Understanding Your Biomarkers

What Are Biomarkers?

Biomarkers are measurable indicators of normal biological processes, pathogenic processes, or responses to an exposure or intervention. In simpler terms, they are objective measurements that provide insights into your body's functioning and health status. Unlike symptoms, which are subjective experiences, biomarkers offer quantifiable data that can be tracked over time.

For organizations implementing health and wellbeing programs, understanding employee biomarkers is essential for developing targeted interventions that address specific health needs rather than one-size-fits-all approaches. These biological indicators help quantify health status and track improvements in response to health and wellbeing initiatives.

Key Biomarkers We Track

At Stratos Health, our comprehensive biomarker testing focuses on several key areas that provide a holistic view of health and longevity:

Metabolic Health Markers

• Glucose levels and insulin sensitivity – Indicators of your body's ability to manage energy and maintain stable blood sugar
• Lipid profiles – Including cholesterol subtypes and triglycerides that impact cardiovascular health
• HbA1c – A measure of long-term blood glucose management

Inflammatory Markers

• High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) – An indicator of systemic inflammation
• Cytokines – Signaling proteins that regulate inflammation and immune response
• Homocysteine – Linked to inflammation and cardiovascular risk

Hormonal Balance

• Cortisol – The primary stress hormone
• Thyroid hormones – Critical for metabolism and energy regulation
• Sex hormones – Including testosterone, estrogen, and progesterone

Nutrient Status

• Vitamin D – Essential for immune function, bone health, and mood regulation
• B vitamins – Critical for energy production and neurological function
• Omega-3 levels – Important for cardiovascular and brain health

How We Use Biomarker Data

At Stratos Health, we don't just collect biomarker data – we translate it into actionable insights for organizational health programs:

• Personalized Intervention Strategies – Tailoring health and wellbeing recommendations based on individual biomarker profiles
• Risk Assessment – Identifying potential health concerns before they become serious issues
• Progress Tracking – Measuring the effectiveness of health interventions through objective data
• Health Optimization – Moving beyond disease prevention to optimal functioning

Taking Action on Your Biomarker Levels

Once we understand your biomarker profile, we develop personalized plans that may include:

• Nutritional Adjustments – Dietary changes tailored to address specific biomarker imbalances
• Exercise Protocols – Physical activity recommendations designed to improve particular biomarkers
• Stress Management Techniques – Interventions to optimize stress-related biomarkers
• Supplementation Strategies – Targeted supplements to address specific deficiencies or imbalances
• Sleep Optimization – Protocols to improve sleep quality and its effect on biomarkers

The Future of Biomarker Testing

As technology advances, biomarker testing is becoming more accessible, comprehensive, and insightful. Emerging technologies like continuous glucose monitoring, wearable devices for stress tracking, and at-home testing kits are making it easier than ever to monitor key health indicators regularly.

For organizations, these advancements mean health and wellbeing programs can be more data-driven, with real-time feedback on program effectiveness and employee health improvements.