We all know the importance of early diagnosis, which is why many of us proactively get health checkups done quarterly, half-yearly, or annually, even without a doctor’s prescription. Common blood tests like blood sugar, HbA1c, thyroid, and lipid profiles are typically at the top of the list. However, there is one test that often gets overlooked yet holds significant value in knowing about our health - the fasting insulin test.

A functional medicine expert, Shivani Bajwa, has shared that this test gives unique insights into the body’s metabolic health. "It can tell you a lot about your weight, your metabolism, your energy, it's so simple and affordable. If it's above 10, you need to talk and need to understand what to do as it's a fat storing hormone that is not working in your favour." Despite its importance, the expert wonders why it’s rarely prescribed during regular checkups.

Well, if you are confusing it with fasting blood sugar test, we are here to tell you it is not the same. They measure different things and provide unique results.

Fasting Blood Sugar Test checks the amount of sugar (glucose) in your blood after you have fasted for 8-12 hours. It helps identify if your blood sugar levels are normal, too high (which indicates diabetes or prediabetes), or too low.

On the other hand, Fasting Insulin Test measures the level of insulin in your blood after fasting. Insulin is the hormone that helps move sugar from your blood into your cells for energy. If your insulin levels are high, it could mean your body is struggling to use insulin effectively.

While they go hand in hand, in simple terms, the blood sugar test shows how much sugar is in your blood, while the insulin test reveals how well your body is managing that sugar. Both tests together can give a clearer picture of your metabolic health.

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