Fitness Profile

Creatine kinase is an important marker for muscle and heart diseases. Its determination allows for the early detection of damage to these tissues and is therefore an indispensable tool in clinical diagnostics.

Creatinine is a breakdown product of muscle metabolism that is filtered out of the blood by the kidneys. The creatinine level provides information about kidney function, with elevated levels potentially indicating a possible kidney dysfunction.

Vitamin B12 is an essential vitamin needed for the formation of red blood cells, the function of the nervous system, and the production of DNA. It is found almost exclusively in animal foods such as meat, fish, eggs, and dairy products.

A deficiency in Vitamin B12 can lead to anemia, fatigue, concentration problems, and nerve damage. Those at increased risk for a deficiency include older adults, vegetarians, vegans, or individuals with absorption disorders in the intestine.

25-OH vitamin D is the storage form of vitamin D that the body produces in the liver from vitamin D formed by sunlight or food. Vitamin D supports calcium absorption, ensures healthy bones and teeth, and plays an important role for muscles, nerves, and the immune system.

The 25-OH vitamin D test is the best method to check vitamin D status. Low levels can indicate too little sunlight, an unbalanced diet, or diseases and are associated with bone diseases such as osteoporosis or rickets. Excessive levels usually result from too high supplement doses and can strain the kidneys and liver.

HDL cholesterol is often referred to as "good cholesterol" because it transports excess cholesterol from the vessels to the liver. There, it is broken down or recycled, reducing deposits in the arteries. Thus, HDL helps to keep the vessels healthy and free from calcifications.

High HDL levels are considered beneficial as they are associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular diseases. Low levels, on the other hand, increase the risk of arteriosclerosis and heart attack.