Type 2 diabetes is characterized by an excess production of insulin as a result of eating. Insulin is the most important regulator of blood glucose. High blood glucose (such as shortly after a meal) stimulates the release of insulin, whereas low blood glucose levels prevent insulin release. The glucose tolerance (GTT) and C-peptide tests have been the routine way to diagnose diabetes.

This test evaluates low blood sugar. The procedure is frequently ordered following an abnormal GTT, or when a patient has acute symptoms of hypoglycemia. However, measuring the body's insulin-production levels earlier can improve the GTT by more accurately determining the risk of diabetes long before symptoms emerge. The procedure usually entails drawing two blood samples - one after fasting and the other two hours after drinking a glucose solution.

Aside from your blood pressure, many experts consider test the single most effective diagnostic for overall health. This blood test measures the degree of inflammation in your body. CRP is a protein produced by our immune system that fuels the fire of inflamation in our bodies. Therefore, the higher your CPR level, the more at risk your are to develop health problems. Levels less than 10 mg/L are considered healthy. Most infections will show CRP levels above 100mg/L.

Elevated CRP levels have been shown to precede and predict heart attacks, stroke, diabetes, high blood pressure, Alzheimer's disease, aneurysms, abnormal heart rhythms, colon cancer, and macular degeneration. It is also ordered to help evaluate conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. It's importnat to understand that CRP doesn't pinpoint a particular disease or condition. It determines if you're susceptible to problems and additional test may be necessary. CRP levels can be lowered by exercise, weight loss, and a proper diet.

A study published in The American Journal of Medicine states that an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease, C-reactive protein (CRP), can be reduced by simply consuming a multivitamin. The study showed that a group taking a 24-ingredient multivitamin reduced its CRP level by 32 percent. The greatest reductions in CRP were found in individuals with elevated baseline values.

NOTE: Another test to monitor inflammation is called the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR). Both tests give similar information about the presence of inflammation. However, CRP levels respond more quickly than the ESR. Thus, your CRP level may fall to normal if you have been treated successfully, such as for a flare-up of arthritis, but your ESR may still be abnormal for a while longer.

Vitamin D is essential for healthy bones, cardiac health, and the prevention of breast and prostrate cancers. Studies show that most Amercans do not get enough of this mineral through foods and exposure to the sun. A blood test will show if you're getting enough D.

Nearly 20% of Amerians may be infected with a bacteria responsible for stomache cancer, ulcers, heartburn, and some eye disorders. The culprit is Helicobacter pylori, typically enters the body by consuming contminated food, and can remain a chronic problem. The infection is cured by antibiotics and antacids.