Anxiety is a common mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It can manifest as feelings of nervousness, fear, and worry and can interfere with daily life. While many individuals with anxiety turn to therapy or medication for relief, some may be surprised to learn that underlying medical conditions can contribute to anxiety symptoms. This is why it's essential to have a comprehensive evaluation, including blood tests, to help uncover the root cause of anxiety.
In this blog post, we will discuss the blood tests that can be helpful in evaluating individuals with anxiety. Dr. Katie is a naturopathic doctor who can order blood tests, like the ones listed above for her patients in Ontario. To get started or learn more about working with her, book your complimentary naturopathic strategy session today.
Nutritional Bloodwork for Anxiety
Iron test and Anxiety
Blood tests for iron are laboratory tests used to measure the amount of iron in the blood. There are several types of blood tests that can be used to measure iron levels, including serum iron test, total iron binding capacity (TIBC) test, ferritin test, transferrin saturation (TSAT) test, and iron deficiency test.
Symptoms of iron deficiency can include fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath, while symptoms of iron overload can include joint pain, fatigue, and abdominal pain. Iron tests are typically ordered by a healthcare provider when a patient is suspected of having an iron deficiency or iron overload.
Vitamins and anxiety
Vitamins and minerals are essential for physical and mental health, and a deficiency in B vitamins and D can lead to symptoms that mimic anxiety and depression such as nervousness, fatigue and irritability. Blood tests can help identify the underlying cause and guide treatment.
vitamin d tests and anxiety
Vitamin D deficiency has been associated with fatigue in some studies, and there is some evidence to suggest that low levels of vitamin D in the blood may contribute to feelings of tiredness and fatigue. Studies have found that individuals with vitamin D deficiency are more likely to experience symptoms of fatigue and weakness than those with higher levels.
Blood tests for vitamin D are used to measure the level of vitamin D. 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) is the most common test used to measure vitamin D status, measuring the total amount of vitamin D in the body.
Risk factors for vitamin D deficiency include limited sun exposure, a diet low in vitamin D, medical conditions, and certain medications. If a deficiency or excess is detected, treatment may involve supplementation or dietary changes and may be supervised by a healthcare provider.
Vitamin b12 tests and anxiety
Vitamin B12 plays an important role in energy metabolism and the production of red blood cells, which can lead to fatigue, weakness, and anemia. Vitamin B12 deficiency can also affect the nervous system and cause symptoms such as numbness, tingling, and difficulty with balance and coordination.
There is some evidence that supplementation with vitamin B12 may help to reduce fatigue in individuals with low levels of this nutrient, and getting your Vitamin B12 levels checked is an important step to manage and overcome depression.
Blood tests can be used to measure vitamin B12 levels in the body, such as the serum vitamin B12 test. A healthcare provider may order a serum vitamin B12 test if they suspect that a person is deficient in this nutrient or if they have symptoms related to vitamin B12 deficiency. Knowing a patient’s B12 blood test results is important to make a diagnosis and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
Hormonal Bloodwork for Anxiety
Thyroid testing and anxiety
The thyroid gland is one of the most important glands in the body, producing thyroid hormones that regulate metabolism, heart rate, and body temperature. Low thyroid hormones can cause chronic fatigue, brain fog, low mood, forgetfulness, and weakness.
Blood tests can help determine if a thyroid problem is the underlying cause of anxiety symptoms. The most common thyroid function blood tests include the thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) test, which measures the level of TSH, a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that stimulates the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones. The most important details are that elevated levels of TSH can indicate an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), while low levels can indicate an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism).
Free T4 (thyroxine) and free T3 (triiodothyronine) tests measure the level of free T4, and free T3 the active forms of thyroid hormones. Thyroid antibody tests measure the levels of antibodies produced by the immune system that can attack the thyroid gland and cause thyroid dysfunction. These tests are typically ordered by a healthcare provider if they suspect that a person may have thyroid dysfunction.
Cortisol testing and anxiety
The adrenal glands are responsible for producing stress hormones, such as cortisol, that help the body respond to stress. Abnormalities in adrenal function can cause feelings of anxiety and panic, as well as physical symptoms, such as fatigue and weight changes.
Adrenal function tests are blood tests used to measure the level of cortisol, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands, and can help determine if adrenal problems are the underlying cause of anxiety symptoms. The most common cortisol blood test is the morning cortisol test, which measures cortisol levels in the morning when they are typically at their highest. A healthcare provider may also order other cortisol blood tests to help diagnose or monitor certain medical conditions.
Anyone who is concerned about their cortisol levels should consult a health care practitioner to get blood testing.
Looking for a comprehensive anxiety evaluation that includes bloodwork?
I’m currently accepting patients with anxiety symptoms, who live in Ontario and are ready to take back control of their health from anxiety. My signature Tranquil Minds Program involves comprehensive blood work evaluations as part of a naturopathic care plan. Learn more about the program or book your complimentary strategy session today to get started or find out if Tranquil Minds is the right care for you.
Sex hormone testing and anxiety
Sex hormone blood tests are used to measure the levels of various hormones involved in reproductive function, including testosterone, estrogen, progesterone, Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH).
Estradiol is an estrogen and the primary female sex hormone, responsible for the development and regulation of the female reproductive system. It plays a significant role in the mental health of women. There is a strong link between estradiol, mood and well-being, and research shows that stabilizing or restoring estrogen levels can help women recover from depression.
Hormonal imbalances, such as those associated with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), can also affect mood and mental health. Estrogen is produced primarily by the ovaries in females, but small amounts are also produced by the adrenal glands in both sexes. Estrogen levels are important for regulating the menstrual cycle, maintaining bone density, and promoting sexual development in females.
Progesterone is produced by the ovaries in females and is important for regulating the menstrual cycle and preparing the uterus for pregnancy. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) are also important for regulating the menstrual cycle and stimulating the production of testosterone and estrogen in both sexes.
In males, testosterone levels have been linked to mood and behaviour, with low testosterone levels sometimes associated with depression and anxiety. Testosterone blood tests are used to measure the levels of various hormones involved in reproductive function. Testosterone levels are typically higher in males than in females and are important for maintaining muscle mass, bone density, and sex drive.
A healthcare provider may order sex hormone blood tests if they suspect that a person has a hormonal imbalance or a condition that affects reproductive function.
Metabolic Bloodwork for Anxiety
Blood sugar testing and anxiety
Blood sugar levels are important for mental health, as they can affect brain function and lead to symptoms that affect mental health. High blood sugar levels can cause cognitive impairment, mood swings, and even depression. Low blood sugar levels, which can occur in conditions such as hypoglycemia, can cause symptoms such as confusion, irritability, and anxiety.
People with diabetes or other conditions that affect blood sugar should work closely with their healthcare team to manage their condition and prevent potential impacts on their mental health.
Blood sugar blood tests are used to measure the levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood, such as fasting blood glucose, random blood glucose, oral glucose tolerance, and hemoglobin A1c.
These tests can help diagnose diabetes and monitor blood glucose levels. High blood glucose levels over a long period of time can lead to complications such as heart disease, kidney disease, and nerve damage. By monitoring blood glucose levels and working with a healthcare team to manage diabetes, people with diabetes can reduce their risk of developing these complications and improve their mental health.
Bloodwork for Celiac Disease and Anxiety
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that affects the small intestine and is triggered by consuming gluten. Research suggests that people with celiac disease may have a higher risk of developing anxiety and depression compared to the general population. The exact mechanisms behind the association between celiac disease and mental health are not fully understood, but it is believed that inflammation in the body caused by the autoimmune response to gluten may play a role.
Blood tests can be used to diagnose celiac disease, monitor the condition, and check for complications. These tests include tissue transglutaminase (tTG) antibodies, endomysial antibodies (EMA), total serum IgA, deamidated gliadin peptide (DGP) antibodies, and a biopsy of the small intestine.
It is important to be aware of the potential impact on mental health and to seek support and treatment if needed.
Ready for your next Steps?
If you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, it's essential to have a comprehensive evaluation that includes blood tests. By identifying underlying medical conditions, your healthcare provider can provide the appropriate treatment to help relieve your anxiety symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Remember, it's always best to consult with a licensed healthcare professional for personalized medical advice and treatment.
Dr. Katie is a naturopathic doctor who can order blood tests, like the ones listed above for her patients in Ontario. To get started or learn more about working with her, book your complimentary naturopathic strategy session today.