Ulta Lab Tests

Eggs & Heart Health Lab Plus Panel

Blood
Blood Draw, Phlebotomist

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.

Apolipoprotein B

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.

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: LFTs, Liver Function Tests, Liver Panel

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, Direct

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.

Bilirubin, Indirect

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.

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.

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.

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.

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: Cholesterol, HDL,Fasting Lipids,Cholesterol, LDL, Fasting Lipids, Lipid Panel (fasting), Lipid Profile (fasting), Lipids

Chol/HDLC Ratio

Cholesterol, Total

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that occurs naturally in all parts of the body. Your body needs some cholesterol to work properly. But if you have too much in your blood, it can combine with other substances in the blood and stick to the walls of your arteries. This is called plaque. Plaque can narrow your arteries or even block them. High levels of cholesterol in the blood can increase your risk of heart disease. Your cholesterol levels tend to rise as you get older. There are usually no signs or symptoms that you have high blood cholesterol, but it can be detected with a blood test. You are likely to have high cholesterol if members of your family have it, if you are overweight or if you eat a lot of fatty foods. You can lower your cholesterol by exercising more and eating more fruits and vegetables. You also may need to take medicine to lower your cholesterol.

HDL Cholesterol

LDL-Cholesterol

Non HDL Cholesterol

Triglycerides

Triglycerides are a form of fat and a major source of energy for the body. This test measures the amount of triglycerides in the blood. Most triglycerides are found in fat (adipose) tissue, but some triglycerides circulate in the blood to provide fuel for muscles to work. After a person eats, an increased level of triglycerides is found in the blood as the body converts the energy not needed right away into fat. Triglycerides move via the blood from the gut to adipose tissue for storage. In between meals, triglycerides are released from fat tissue to be used as an energy source for the body. Most triglycerides are carried in the blood by lipoproteins called very low density lipoproteins (VLDL). High levels of triglycerides in the blood are associated with an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD), although the reason for this is not well understood. Certain factors can contribute to high triglyceride levels and to risk of CVD, including lack of exercise, being overweight, smoking cigarettes, consuming excess alcohol, and medical conditions such as diabetes and kidney disease.

HDL P

HDL SIZE

LARGE HDL P

LARGE VLDL P

LDL P

LDL SIZE

SMALL LDL P

VLDL SIZE

ARACHIDONIC ACID

ARACHIDONIC ACID/EPA

DHA

DPA

EPA

EPA+DPA+DHA

LINOLEIC ACID

OMEGA-3 TOTAL

OMEGA-6 TOTAL

OMEGA-6/OMEGA-3 RATIO

Also known as: ,25-Hydroxyvitamin D2, 25-Hydroxycholecalciferol (25OHD3), 25-OH-D2,D3 Vitamin, D2 Vitamin,25-Hydroxyvitamin D3,25-OH-D3, QuestAssureD 25Hydroxyvitamin D D2 D3 LCMSMS, Vitamin D, Vitamin D, 25-Hydroxy, Vitamin D2, 25-hydroxy,25-Hydroxyergocalciferol (25OHD2),Vitamin D3, 25-hydroxy

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.
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The Eggs & Heart Health Lab Plus Panel panel contains 9 tests with 39 biomarkers .

Overview of the Eggs & Heart Health Lab Plus Panel

The Eggs & Heart Health Lab Plus Panel is an advanced diagnostic panel designed to evaluate the complex relationship between diet—particularly egg consumption—and cardiovascular health. This comprehensive test panel examines key markers related to cholesterol metabolism, lipoprotein particle size, systemic inflammation, blood sugar control, liver function, and nutrient status. Unlike standard cholesterol tests, this panel includes advanced lipid fractionation and omega-3 index testing, offering deeper insight into heart health risk factors.

Eggs are a nutrient-dense food, rich in protein and essential vitamins, but they also contain cholesterol, which has raised concerns about heart health for decades. Recent studies indicate that the impact of eggs on cardiovascular health depends on individual metabolic and lipid responses. The Eggs & Heart Health Lab Plus Panel helps identify these personalized responses by analyzing not just traditional lipid markers but also advanced markers such as lipoprotein particle size and inflammatory risk.

When and Why the Eggs & Heart Health Lab Plus Panel May Be Ordered

Healthcare professionals often recommend the Eggs & Heart Health Lab Plus Panel for individuals who want a comprehensive cardiovascular risk assessment, especially in relation to dietary choices like egg consumption. It is particularly beneficial for people who:

  • Consume eggs regularly and want to understand their effect on lipid metabolism and heart health

  • Have family history of heart disease, stroke, or high cholesterol

  • Show risk factors for atherosclerosis, such as elevated LDL cholesterol or high triglycerides

  • Have diabetes, prediabetes, or insulin resistance, conditions that increase cardiovascular risk

  • Experience elevated inflammation markers or have known metabolic syndrome

  • Want to optimize their diet and lifestyle for heart disease prevention and long-term health

This panel provides actionable data to guide personalized dietary strategies and lifestyle interventions, rather than relying on generalized dietary recommendations.

What the Eggs & Heart Health Lab Plus Panel Checks For

The Eggs & Heart Health Lab Plus Panel goes beyond traditional cholesterol testing by including advanced lipoprotein analysis, inflammatory markers, and nutrient testing. Below is an in-depth explanation of each test and its relevance to heart health:

Apolipoprotein B (ApoB)

ApoB is a protein present in all atherogenic lipoprotein particles, including LDL and VLDL. High ApoB levels indicate a greater number of cholesterol-carrying particles that can infiltrate arterial walls and form plaque, making ApoB a strong predictor of cardiovascular risk. Unlike LDL cholesterol alone, ApoB provides a direct measurement of particle number, which is critical for assessing atherosclerotic risk.

Glucose

Fasting glucose reflects immediate blood sugar levels and overall glucose regulation. High glucose can indicate insulin resistance or prediabetes, both of which significantly elevate heart disease risk and affect how dietary fats and cholesterol are processed.

Hemoglobin A1c (HgbA1C)

Hemoglobin A1c provides an average of blood sugar control over the past 2–3 months. Elevated A1c levels suggest chronic hyperglycemia, which not only contributes to diabetes but also accelerates vascular damage and increases cardiovascular risk.

Hepatic Function Panel

This test evaluates liver enzymes, proteins, and bilirubin levels to assess liver health. The liver plays a vital role in cholesterol production and lipid metabolism. Detecting liver dysfunction early is important because conditions such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease can significantly worsen lipid profiles and cardiovascular outcomes.

hs-CRP (High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein)

hs-CRP measures low-grade systemic inflammation, which is a major contributor to atherosclerosis and plaque instability. Elevated hs-CRP indicates an increased inflammatory burden and higher cardiovascular risk, even when cholesterol levels appear normal.

Lipid Panel

The lipid panel provides essential cholesterol data, including total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides. LDL cholesterol is often called “bad” cholesterol because of its role in plaque buildup, while HDL cholesterol helps remove cholesterol from the arteries. Triglyceride levels indicate how the body processes dietary fats and sugars.

Lipoprotein Fractionation, NMR

This advanced test measures LDL particle number (LDL-P) and size, offering a more precise assessment of cardiovascular risk. Smaller, dense LDL particles are more atherogenic and dangerous than larger, buoyant LDL particles. NMR technology provides a detailed lipoprotein profile, which helps identify risks that a standard lipid panel might miss.

OmegaCheck

OmegaCheck measures the omega-3 fatty acid content in red blood cells and evaluates the omega-3 to omega-6 ratio. A higher omega-3 index is associated with lower cardiovascular risk, better triglyceride control, and reduced inflammation. Imbalances in omega fatty acids can contribute to chronic inflammation and poor lipid profiles.

Vitamin D, 25-Hydroxy, Total, Immunoassay

Vitamin D is essential for overall cardiovascular health and immune function. Low vitamin D levels are linked to increased inflammation, poor lipid metabolism, and higher cardiovascular risk. Adequate vitamin D also supports blood sugar regulation and endothelial health.

How Healthcare Professionals Use the Eggs & Heart Health Lab Plus Panel Results

The results from the Eggs & Heart Health Lab Plus Panel allow clinicians to create personalized prevention and management plans for cardiovascular health. For example:

  • Elevated ApoB or LDL-P may indicate a need for dietary adjustments, such as reducing saturated fats or using cholesterol-lowering therapies.

  • High hs-CRP points to systemic inflammation, prompting anti-inflammatory strategies such as increasing omega-3 intake and improving diet quality.

  • Glucose and A1c elevations require interventions to improve insulin sensitivity, which may include carbohydrate management and lifestyle modifications.

  • Liver enzyme abnormalities may lead to recommendations for weight loss, liver detoxification strategies, and avoiding hepatotoxic substances.

  • OmegaCheck results help determine the need for omega-3 supplementation or dietary changes to restore an optimal fatty acid balance.

  • Low vitamin D levels can be corrected with supplementation to support cardiovascular and metabolic health.

By combining these data points, healthcare providers can develop tailored nutrition plans, lifestyle interventions, and medication strategies for reducing cardiovascular risk and improving overall metabolic health—while guiding patients on how egg consumption fits into their individualized diet.

Conclusion

The Eggs & Heart Health Lab Plus Panel provides a comprehensive, advanced approach to cardiovascular risk assessment, going beyond standard cholesterol testing to include lipoprotein particle analysis, inflammatory markers, omega fatty acid balance, and nutrient status. This panel helps individuals and healthcare professionals understand the true impact of diet—particularly eggs—on heart health and metabolic well-being. By leveraging this data, patients can make informed, personalized choices for long-term cardiovascular protection, improved lipid balance, and overall health optimization.

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