CEO, Dr. J. Alexander Bralley blogs on the importance of vitamin K and its connection with vitamin D. Also discussed are sources of vitamin K and how functional measurement is advantageous.

 

Read Dr. Bralley's Blog 

 

Vitamin K, a fat-soluble vitamin, functions as a cofactor in the production of blood coagulation factors (in the liver), osteocalcin (in bone), and matrix Gla-proteins (in cartilage and vessel walls) resulting in the deposition of ionic calcium. The Vitamin K Assay measures a functional marker, undercarboxlyated osteocalcin (ucOC). High undercarboxylated osteocalcin indicates low vitamin K status. Since very little vitamin K is stored in the body, direct measurement is not ideal.

 

 

 

Bone loss affects millions of Americans age 50 and older. The Bone Resorption Assay identifies individuals at risk for osteopororis or bone loss by measuring deoxypyridinoine, a fragment of Type I collagen breakdown and an accurate assessment of current bone loss. Individuals at high risk for bone loss, such as pre- and post-menopausal women or those with a family history of osteoporosis, should also assess their vitamin K status levels. Vitamin K insufficiency can indicate high levels of bone loss.

 

 

 

To receive a complete assessment of your vitamin levels, including vitamin K, the Fat-Soluble Vitamins Profile is an optimal choice. The Fat-Soluble Vitamins Profile measures vitamins A, D, E, K plus beta-carotene and coenzyme Q10 evaluating total body status of these antioxidant nutrients. By assessing these nutrients together in one panel, the results show how dependent these nutrients are on one another. Adequate levels of vitamins A, E, and K are all important for proper bone calcification.

 

 

Metametrix has announced new dates for the Applying Laboratory Evaluations seminar series for 2010! New dates include February 20/21, June 12/13, August 28/29. This seminar is taught by practicing clinicians and the writers of the landmark book, Laboratory Evaluations for Integrative and Functional Medicine, and geared toward clinicians looking to expand their use of functional laboratory testing.  The December 5/6 seminar is sold out - be sure to sign up for a 2010 seminar today! 

 

 

"This seminar has been extremely helpful and has provided the basics for me to begin using these advanced testing methods in my practice." - Constance J. Crisp, MD, October seminar attendee

 

 

 

 

Many Metametrix employees, friends, and loved-ones gathered on a crisp, cool Saturday morning to walk in support of those who've battled the fight against breast cancer. Metametrix is proud to support the American Cancer Society, our local Atlanta community, as well as bring awareness to breast cancer prevention. As Metametricians walked, we spoke with fellow walkers about the Estronex Profile. Metametrix employees raised over $1500 to support research for breast cancer!

 

 

 

 Metametrix Clinical Laboratory