Bloodwork Essentials for Women 35+
(Bring this checklist to your doctor or naturopath)
1. Hormone Panel (especially important for South Asians with early perimenopause)
- Estradiol (E2) → Checks estrogen levels
- Progesterone → Balances mood, periods, and fat storage
- Free & Total Testosterone → Supports muscle, energy, and libido
- DHEA-S → Stress & adrenal health
- FSH + LH → Key markers for perimenopause/menopause stage
2. Thyroid Function Panel (not just TSH)
- TSH, Free T3, Free T4, Reverse T3, and anti-TPO antibodies
(South Asians have higher rates of thyroid dysfunction — often missed when only TSH is tested.)
3. Metabolic Health Panel
- Fasting Glucose (ideal <5.0 mmol/L)
- Fasting Insulin (goal <8 µIU/mL; critical for detecting early insulin resistance)
- HbA1c (3-month blood sugar average)
- Lipid Panel (HDL, LDL, triglycerides)
- hs-CRP (marker of systemic inflammation)
4. Nutrient Deficiencies (common in South Asians)
- Vitamin D (essential for hormones, bones, immunity)
- Vitamin B12 (energy + nervous system health)
- Ferritin (iron storage; low levels affect energy & hair health)
- Magnesium & Zinc (important for metabolism and sleep)