The HealthMatters Journal — evidence-based health writing
Topic

Biomarkers

HDL Cholesterol
Biomarkers · 2 min read

What is “HDL Cholesterol”?

The “good” cholesterol in your body is high-density lipoprotein, or HDL, cholesterol. It’s highly desirable to have an elevated level of HDL because it…

Biomarkers · 2 min read

What is the “Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR)”?

The Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) is the rate at which the erythrocytes settle down. Normally, the red blood cells (RBCs) remain suspended uniformly in circulation.…

Biomarkers · 2 min read

What is “Vitamin D”

Vitamin D has received a lot of attention over the past decades, because of the extensive health-related research that has been published on it.…

Biomarkers · 2 min read

What is Progesterone?

Although progesterone is found in both males and females, it is primarily known for its role in conception, pregnancy, and the regulation of a…

Biomarkers · 3 min read

How to prepare for a blood test

It’s best to ask the lab or your doctor before going for testing to make sure that there are no special requirements for preparation…

Thyroid Hormones
Biomarkers · 1 min read

What are “Thyroid Hormones”?

Located in the neck, the thyroid gland produces hormones that control metabolism and energy production. These hormones regulate how each cell converts food into…

Biomarkers · 1 min read

What is “Cortisol”?

Made in the adrenal glands, cortisol is a steroid hormone that increases blood sugar, suppresses the immune system, fights inflammation, decreases bone formation, and…

DHEA
Biomarkers · 1 min read

What is “DHEA”?

What is DHEA? It stands for Dehydroepiandrosterone and is a building block of steroid hormones that is produced predominantly in the adrenal glands. It…

What are white blood cells?
Biomarkers · 1 min read

What are ‘White Blood Cells’?

White blood cells (WBCs), also known as leukocytes, are an essential component  of the immune system, serving to protect the body from harmful microorganisms.…

Biomarkers · 1 min read

What are ‘Platelets’?

Although they make up only a small portion of the blood, platelets are indispensable to your health. Their main function is to stop bleeding…