Ulta Lab Tests

Muscle Recovery & Performance Optimization 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.

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.

Copper

Also known as: Cortisol AM

Cortisol, A.M.

A cortisol level is a blood test that measures the amount of cortisol, a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal gland. The test is done to check for increased or decreased cortisol production. Cortisol is a steroid hormone released from the adrenal gland in response to ACTH, a hormone from the pituitary gland in the brain. Cortisol affects many different body systems. It plays a role in: bone, circulatory system, immune system. metabolism of fats, carbohydrates, and protein. ervous system and stress responses.

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

Creatine Kinase, Total

Also known as: Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate, DHEA SO4, DHEA Sulfate Immunoassay, DHEAS, Transdehydroandrosterone

DHEA SULFATE

DHEA-sulfate test measures the amount of DHEA-sulfate in the blood. DHEA-sulfate is a weak male hormone (androgen) produced by the adrenal gland in both men and women.

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.

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: 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.

Also known as: Lactate Dehydrogenase LD, LDH

Ld

LDH isoenzymes is a test to check how much of the different types of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) are in the blood. Measurement of LDH isoenzymes helps determine the location of any tissue damage. LDH is found in many body tissues such as the heart, liver, kidney, skeletal muscle, brain, blood cells, and lungs. LDH exists in 5 forms, which differ slightly in structure. LDH-1 is found primarily in heart muscle and red blood cells. LDH-2 is concentrated in white blood cells. LDH-3 is highest in the lung. LDH-4 is highest in the kidney, placenta, and pancreas. LDH-5 is highest in the liver and skeletal muscle.

Magnesium

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: Testosterone Free Dialysis and Total LCMSMS

Free Testosterone

In many cases, measurement of total testosterone provides the doctor with adequate information. However, in certain cases, for example when the level of SHBG is abnormal, a test for free or bioavailable testosterone may be performed as it may more accurately reflect the presence of a medical condition.

TESTOSTERONE, TOTAL,

A testosterone test measures the amount of the male hormone, testosterone, in the blood. Both men and women produce this hormone. In males, the testicles produce most of the testosterone in the body. Levels are most often checked to evaluate signs of low testosterone: In boys -- early or late puberty and in men -- impotence, low level of sexual interest, infertility, thinning of the bones In females, the ovaries produce most of the testosterone and levels are most often checked to evaluate signs of higher testosterone levels, such as: decreased breast size, excess hair growth, increased size of the clitoris. irregular or absent menstrual periods and male-pattern baldness or hair thinning.

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.

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.

Also known as: ZN, Plasma

Zinc

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The Muscle Recovery & Performance Optimization Lab Plus Panel panel contains 17 tests with 50 biomarkers .

Overview of the Muscle Recovery & Performance Optimization Lab Plus Panel

The Muscle Recovery & Performance Optimization Lab Plus Panel is a specialized diagnostic panel designed to evaluate the key physiological factors influencing muscle function, exercise recovery, and athletic performance. This comprehensive assessment examines a range of biomarkers related to electrolyte balance, metabolic health, muscle integrity, hormonal function, inflammation, and nutritional status. By identifying deficiencies, imbalances, and systemic conditions, this panel enables individuals and healthcare professionals to optimize training outcomes, accelerate recovery, and reduce injury risk.

Muscle performance depends on multiple factors: adequate micronutrients like magnesium and zinc, sufficient iron stores for oxygen delivery, balanced hormones such as testosterone and cortisol, and effective glucose control for energy. Chronic inflammation, nutrient deficiencies, and metabolic imbalances can hinder recovery and compromise performance. The Muscle Recovery & Performance Optimization Lab Plus Panel provides a detailed overview of these factors, helping athletes and active individuals maximize their potential while maintaining long-term health.

When and Why the Muscle Recovery & Performance Optimization Lab Plus Panel May Be Ordered

Healthcare providers may order the Muscle Recovery & Performance Optimization Lab Plus Panel for individuals who experience persistent fatigue, delayed muscle recovery, frequent cramps, poor workout performance, or recurring injuries. It is particularly beneficial for competitive athletes, bodybuilders, endurance trainers, and individuals on intensive exercise regimens who want to monitor and optimize their recovery processes.

This panel may be recommended if:

  • You experience extended soreness or poor recovery after workouts.

  • You are concerned about overtraining syndrome or adrenal stress.

  • You have symptoms of hormonal imbalance such as low energy, reduced muscle mass, or decreased endurance.

  • You suspect nutritional deficiencies affecting muscle performance.

  • You have metabolic conditions like diabetes or iron deficiency anemia that impact recovery.

By identifying the root causes of impaired recovery, such as low testosterone, elevated inflammatory markers, or suboptimal micronutrient status, this panel supports a targeted approach to improve performance and overall health.

What the Muscle Recovery & Performance Optimization Lab Plus Panel Checks For

The Muscle Recovery & Performance Optimization Lab Plus Panel analyzes a wide range of biomarkers that impact muscle recovery, energy metabolism, and performance. Below is a detailed explanation of each test and its significance:

Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)

The CMP measures electrolytes (sodium, potassium, chloride, bicarbonate), kidney and liver function, and protein levels. Electrolytes are vital for muscle contraction and hydration, while liver and kidney health influence detoxification and protein metabolism—both critical for recovery and performance.

Copper

Copper is essential for energy production and connective tissue integrity. It plays a role in iron metabolism and antioxidant defense. Low copper levels can impair oxygen utilization and tissue repair, slowing recovery and increasing fatigue.

Cortisol AM

Cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone, regulates metabolism, immune function, and inflammation. Abnormal cortisol levels—either too high or too low—can indicate overtraining, adrenal fatigue, or chronic stress, all of which compromise recovery and performance.

Creatine Kinase (CK), Total

CK is an enzyme released during muscle tissue breakdown. Elevated CK levels suggest muscle strain or damage, common after intense exercise. Persistently high CK may indicate overtraining or a higher risk of muscle injury.

DHEA Sulfate

DHEA is an adrenal hormone that acts as a precursor to testosterone and estrogen. Adequate DHEA supports anabolic processes like muscle repair and growth. Low levels may indicate adrenal dysfunction or stress-related hormonal imbalances.

Ferritin

Ferritin reflects iron storage in the body. Iron is essential for oxygen transport and energy production. Low ferritin can lead to fatigue, decreased endurance, and impaired recovery, while excessively high levels may indicate inflammation or iron overload.

Glucose

Glucose provides energy for muscle function. Abnormal fasting glucose levels can signal impaired carbohydrate metabolism, insulin resistance, or diabetes, which negatively affect energy supply and muscle recovery.

Hemoglobin A1c (HgbA1C)

Hemoglobin A1c measures average blood glucose control over 2–3 months. Chronic hyperglycemia can contribute to fatigue, inflammation, and delayed recovery, while well-managed glucose supports consistent energy availability.

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

hs-CRP is an inflammatory marker that helps assess systemic inflammation. While some inflammation is normal after exercise, persistently high levels indicate chronic inflammation that can delay healing and impair performance.

Iron and Total Iron Binding Capacity

These tests measure iron availability and transport capacity, critical for hemoglobin production and oxygen delivery to muscles. Iron deficiency reduces aerobic capacity and endurance, impacting recovery from strenuous exercise.

Lactate Dehydrogenase (LD)

LD is an enzyme involved in energy metabolism and is released during tissue breakdown. Elevated LD suggests muscle stress or injury. Monitoring LD, alongside CK, helps assess recovery status and the risk of overtraining.

Magnesium

Magnesium is crucial for energy production, muscle relaxation, and nerve function. Deficiency can cause cramps, weakness, and prolonged fatigue, all of which hinder performance and recovery.

OmegaCheck

This test evaluates the ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids, which influences inflammation and cardiovascular health. A favorable omega-3 balance helps reduce exercise-induced inflammation and supports joint and muscle recovery.

Testosterone, Free (Dialysis) and Total MS

Testosterone is a key anabolic hormone essential for muscle growth, strength, and recovery. Low testosterone impairs protein synthesis and performance, while optimal levels support faster recovery and improved athletic output.

Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin) and Folate Panel, Serum

B12 and folate are critical for red blood cell production, DNA synthesis, and energy metabolism. Deficiency leads to fatigue, weakness, and impaired recovery, especially in endurance athletes.

Vitamin D, 25-Hydroxy, Total, Immunoassay

Vitamin D supports bone health, muscle function, and immune balance. Low levels can cause muscle weakness, increase injury risk, and slow recovery, making adequate vitamin D essential for active individuals.

Zinc

Zinc plays a role in protein synthesis, immune function, and tissue repair. Low zinc levels can hinder muscle recovery and overall healing processes after intense training.

How Healthcare Professionals Use the Muscle Recovery & Performance Optimization Lab Plus Panel Results

Healthcare providers use the results of this panel to develop tailored recovery and performance strategies. For example:

  • High CK and LD levels may lead to recommendations for rest, recovery protocols, and reduced training intensity.

  • Elevated hs-CRP prompts anti-inflammatory interventions, such as omega-3 supplementation or dietary adjustments.

  • Low ferritin, B12, or folate deficiencies are corrected to improve oxygen delivery and energy production.

  • Low testosterone or DHEA can lead to hormonal optimization strategies to support muscle growth and recovery.

  • Magnesium and zinc deficiencies are addressed through dietary or supplemental means to prevent cramps and fatigue.

  • Poor omega-3 ratios may result in supplementation to support joint health and reduce post-exercise inflammation.

  • Glucose and A1c abnormalities guide metabolic management strategies to optimize energy and reduce fatigue.

By interpreting these results, healthcare professionals can identify hidden barriers to recovery and implement nutrition, lifestyle, and medical interventions to enhance muscle performance and resilience.

The Muscle Recovery & Performance Optimization Lab Plus Panel expands on the standard version by incorporating additional biomarkers—such as cortisol, DHEA, zinc, copper, ferritin, and iron status—allowing for a broader range of clinical applications.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the conditions and health concerns this panel can be associated with, organized by clinical category:

Hormonal & Adrenal Health Disorders

Condition Relevance
Adrenal Fatigue / HPA Axis Dysregulation Suggested by abnormal cortisol or DHEA levels, this is often linked to chronic stress, fatigue, poor recovery, and reduced endurance.
Hypogonadism (Low Testosterone) Free and total testosterone values help diagnose hormone deficiency, often manifesting as reduced muscle mass, libido, and motivation.
Overtraining Syndrome A key risk in high-level athletes; characterized by chronic fatigue, poor recovery, elevated cortisol, low DHEA/testosterone, and systemic inflammation.

Muscle & Tissue Recovery Issues

Condition Relevance
Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS) Prolonged or excessive muscle soreness may be tied to elevated CK and LD levels.
Rhabdomyolysis Severe muscle breakdown with extremely high CK and LD levels—common after intense exertion or heat stress.
Exercise-Induced Muscle Injury or Chronic Strain Identified by elevated CK, LD, and hs-CRP; requires strategic recovery protocols.

Inflammatory & Autoimmune Conditions

Condition Relevance
Chronic Inflammatory States High hs-CRP and poor omega-3/6 ratios signal systemic inflammation that delays healing and worsens recovery.
Autoimmune Myositis or Connective Tissue Disorders Persistent inflammation with elevated CK, LD, and CRP may warrant investigation into autoimmune causes.

Iron & Oxygen Transport Deficiencies

Condition Relevance
Iron Deficiency Anemia (with or without anemia) Low ferritin and iron with high TIBC cause reduced oxygen delivery and endurance.
Athletic Anemia Common in endurance athletes, especially females; driven by iron depletion, affecting performance.

Metabolic & Energy Regulation Disorders

Condition Relevance
Prediabetes / Type 2 Diabetes Detected through elevated fasting glucose or A1c; can cause poor energy availability, fatigue, and inflammation.
Insulin Resistance / Metabolic Syndrome May manifest as poor glucose control with fatigue and impaired muscle recovery.
Reactive Hypoglycemia Low fasting glucose can signal blood sugar instability affecting post-exercise recovery and mood.

Micronutrient Deficiencies

Deficiency Implications
Magnesium Deficiency Cramps, fatigue, and reduced exercise tolerance.
Zinc Deficiency Impairs healing, protein synthesis, and immune support.
Vitamin B12 & Folate Deficiency Causes fatigue, poor oxygen transport, and slow recovery.
Vitamin D Deficiency Reduces muscle strength and immune regulation; may cause musculoskeletal pain.
Copper Deficiency Impairs mitochondrial function and tissue integrity.

Performance Plateau & Recovery Challenges

Scenario Clinical Relevance
Stalled Gains or Performance Drop-Off May be due to hormonal imbalances, inflammation, or nutrient depletion.
Chronic Fatigue in Athletes A multifactorial issue—could stem from adrenal dysfunction, anemia, or subclinical inflammation.
Frequent Illness or Slow Healing Linked to low zinc, copper, B12, D, or omega-3 deficiencies affecting immune and tissue repair.

Additional Conditions Suggested by Panel Markers

Condition Potential Clues in Panel
Cardiovascular Risk (Athletic Heart Syndrome, Early Disease) OmegaCheck imbalances, hs-CRP, and glucose/A1c can signal early risk factors.
Micronutrient Malabsorption (e.g., Celiac, IBD) Multiple low nutrients like B12, folate, zinc, and magnesium can suggest absorption issues.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome / Myalgic Encephalomyelitis Persistent fatigue, muscle pain, and abnormal inflammatory or hormone markers may indicate this syndrome.

Summary Table: Conditions by Category

Category Example Conditions
Muscle/Recovery Rhabdomyolysis, DOMS, Overtraining
Hormonal Low Testosterone, Adrenal Fatigue, HPA Dysregulation
Inflammatory Chronic Inflammation, Autoimmune Myositis
Metabolic Diabetes, Insulin Resistance, Hypoglycemia
Nutrient Deficiency B12, D, Magnesium, Zinc, Iron
Oxygen Transport Iron Deficiency Anemia, Athletic Anemia
Performance Issues Recovery Plateaus, Frequent Illness, Injury-Prone Training
Systemic/Other CFS/ME, Malabsorption Disorders, Cardiometabolic Risk

Conclusion

The Muscle Recovery & Performance Optimization Lab Plus Panel offers a comprehensive evaluation of the physiological factors that influence recovery, strength, and endurance. By analyzing markers of muscle health, hormonal balance, inflammation, and nutrient status, this panel equips athletes and active individuals with actionable insights to prevent overtraining, accelerate recovery, and maximize performance. Whether you’re a competitive athlete or a fitness enthusiast, this panel is a critical tool for achieving peak performance and maintaining long-term musculoskeletal health.

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