Lead
What This Test Measures
Toxic metal from old paint, water, environment
Conventional vs. Functional Optimal Range
The gap between these ranges is why you feel terrible with "normal" labs. Conventional medicine waits for disease. Functional medicine optimizes for health.
Gabriel's Take
Lead is neurotoxic and cardiotoxic, and CDC says no safe level is known. CDC uses 3.5 μg/dL as its reference value for children, and MedlinePlus calls 5 or higher elevated in adults. Sources: old paint, water pipes, work, some imported spices and remedies. Gabriel investigates sources first. Chelation is reserved for high levels (for children, CDC guidance brings in a specialist at 45 or higher) and is decided by a licensed clinician. Lead is vastly under-tested in conventional medicine.
When This Test Is High
Lead poisoning, cognitive impairment, cardiovascular disease
When This Test Is Low
Low body burden
Related Conditions
Cognitive decline, hypertension, kidney disease, anemia
Recommended Follow-Up
At 3.5 μg/dL or higher, find and remove the source (old paint, water, work, imported spices or remedies) and retest with your clinician; chelation is only for high levels, decided by a clinician