Explore 10,000+ laboratory markers, in plain English.

Nonessential Protein Amino Acids

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is a neurotransmitter, or chemical messenger, in the brain that blocks specific signals in the central nervous system in order to slow down the brain. This provides a protective and calming effect on the brain and body. High fat diets are shown to reduce GABA levels in the prefrontal cortex by 40% which can result in various mood imbalances and difficulty sleeping.

Urinary gadolinium (Gd) provides an indication of recent or ongoing exposure to the metal, and endogenous detoxification to a lesser extent. Urinary Gd would be expected to be variably high if urine was collected within a week of medicinal Gd administration for imaging purposes. Gd is found in the environment in geographically variable amounts, and usually at very low levels. It is widely used in industrial and household applications such as radar technologies, compact discs, and microwaves; direct exposure from such sources is not a concern. However disposal of Gd-containing devices contributes to greater potential for human exposure. The single greatest direct source of exposure to Gd is Gd-based contrast agents (GBCAs) that are widely used with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Concern has been raised regarding the use of unstable linear GBCAs, especially for patients with mild to severe kidney dysfunction. Urinary Gd levels vary with the time after administration, and the dose of the specific GBCA. There is much controversy regarding the safety of certain unstable GBCAs; Gd doesn’t have physiological functions in the body. Urinary levels of Gd normally decrease rapidly after administration for patients who have good kidney function (glomerular filtration rate; GFR). However, the rate of Gd clearance may be markedly slowed with compromised GFR. While the Gd levels normally decrease rather rapidly in urine and feces, it is clear that some Gd is retained in the body for a long time. Of greatest potential concern is Gd deposition in the brain, which is correlated with the number of GBCA-enhanced MRI procedures. Gadolinium deposition disease has recently been described and may be associated with central and peripheral pain, headache, bone pain, skin thickening, muscle weakness, arthralgia, and persistent clouded mentation and headache. If such new symptoms appear 2-8 weeks after Gd-enhanced MRI, it is recommended to assess the level of Gd in urine (1st AM void or 24 hour collection). Elemental analysis of hair or nails may be used to assess exposure to Gd over a longer period of time, but reference values are not available for nails. Chelation may acutely increase urinary excretion of Gd.

Toxic and Nutrient Elements

Toxic metals

Toxic and Nutrient Elements

Aiding in the prognosis for people diagnosed with heart failure

The gallbladder is a small organ located under the liver that stores bile, a substance that helps to break down fats. Sometimes polyps (small growths, usually with a stalk) form along the mucosal surface of the gallbladder; it is unclear what causes this to happen. Gallbladder polyps can cause symptoms similar to gallstones - pain in the right upper abdominal area after eating, especially with fatty meals. Appropriate management and follow-up of gallbladder polyps depends on the size of the polyp. Gallbladder polyps equal to or smaller than 5 mm are usually benign (non-cancerous). These should be evaluated with a baseline ultrasound and a repeat ultrasound in 12 months. Follow-up examinations are not necessary if the polyp is stable with the repeat ultrasound. Discuss this finding with your primary care provider for further evaluation and management. --------------------- Maintaining a healthy diet can support overall gallbladder health and may help prevent new polyps or gallstones, which are often associated with polyps. Here are some dietary guidelines that can promote gallbladder health: Low-Fat Diet: High-fat diets, especially diets high in saturated fats, can increase the risk of gallstones and may exacerbate gallbladder issues. Opt for lean proteins, such as fish, poultry, and legumes. Fiber-Rich Foods: A diet high in fiber can help reduce the risk of gallstone formation. Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Healthy Fats: Include healthy fats in moderation, such as those found in avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps maintain digestive health and can aid in preventing gallstones. Moderate Carbohydrates: Excessive refined carbohydrates and sugars can contribute to obesity, which is a risk factor for gallstones and gallbladder disease. Choose complex carbohydrates like whole grains. Avoid Rapid Weight Loss: Rapid weight loss can increase the risk of gallstones. If you need to lose weight, aim for a gradual, steady reduction. Limit Alcohol and Caffeine: Excessive consumption of alcohol and caffeine may aggravate gallbladder issues in some individuals. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice, especially if you have gallbladder polyps or other gallbladder conditions. They can give you specific recommendations based on your overall health, the size and type of your polyps, and any other medical conditions you may have. Remember, while diet can support gallbladder health, it is not a substitute for medical treatment when necessary.

a multi-cancer early detection test

Toxic and Nutrient Elements

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is an amino acid that functions as an inhibitory neurotransmitter. It serves one-third of brain neurons and is involved in depression and mania. Although there are some dietary supplement and food sources for GABA (cruciferous vegetables, spinach, tomatoes, beans, and rice), the primary source may be endogenous prodution. Nervous tissue, the gut microbiome, the liver, pancreas, and endothelial cells are important sources for production. Endogenous GABA is produced by the decarboxylation of the excitatory neurotransmitter glutamic acid. It can also be produced from the diamine putrescine using diamine oxidase (DAO). Also, the gut microbiome is capable of synthesizing various hormones and neurotransmitters. For example, Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species can produce GABA. In general, plasma GABA may reflect brain GABA activity, however urine GABA levels are felt not to correlate with CNS levels.

a class of proteins that are present in wheat and other cereal