Question 1

What is Obesity?

Accepted Answer

Obesity is a complex metabolic disorder characterized by excessive body fat accumulation that impairs health. It is caused by insulin resistance, leptin resistance, hormonal imbalances including low adiponectin and reduced sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), and disrupted fat metabolism involving elevated TMAO levels. The Proinsulin test is the most important test for obesity diagnosis because it directly measures insulin resistance, the primary metabolic dysfunction driving weight gain.

Question 2

What causes obesity?

Accepted Answer

Obesity is caused by insulin resistance, leptin resistance, hormonal imbalances, and disrupted fat metabolism. Insulin resistance occurs when your cells stop responding properly to insulin, causing your body to store more fat and making weight loss extremely difficult. Leptin resistance means your brain no longer receives signals that you are full, leading to constant hunger and overeating. Additional factors include low adiponectin levels (a fat-regulating hormone), reduced sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) causing hormonal imbalances, and elevated TMAO levels that disrupt how your body processes and stores fat.

Question 3

What is the best test for obesity?

Accepted Answer

The Proinsulin test is the most important test for obesity because it directly measures insulin resistance, the primary metabolic dysfunction driving weight gain and making weight loss difficult. Elevated proinsulin levels indicate your body is struggling to process sugar properly and is storing excess calories as fat. Additional essential tests include the Leptin Serum test to assess leptin resistance and appetite regulation, the Adiponectin test to evaluate fat tissue metabolism, the Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) test to identify hormonal imbalances contributing to weight gain, and the TMAO test to detect disrupted fat metabolism pathways.

Question 4

When should I get tested for obesity?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you have difficulty losing weight despite diet and exercise, experience constant hunger or cravings even after eating, notice weight gain concentrated around your midsection, have a family history of diabetes or metabolic syndrome, or struggle with fatigue and low energy levels. Testing is especially important if you have other risk factors like high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, or prediabetes. Early detection of insulin resistance and hormonal imbalances allows you to address the root metabolic causes of weight gain before they lead to serious complications like type 2 diabetes or heart disease.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of obesity?

Accepted Answer

Obesity symptoms include excessive body fat particularly around the abdomen, difficulty performing physical activities, shortness of breath with minimal exertion, constant fatigue and low energy, joint and back pain from excess weight, difficulty sleeping or sleep apnea, excessive sweating, and frequent infections. Many people with obesity also experience psychological symptoms including low self-esteem, depression, and social isolation. Metabolic symptoms include constant hunger despite eating regularly, intense sugar and carbohydrate cravings, difficulty concentrating, and skin changes like darkened patches in body folds indicating insulin resistance.

Question 6

Who is at risk for obesity?

Accepted Answer

People with a family history of obesity or diabetes face higher risk due to genetic factors affecting metabolism and appetite regulation. Those with sedentary lifestyles, poor dietary habits high in processed foods and sugar, chronic stress, and inadequate sleep are at increased risk. Certain medical conditions including hypothyroidism, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), Cushing syndrome, and depression increase obesity risk. Medications like antidepressants, antipsychotics, corticosteroids, and some diabetes medications can promote weight gain. Age also plays a role as metabolism naturally slows and muscle mass decreases, making weight management more challenging after age 40.

Question 7

What happens if obesity is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated obesity leads to type 2 diabetes as insulin resistance worsens and your pancreas can no longer produce enough insulin to compensate. You face significantly increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure as excess weight strains your cardiovascular system. Obesity causes fatty liver disease, kidney disease, osteoarthritis from joint damage, sleep apnea that disrupts breathing during sleep, and increases risk for multiple cancers including breast, colon, endometrial, kidney, and esophageal cancer. Mental health suffers with higher rates of depression and anxiety, while overall quality of life declines due to physical limitations and reduced mobility.

Question 8

Can obesity be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Obesity itself is diagnosed through body mass index (BMI) calculation and physical assessment, but blood tests are essential for identifying the underlying metabolic and hormonal causes making weight loss difficult. The Proinsulin test reveals insulin resistance, the Leptin test detects leptin resistance affecting appetite control, the Adiponectin test measures fat metabolism hormones, the SHBG test identifies hormonal imbalances, and the TMAO test assesses fat processing pathways. These blood tests provide critical information about why your body is storing excess fat and guide personalized treatment strategies to address the root causes rather than just the symptom of excess weight.

Question 9

How is obesity treated?

Accepted Answer

Obesity treatment begins with lifestyle modifications including a balanced diet focused on whole foods, lean proteins, vegetables, and complex carbohydrates while limiting processed foods and added sugars. Regular physical activity combining aerobic exercise and strength training helps burn calories and build metabolism-boosting muscle. Behavioral therapy addresses emotional eating patterns and develops healthy habits. When lifestyle changes are insufficient, medications like GLP-1 agonists (semaglutide, liraglutide) or orlistat may be prescribed to reduce appetite or block fat absorption. For severe obesity, bariatric surgery including gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy provides significant weight loss by restricting food intake or altering nutrient absorption.

Question 10

How can I prevent obesity?

Accepted Answer

Prevent obesity by maintaining a balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins while avoiding processed foods, sugary beverages, and excessive portion sizes. Engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity weekly, combined with strength training exercises twice weekly. Prioritize 7-9 hours of quality sleep nightly as poor sleep disrupts hunger hormones and increases cravings. Manage stress through meditation, yoga, or other relaxation techniques since chronic stress promotes fat storage. Monitor your weight regularly to catch small gains before they become significant, stay hydrated with water instead of caloric beverages, and limit alcohol consumption which adds empty calories.

Question 11

What natural remedies help with obesity?

Accepted Answer

Natural approaches to support weight management include increasing fiber intake through vegetables, legumes, and whole grains to promote fullness and regulate blood sugar. Green tea contains catechins that may boost metabolism and fat burning. Apple cider vinegar before meals may help reduce appetite and improve insulin sensitivity. Probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, and fermented vegetables support gut bacteria that influence weight regulation. Adequate protein intake preserves muscle mass during weight loss and increases satiety. Stay hydrated as water before meals reduces calorie intake, and consider intermittent fasting approaches that align with your natural eating patterns. Mindful eating practices including eating slowly, avoiding distractions during meals, and recognizing true hunger versus emotional eating also support sustainable weight management.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Obesity Blood Test Panel

What is Obesity?

What causes obesity?

What is the best test for obesity?

When should I get tested for obesity?

References

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