Living Proof

For #WellnessWednesday, I often discuss the methodology of my lifestyle - the fasting windows, the ketogenic nutrition, and the exercise protocols. Today, I want to discuss the results.

We often judge our health by how we look in the mirror or how our clothes fit. While valid, these are subjective metrics. As someone who values data, I prefer to look at the objective evidence provided by bloodwork.

I recently received the results from my latest panel, and the data offers a compelling validation of the changes I have made.

Note: All of the images below are screen captures taken directly from the Lab and Diagnostics section of my Records in the YourHealthNS app, and have not been altered in any way. The blood collection was taken on January 2nd, 2026.

1. Metabolic Flexibility (The A1c)

The most significant marker in this report is my Hemoglobin A1c (glycated hemoglobin). This metric provides an average of blood sugar levels over the past three months. My result was 4.5%.

For context, the standard reference range typically begins at 4.6% or higher. A result of 4.5% is exceptionally low, indicating that my blood sugar is incredibly stable. In the context of a clean ketogenic diet, this confirms that my body has achieved a state of high metabolic efficiency, with zero signs of insulin resistance or pre-diabetes.

2. Cardiovascular Health (The Lipid Panel)

There is often concern that a high-fat diet (like keto) will negatively impact cardiovascular health. My results suggest the opposite.

• Triglycerides: My level is 1.43 mmol/L, well within the normal healthy range of 0 mmol/L - 1.7 mmol/L. Low triglycerides are a hallmark of carbohydrate restriction.

• LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein, the "Bad" Cholesterol): This marker came in at 1.16 mmol/L, which is very low compared to the normal limit of 3.5 mmol/L.

It is worth noting that my HDL ("Good" Cholesterol) is slightly lower than the reference range (>=1 mmol/L) at 0.82 mmol/L. However, this is a common, temporary physiological response during periods of active weight loss (I am currently down over 60 lbs) as the body mobilizes stored fat.

3. The Creatine Factor (Kidney Function)

One area that requires nuanced interpretation is kidney function. My results showed a slightly elevated Creatinine level (105 umol/L) and Urea level (8.9 mmol/L).

If viewed in isolation by a general practitioner unaware of my lifestyle, these might raise a flag. However, context is critical.

1. High Protein Intake: I consume a diet rich in protein, which naturally elevates urea.

2. Creatine Supplementation: I take a daily dose of 5 grams of creatine monohydrate. Creatinine is a metabolic breakdown product of creatine. When you supplement with creatine, your blood levels of creatinine will naturally rise.

3. Muscle Turnover: Regular resistance training (calisthenics) also releases creatinine into the bloodstream.

My eGFR (Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate) remains healthy at 73 mL/min, confirming that my kidneys are filtering effectively. The slightly elevated Creatinine and Urea numbers are not a sign of dysfunction, but rather a reflection of my supplementation and activity level.

4. Indicators of a Low-Inflammatory State

Beyond the headline numbers, there are subtle markers in the report that specifically validate the "clean" aspect of my ketogenic protocol. These values indicate that the body is operating efficiently without the burden of systemic inflammation often caused by processed foods.

• The Immune Shift: The report notes a distinct pattern in my immune profile. My lymphocyte percentage is slightly elevated (43.5%) while neutrophils are slightly lower (43.1%). It suggests my immune system is not being taxed by dietary irritants, a result of my anti-inflammatory protocols.

• Liver Function (ALT): Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease is a growing concern tied to modern diets. My Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) level is 32 U/L, sitting comfortably in the healthy range. This confirms that despite a high-fat diet, there is no fatty liver issue.

• Electrolyte Precision: One of the most challenging aspects of a ketogenic lifestyle is managing hydration, as the diet naturally flushes electrolytes. My results show that my Sodium (140 mmol/L) and Potassium (4.2 mmol/L) are perfectly balanced. This is a direct validation that my hydration and supplementation strategy is precise.

The Takeaway

These results serve as a reassuring baseline. They confirm that the "clean keto" and intermittent fasting protocols are not just helping me lose weight; they are actively optimizing my metabolic and cardiovascular health.

It is a reminder that the best way to manage your health is to measure it.