GLOSSARY

Serum Albumin is a circulating protein affected by inflammation, fluid balance and organ function; it is not an isolated measure of protein intake or muscle mass.

Laboratory markers provide information within a clinical context rather than a complete nutrition diagnosis. Albumin and prealbumin are affected by inflammation, fluid balance, organ function and other processes, so they should not be interpreted as direct isolated measures of protein intake or muscle mass. A reference interval is not automatically the optimal target for an athlete. Combine relevant tests with intake, physical findings, symptoms and trends, and consider the method and timing before attributing a result to diet alone.

Fasting glucose, glycated hemoglobin, an oral glucose tolerance test and fasting insulin examine different aspects of glucose regulation. Results can be influenced by illness, preparation, medication and other clinical factors. HOMA estimates are model-based surrogate indices and do not directly measure whole-body insulin sensitivity or diagnose an individual in isolation. Interpret units, laboratory methods and the relevant population. Exercise-related changes should be discussed in context rather than labeled as disease or excellent metabolic health from one isolated reading.

For example, low albumin during an inflammatory illness should not be labeled proof that the person ate too little protein. Review inflammation, fluid balance, organ function, intake and physical findings together. A laboratory result is one part of the assessment and should answer a defined clinical question rather than replace it.

A lipid profile needs the measured components, units, sampling conditions and clinical purpose to be clear. LDL, HDL, total cholesterol and triglycerides describe different quantities, while non-HDL cholesterol summarizes cholesterol carried outside HDL. A fasting sample may be requested for particular reasons but is not required for every lipid assessment. Evaluate trends and cardiovascular risk rather than treating one favorable component as permission to ignore an unfavorable one. Athletic status does not make an abnormal result automatically harmless.