Baseline Labs
From the moment I learned I carry APOE4/4, I turned to labs as my information foundation. Not just individual numbers – but patterns. This is the baseline framework I use and I what has helped me gain an understand of all labs, including pattern recognition and optimal targets, I joined www.labclarity.org. Thanks to LabClarity, my extended family reach out to me now for help deciphering their medical labs!
Here is what I focus on:
- metabolic health
- inflammation
- vascular risk
- nutrient status
- hormones
- toxin burden
- infections
- and overall resilience
Some of these labs are standard, others are more advanced. I did not run everything at once. For my brain protection, I prioritized
- lipids
- inflammation
- metabolic markers
I wanted one place where I could track everything over time — so I built this into a single system which I am sharing here for you to track your own numbers.
Start simple:
- run the core labs first
- understand your patterns
- don’t chase perfection on day one
Then expand:
- layer in additional markers over time
- follow trends, not single results
- use ratios to uncover hidden patterns
The Core Labs I Pay Attention to First
(These give me the fastest signal.)
Metabolic + Glucose Control
- Fasting Glucose
- Fasting Insulin
- Hemoglobin A1c
These markers tell me how efficiently I’m fueling my brain over time
Inflammation + Vascular Risk
- hs-CRP
- Homocysteine
- Ferritin
These marker reflect underlying damage and risk often before symptoms appear
Lipids
- triglycerides
- HDL-C
- LDL-C
- ApoB
These markers give a deeper dive into lipid transport
Thyroid (Energy + Brain Metabolism)
- TSH
- Free T3
- Free T4
- Reverse T3
These markers help assess how well thyroid hormone is being produced, converted, and utilized at the cellular level.
Foundational Nutrients
- Vitamin D
- Vitamin B12
- Folate
- Zinc
These nutrients support methylation, immune balance, and neurological function — and are often suboptimal even in otherwise healthy individuals.
The patterns matter more than the numbers
This is where things start to get interesting.
Check out the Calculator Page to learn more about patterns and ratios.