Ulta Lab Tests

Visceral Fat Foundation Panel

Assess key metabolic markers linked to visceral fat with the Visceral Fat Foundation Panel. This panel includes a Comprehensive Metabolic Panel, Lipid Panel, and Hemoglobin A1c to provide insight into glucose regulation, cholesterol levels, liver function, and overall metabolic health.

Serum, Blood
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.

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: Lipid Panel with Ratios (fasting), Lipid Profile with Ratios (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

LDL/HDL Ratio

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.
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The Visceral Fat Foundation Panel panel contains 3 tests with 29 biomarkers .

Foundational Biomarkers for Metabolic and Visceral Fat Assessment

The Visceral Fat Foundation Panel is a targeted blood test designed to evaluate core biomarkers associated with metabolic health and the physiological effects of visceral fat. Visceral fat, which accumulates around internal organs, is metabolically active and can influence glucose regulation, lipid metabolism, liver function, and overall cardiometabolic balance. This panel brings together three essential components, the Comprehensive Metabolic Panel, Lipid Panel, and Hemoglobin A1c, to provide a foundational view of these interconnected systems.

Rather than measuring fat directly, this panel evaluates how the body is functioning in areas commonly influenced by excess visceral fat. Changes in blood glucose control, lipid levels, and liver enzymes can reflect underlying metabolic patterns that are often associated with central adiposity. By assessing these markers together, the panel offers a structured way to explore how metabolic processes are operating and whether they align with expected physiological balance.

The Comprehensive Metabolic Panel provides insight into kidney and liver function, electrolyte balance, and glucose levels. The Lipid Panel evaluates cholesterol and triglycerides, which are closely linked to cardiovascular health and fat metabolism. Hemoglobin A1c reflects average blood glucose levels over time, offering a longer term view of glycemic control.

This panel is designed to support both baseline assessment and ongoing monitoring. It provides clinically relevant information that can help individuals and healthcare providers better understand metabolic health in the context of visceral fat and its potential impact on broader physiological systems.

When and Why Someone Would Order This Panel

Situations That May Prompt Metabolic Evaluation

The Visceral Fat Foundation Panel may be considered when there is a need to better understand how metabolic processes are functioning, particularly in relation to central fat distribution and overall metabolic balance. Visceral fat is associated with changes in glucose regulation, lipid metabolism, and liver function, making these areas important to evaluate when seeking a comprehensive picture of metabolic health.

This panel may be ordered in situations where there are concerns about weight distribution, especially when fat accumulation is concentrated in the abdominal region. While body composition cannot be directly measured through blood testing, metabolic markers can provide insight into how the body is responding to and managing energy storage and utilization. Evaluating these markers together helps provide context for metabolic efficiency and regulation.

It may also be useful when monitoring changes related to lifestyle adjustments such as diet, physical activity, or weight management strategies. Individuals who are tracking progress over time may use this panel to observe how metabolic markers respond to these changes. Hemoglobin A1c can reflect longer term glucose trends, while lipid levels and metabolic panel markers may show more immediate changes in response to interventions.

Healthcare providers may consider this panel when evaluating risk factors associated with cardiometabolic health. Lipid levels, glucose regulation, and liver enzyme activity are commonly assessed when exploring patterns that may be associated with metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, or cardiovascular risk. This panel provides a foundational dataset that can support further evaluation if needed.

In addition, this panel may be used as part of routine health monitoring to establish a baseline. By understanding how key metabolic systems are functioning, individuals and providers can make more informed decisions about follow up testing, monitoring intervals, and potential next steps in maintaining metabolic health.

What Does the Panel Measure

Core Biomarker Categories and Their Roles

Comprehensive Metabolic Panel

The Comprehensive Metabolic Panel includes a group of tests that evaluate multiple aspects of metabolic function. It measures glucose levels, which provide immediate insight into blood sugar status, as well as kidney markers such as blood urea nitrogen and creatinine. Liver enzymes including alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase are also included, offering information about liver health and function. Electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, chloride, and bicarbonate reflect fluid and acid base balance. Albumin and total protein provide additional context related to nutritional and metabolic status.

Lipid Panel

The Lipid Panel evaluates cholesterol and triglycerides, which are essential components of fat metabolism and cardiovascular health. Total cholesterol provides an overview of circulating cholesterol, while low density lipoprotein cholesterol is often associated with lipid transport to tissues. High density lipoprotein cholesterol plays a role in reverse cholesterol transport. Triglycerides reflect circulating fats that are influenced by dietary intake and metabolic processes. These markers are commonly used to assess patterns related to lipid metabolism and cardiovascular risk.

Hemoglobin A1c

Hemoglobin A1c measures the percentage of hemoglobin that has glucose attached to it, reflecting average blood glucose levels over approximately two to three months. This marker provides a longer term view of glycemic control compared to a single glucose measurement. It is widely used to evaluate how effectively blood sugar levels are being regulated over time and can help identify patterns associated with impaired glucose metabolism.

By combining these three components, the panel provides a comprehensive overview of metabolic pathways that are closely associated with visceral fat and overall metabolic function.

How Patients and Healthcare Providers Use the Results

Interpreting Metabolic Patterns

Results from the Visceral Fat Foundation Panel are typically interpreted by examining how glucose regulation, lipid metabolism, and organ function markers interact. Rather than focusing on a single value, healthcare providers often assess patterns across these systems to understand how the body is managing energy balance and metabolic processes.

Glucose and Hemoglobin A1c levels can be evaluated together to assess both short term and longer term blood sugar regulation. Lipid markers provide insight into how fats are being transported and processed in the body, while liver enzymes may reflect how the liver is handling metabolic demands. These patterns can help identify whether metabolic pathways are functioning within expected ranges or if further evaluation may be warranted.

Supporting Monitoring and Follow Up

This panel can be used to monitor changes over time, particularly in response to lifestyle modifications such as dietary changes, increased physical activity, or weight management efforts. Tracking these markers can help determine whether metabolic parameters are improving, remaining stable, or changing in a way that may require additional attention. Regular monitoring can provide a clearer picture of trends rather than isolated results.

Clinical Context and Broader Health Insights

The results may contribute to the evaluation of conditions such as insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, dyslipidemia, or liver related metabolic changes. Lipid levels may be used to assess cardiovascular risk patterns, while glucose and Hemoglobin A1c provide insight into glycemic control. Liver enzymes may help identify patterns consistent with metabolic associated changes in liver function.

It is important that results are interpreted in the context of overall health, lifestyle factors, and clinical history. This panel provides a foundational set of data that can guide further testing, support ongoing monitoring, and contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of metabolic health in relation to visceral fat.

A Foundational Approach to Metabolic Health

The Visceral Fat Foundation Panel offers a focused and practical approach to evaluating key aspects of metabolic health that are commonly associated with visceral fat. By combining markers that assess glucose regulation, lipid metabolism, and organ function, it provides a well rounded view of how the body is managing core metabolic processes.

Visceral fat is closely linked to metabolic activity, and changes in metabolic markers can offer valuable insight into how the body is responding to energy balance and storage. While this panel does not measure fat directly, it evaluates the systems most influenced by visceral fat, allowing for a more meaningful understanding of metabolic function.

This panel is designed to support both initial assessment and ongoing monitoring. It provides clear, clinically relevant data that can help guide further evaluation and support informed decision making. By focusing on essential biomarkers, it serves as a reliable starting point for exploring metabolic health and identifying patterns that may benefit from closer attention.

With an emphasis on clarity, consistency, and clinical relevance, the Visceral Fat Foundation Panel supports a comprehensive understanding of metabolic processes. It reinforces the value of a structured approach to evaluating metabolic health and provides a strong foundation for ongoing health monitoring.

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