ketones are substances produced in the liver when fat cells break down in the blood. A serum ketone test is a measurement of how many ketones are in the blood.

Leukocyte Esterase

Leukocyte esterase is a urine test to look for white blood cells and other signs associated with infection.

Nitrite

Occult Blood

The test looks for hidden (occult) blood in a specimen sample. It can find blood even if you cannot see it yourself.

Ph

Level of acid

Protein

Body fluids contain many different proteins that serve diverse functions such as transport of nutrients, removal of toxins, control of metabolic processes, and defense against invaders. Protein electrophoresis is a method for separating these proteins based on their size and electrical charge. When body fluids are separated by electrophoresis, they form a characteristic pattern of bands of different widths and intensities, reflecting the mixture of proteins present. This pattern is divided into five fractions, called albumin, alpha 1, alpha 2, beta, and gamma. In some cases, the beta fraction is further divided into beta 1 and beta 2. Albumin, which is produced in the liver, accounts for about 60% of the protein in the blood. "Globulins" is a collective term used to refer to proteins other than albumin. With the exception of the immunoglobulins and some complement proteins, most of the globulins are also produced in the liver. Immunofixation electrophoresis (IFE) is a method used to identify abnormal bands seen on serum, urine, or CSF protein electrophoresis, as to which type of antibody (immunoglobulin) is present.

Rbc

RBCs contain hemoglobin, which carries oxygen. How much oxygen your body tissues get depends on how many RBCs you have and how well they work.

Reducing Substances (Only Reported If Detected)

Renal Epithelial Cells (Only Reported If Detected)

Specific Gravity

Squamous Epithelial Cells

Transitional Epithelial (Only Reported If Detected)

Triple Phosphate Crystals (Only Reported If Detected)

Struvite stones (triple phosphate/magnesium ammonium phosphate) - about 10–15% of urinary calculi are composed of struvite (ammonium magnesium phosphate, NH4MgPO4·6H2O).[44] Struvite stones (also known as "infection stones", urease or triple-phosphate stones), form most often in the presence of infection by urea-splitting bacteria

Uric Acid Crystals (Only Reported If Detected)

Abnormal crystals may appear in urine as a result of pathology or due to normal catabolism

WBC

WBCs help fight infections. They are also called leukocytes. There are five major types of white blood cells: basophils, eosinophils, lymphocytes (T cells and B cells), monocytes and neutrophils

YEAST (Only Reported If Detected)

Candida is the scientific name for yeast. It is a fungus that lives almost everywhere, including in your body. Usually, your immune system keeps yeast under control. If you are sick or taking antibiotics, it can multiply and cause an infection.

Also known as: Cobalamin, Folic Acid, Vitamin B 12, Vitamin B 12 and Folic Acid, Vitamin B12 Cobalamin and Folate Panel Serum, Vitamin B12/Folic Acid

Folate, Serum

Folate is part of the B complex of vitamins and is measures the levels of folate in the liquid portion of the blood, the serum or plasma, to detect deficiencies. Folate is necessary for normal RBC formation, tissue and cellular repair, and DNA synthesis.. A deficiency inr folate can lead to macrocytic anemia. Megaloblastic anemia, a type of macrocytic anemia, is characterized by the production of fewer but larger RBCs called macrocytes, in addition to some cellular changes in the bone marrow.

Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 is part of the B complex of vitamins and measurea the levels of vitamin B12 in the liquid portion of the blood, the serum or plasma, to detect deficiencies. Cobalamine, or vitamin B12, is found in animal products such as red meat, fish, poultry, milk, yogurt, and eggs and is not produced in the human body. In recent years, fortified cereals, breads, and other grain products have also become important dietary sources of B12. Vitamin B12 is necessary for normal RBC formation, tissue and cellular repair, and DNA synthesis. B12 is important for nerve health. A deficiency in B12 can lead to macrocytic anemia. Megaloblastic anemia, a type of macrocytic anemia, is characterized by the production of fewer but larger RBCs called macrocytes, in addition to some cellular changes in the bone marrow. B12 deficiency can lead to varying degrees of neuropathy, nerve damage that can cause tingling and numbness in the affected person's hands and feet.
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The Athletic Performance & Recovery - Essential Lab Panel panel contains 11 tests with 94 biomarkers .

Overview

The Athletic Performance & Recovery Essential Lab Panel is designed for people who want a focused starting point to evaluate key biomarkers related to training, recovery, energy, endurance, muscle stress, hydration, inflammation, iron status, and nutrient support.

Athletic performance is influenced by oxygen delivery, red blood cell status, iron availability, metabolic health, hydration, muscle recovery, inflammation, vitamin D, magnesium, and B-vitamin status. This Essential panel provides a practical foundation for active adults, athletes, runners, strength-training participants, and wellness-focused individuals who want to better understand how their body is responding to training and recovery demands.

This panel does not diagnose overtraining, injury, nutrient deficiency, or performance limitations by itself. Results should be reviewed with recent training load, symptoms, sleep, diet, hydration, medications, supplements, and provider guidance.

Why Order This Panel?

This panel may help provide insight into:

  • Oxygen delivery and blood count patterns
  • Iron storage and iron availability
  • Muscle stress and recovery markers
  • Blood sugar and metabolic health
  • Low-grade inflammation
  • Liver, kidney, electrolyte, and hydration context
  • Vitamin D status
  • Magnesium status
  • Vitamin B12 and folate status
  • Urine health and hydration-related patterns

This is the best starting tier for people who want a targeted performance and recovery baseline without ordering a larger advanced or comprehensive athletic panel.

This Panel May Be Helpful For People Who Want To

  • Review core athletic performance biomarkers
  • Check iron and ferritin status
  • Evaluate muscle recovery with CK
  • Review inflammation with hs-CRP
  • Check blood sugar and A1c
  • Review hydration and urine findings
  • Check vitamin D, magnesium, B12, and folate
  • Establish a baseline before training, racing, competition, or a new fitness program

Tests Included and Why They Matter

Blood Health, Oxygen Delivery & Iron Status

Athletic performance depends on the body’s ability to deliver oxygen to working muscles. Red blood cells, hemoglobin, iron, vitamin B12, and folate all play important roles in stamina, endurance, energy production, and recovery. When oxygen delivery is limited, athletes may notice fatigue, shortness of breath with exertion, reduced endurance, slower recovery, or declining performance.

This group helps evaluate whether the body has the blood-building and oxygen-carrying support needed for training, racing, strength work, and recovery.

CBC, includes Differential and Platelets

The CBC evaluates red blood cells, white blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, platelets, and different types of white blood cells.

This test is included because red blood cells and hemoglobin help carry oxygen from the lungs to working muscles. Oxygen delivery is essential for endurance, stamina, energy production, and recovery. Low hemoglobin, low hematocrit, or anemia-related patterns may contribute to fatigue, reduced exercise tolerance, slower recovery, dizziness, or poor performance.

The white blood cell portion of the CBC may provide immune and infection-related context. This can be useful because illness, immune stress, or inflammation may affect training readiness and recovery. Platelets provide additional blood health and inflammation-related context.

For athletic performance, the CBC helps provide a foundation for evaluating:

  • Oxygen-carrying capacity
  • Anemia-related patterns
  • Fatigue and endurance concerns
  • Immune stress or infection clues
  • Recovery readiness
  • General blood health

Ferritin

Ferritin measures stored iron.

This test is included because iron is essential for producing hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. Low ferritin may affect energy, stamina, endurance, and recovery even before anemia is visible on a CBC.

Ferritin is especially important for endurance athletes, runners, cyclists, female athletes, menstruating women, vegetarians, vegans, and people with heavy training loads. Low iron stores may contribute to fatigue, poor aerobic capacity, slower recovery, increased perceived effort, and performance decline.

Ferritin can also rise with inflammation, infection, liver stress, or metabolic issues. That is why it should be interpreted with iron/TIBC, CBC, hs-CRP, symptoms, diet, and training history.

For athletic performance, ferritin helps provide context for:

  • Iron storage
  • Oxygen delivery
  • Endurance capacity
  • Fatigue and stamina
  • Heavy training stress
  • Recovery from low iron patterns

Iron and Total Iron Binding Capacity, TIBC

Iron and TIBC help evaluate circulating iron and the body’s iron transport capacity.

This test is included because ferritin alone does not show the full picture of iron availability. Iron/TIBC helps show how much iron is circulating and how the body is transporting it. This can be useful when evaluating fatigue, low stamina, heavy training demands, possible iron deficiency, or abnormal iron handling.

For athletes, iron availability matters because oxygen delivery, red blood cell function, mitochondrial energy production, and endurance performance all depend on adequate iron status.

This test may provide useful context for:

  • Iron availability
  • Iron transport
  • Endurance and stamina
  • Oxygen-carrying support
  • Fatigue, weakness, or dizziness
  • Interpretation of ferritin and CBC patterns

Vitamin B12 and Folate Panel, Serum

Vitamin B12 and folate support red blood cell formation, nerve function, DNA synthesis, methylation, and energy metabolism.

This test is included because low vitamin B12 or folate may contribute to fatigue, weakness, poor stamina, nerve symptoms, brain fog, or anemia-related patterns. These nutrients are also important for active people because they help support blood health, oxygen delivery, and normal neurologic function.

Vitamin B12 and folate may be especially useful to review in athletes with restricted diets, vegetarian or vegan diets, digestive concerns, low energy, endurance decline, or unexplained fatigue.

For athletic performance, this test helps provide context for:

  • Red blood cell production
  • Energy metabolism
  • Endurance wellness
  • Nerve function
  • Fatigue and weakness
  • Diet-related nutrient status

Muscle Stress, Training Load & Recovery

Training creates stress on muscles. Some muscle stress is expected and necessary for adaptation, but excessive stress, poor recovery, dehydration, illness, or intense exercise can increase muscle enzyme and inflammation markers.

This group helps evaluate whether the body is showing signs of muscle stress or low-grade inflammation that may affect recovery, training readiness, soreness, or performance.

Creatine Kinase, CK, Total

Creatine kinase is an enzyme found mainly in muscle tissue.

This test is included because CK may rise after intense exercise, strength training, endurance events, muscle injury, heavy eccentric exercise, dehydration, or poor recovery. It is one of the most useful markers for understanding muscle stress and training load.

In athletic performance testing, CK can help provide context for whether muscle tissue is under higher-than-usual stress. A higher CK may be expected after hard training, but very high or persistent elevations should be reviewed with symptoms, hydration status, medications, supplements, and training history.

CK may be especially useful for athletes with:

  • Heavy strength training
  • Endurance racing
  • Muscle soreness or weakness
  • Poor recovery
  • Training-load changes
  • Statin use or performance supplement use
  • Concern for excessive muscle breakdown

For athletic performance, CK helps evaluate:

  • Muscle stress
  • Training load
  • Recovery status
  • Muscle breakdown patterns
  • Exercise-related enzyme changes
  • Whether AST/ALT changes may be muscle-related rather than liver-related

hs-CRP

High-sensitivity C-reactive protein is a marker of low-grade inflammation.

This test is included because inflammation can affect recovery, training adaptation, cardiovascular wellness, metabolic health, and interpretation of other markers such as ferritin. Hard training, illness, injury, poor sleep, excess body fat, infection, or chronic inflammatory stress may influence hs-CRP.

In athletes, inflammation is not always negative. A temporary rise may occur after hard training or competition. However, persistently elevated hs-CRP may suggest the need to review recovery, training load, sleep, diet quality, injury, illness, cardiometabolic risk, or other inflammatory contributors.

For athletic performance, hs-CRP helps provide context for:

  • Recovery readiness
  • Low-grade inflammation
  • Training stress
  • Cardiometabolic wellness
  • Ferritin interpretation
  • Illness, injury, or excessive stress patterns

Metabolic Health, Fuel Use & General Wellness

Athletes need efficient fuel use, stable energy, proper hydration, electrolyte balance, and healthy liver and kidney function. The body’s ability to use glucose, regulate electrolytes, maintain protein status, and process metabolic waste affects endurance, strength, recovery, and overall performance.

This group helps evaluate the metabolic foundation that supports training and recovery.

Comprehensive Metabolic Panel, CMP

The CMP evaluates glucose, kidney function, liver function, electrolytes, calcium, albumin, total protein, and other metabolic markers.

This test is included because athletic performance and recovery depend on hydration, electrolyte balance, blood sugar regulation, protein status, liver function, and kidney function. The CMP gives broad insight into several systems that support performance and general wellness.

CMP results can help provide context for:

  • Glucose and energy regulation
  • Hydration and electrolyte balance
  • Kidney function
  • Liver function
  • Protein and albumin status
  • Calcium balance
  • Metabolic wellness

For athletes, CMP patterns may be influenced by hydration status, recent exercise, diet, supplements, alcohol use, medications, muscle mass, and training intensity.

Hemoglobin A1c

Hemoglobin A1c reflects average blood sugar over approximately the past two to three months.

This test is included because blood sugar patterns may affect energy, endurance, body composition, metabolic flexibility, recovery, and long-term health. Even active people can have blood sugar patterns that affect energy stability, cravings, fatigue, or body composition goals.

For performance and recovery, A1c helps provide context for:

  • Longer-term blood sugar patterns
  • Metabolic flexibility
  • Energy stability
  • Recovery and fuel use
  • Diabetes or prediabetes risk context
  • Cardiometabolic wellness

A1c should be interpreted alongside training volume, diet, glucose from the CMP, symptoms, body composition goals, and overall health history.

Vitamins, Minerals, Hydration & Urine Health

Hydration, vitamin status, mineral balance, and urine findings can strongly affect athletic performance. Heavy sweating, intense training, inadequate intake, supplements, dehydration, and metabolic stress can influence magnesium, vitamin D, and urine patterns.

This group helps evaluate nutrient and hydration-related markers that may affect muscle function, recovery, cramping, bone health, immune resilience, and training readiness.

Magnesium

Magnesium supports muscle contraction and relaxation, nerve signaling, glucose metabolism, blood pressure regulation, sleep, energy production, and recovery.

This test is included because magnesium status may provide context for muscle cramps, fatigue, sleep quality, training stress, recovery quality, and metabolic wellness. Athletes may lose magnesium through sweat, and needs may increase during heavy training periods.

For athletic performance, magnesium may help provide context for:

  • Muscle cramps
  • Muscle function
  • Nerve signaling
  • Energy production
  • Sleep and recovery
  • Glucose metabolism
  • Training stress

Magnesium should be interpreted with symptoms, diet, supplement use, kidney function, hydration status, and other electrolyte markers.

QuestAssureD™ 25-Hydroxyvitamin D, D2, D3, LC/MS/MS

Vitamin D testing measures vitamin D status.

This test is included because vitamin D supports muscle function, bone health, immune health, inflammation balance, and recovery. Vitamin D is especially relevant for athletes who train indoors, have limited sun exposure, live in low-sunlight climates, have darker skin tone, use sun protection consistently, or have a history of low vitamin D.

For athletic performance, vitamin D may provide context for:

  • Muscle function
  • Bone health and bone stress risk
  • Immune resilience
  • Recovery
  • Inflammation balance
  • General wellness

Vitamin D should be reviewed with supplement use, calcium status, sun exposure, diet, and health history.

Urinalysis, UA, Complete

A complete urinalysis evaluates urine markers such as protein, blood, glucose, ketones, specific gravity, pH, and other findings.

This test is included because urine patterns can provide useful context for hydration, kidney health, glucose handling, ketone production, and training-related stress. Urine specific gravity may provide hydration context, while protein, blood, or ketones may require interpretation based on recent exercise, diet, hydration, and symptoms.

In athletes, temporary changes in urine markers can occur after intense training, dehydration, endurance events, or high-protein intake. Persistent or concerning abnormalities should be reviewed with a healthcare provider.

For athletic performance, urinalysis helps provide context for:

  • Hydration status
  • Kidney and urine health
  • Protein or blood in urine
  • Glucose or ketones in urine
  • Training stress
  • Recovery and safety monitoring

Summary of Grouping Value for Athletic Performance

Blood Health, Oxygen Delivery & Iron Status

This group helps evaluate whether the body has the red blood cell, iron, B12, and folate support needed for oxygen delivery, stamina, endurance, and recovery. It is especially important for fatigue, heavy training, endurance sports, vegetarian or vegan diets, and low iron concerns.

Muscle Stress, Training Load & Recovery

This group helps evaluate how the body is responding to training stress. CK and hs-CRP may provide useful context for muscle stress, inflammation, soreness, recovery, and whether recent training may be affecting lab results.

Metabolic Health, Fuel Use & General Wellness

This group helps evaluate glucose regulation, liver and kidney function, electrolytes, protein status, hydration-related chemistry, and broader metabolic health. These markers support energy, endurance, body composition, recovery, and safe training.

Vitamins, Minerals, Hydration & Urine Health

This group helps evaluate nutrient and hydration-related factors that may influence muscle function, cramping, bone health, immunity, fatigue, and recovery. Magnesium, vitamin D, and urinalysis provide practical insight into common athlete wellness concerns.

Related Biomarker Patterns This Panel May Help Identify

This panel may help identify or rule out lab patterns related to:

  • Low iron stores
  • Abnormal iron availability
  • Anemia-related patterns
  • Low B12 or folate status
  • Muscle stress or elevated CK
  • Low-grade inflammation
  • Blood sugar imbalance
  • Electrolyte or hydration patterns
  • Liver or kidney marker changes
  • Low vitamin D
  • Magnesium status
  • Urine protein, blood, glucose, or ketones
  • General training and recovery readiness

How to Prepare for This Panel

Preparation may vary by test and lab instructions. In general:

  • Avoid unusually intense exercise before testing if your provider wants baseline CK and inflammation markers.
  • Fasting may be recommended because glucose-related markers are included.
  • Drink water before your blood draw unless instructed otherwise.
  • Do not overhydrate immediately before urine testing.
  • Bring a list of supplements, medications, recent workouts, training schedule, symptoms, diet, sleep patterns, and hydration habits.
  • Note recent illness, injury, races, hard workouts, heat exposure, sauna use, or dehydration.
  • Follow all lab collection instructions provided with your order.

What Happens After You Receive Your Results?

After your results are available, your biomarkers can help organize findings into areas such as oxygen delivery, iron status, muscle stress, inflammation, blood sugar, hydration, metabolic wellness, vitamin D, magnesium, B12, folate, and urine health.

A licensed healthcare provider can help interpret results in the context of training load, recent workouts, symptoms, sleep, nutrition, supplements, medications, hydration, and performance goals.

Related Lab Panels

Customers interested in this panel may also consider:

  • Athletic Performance & Recovery Advanced Lab Panel
  • Athletic Performance & Recovery Comprehensive Lab Panel
  • Vitamin, Mineral & Nutrient Deficiency Lab Panel
  • Heart Health & Cholesterol Lab Panel
  • Hormone Therapy Safety Lab Panel
  • Stress, Cortisol, Sleep & Burnout Lab Panel

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Athletic Performance & Recovery Essential Lab Panel?

It is a focused blood and urine test panel that evaluates core biomarkers related to training, recovery, iron status, inflammation, muscle stress, metabolic health, hydration, vitamin D, magnesium, B12, and folate.

Why is CK included?

CK is included because it may provide context for muscle stress, exercise-related muscle breakdown, training load, and recovery patterns.

Why are ferritin and iron/TIBC included?

Ferritin evaluates iron storage, while iron/TIBC evaluates circulating iron and transport. Iron status is important for oxygen delivery, endurance, energy, and fatigue.

Can this panel diagnose overtraining?

No. This panel does not diagnose overtraining by itself. Results should be reviewed with training load, sleep, nutrition, symptoms, and provider guidance.

Important Note

This panel is designed to help evaluate selected biomarkers related to athletic performance, recovery, muscle stress, inflammation, iron status, hydration, vitamin status, metabolic health, and general wellness. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease by itself. Results should be reviewed with a licensed healthcare provider.

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