Heart Health Testing

Would you like to learn about how your nutrition can impact your cardiac health? Consider SpectraCell testing today!

Steps for Heart Health Testing

At Rebecca Bitzer & Associates we utilize specialty lipoprotein particle testing through SpectraCell Laboratories to evaluate your cardiac health and learn about your risk for heart disease. Your Registered Dietitian Nutritionist will be able to give you specific recommendations based on your report results.

See here for a Cardio Metabolic Sample Report

The lipoprotein particle testing is different from the standard test done by your doctor. The lipid profile goes beyond the standard “good” HDL cholesterol and “bad” LDL cholesterol, and will show us not only cholesterol and will show you the particle sizes of the cholesterol.  Why are particle sizes more important? Studies have shown the the sizes of the lipoprotein particle are more important when it comes to preventing plaque formation, rather than the cholesterol itself.  We also have the options of adding on some further testing to measure thyroid function and genetic markers. Your dietitian will use these results to determine nutritional recommendations and supplement needs.

Process of getting your results:

1. First meet with your Registered Dietitian Nutritionist in order for them to review your medical history, family history, symptoms, and goals.  Your dietitian will be able to evaluate if this testing is a good option for you!
2. Next have your blood drawn for the testing. We have a certified phlebotomist in our Greenbelt and Columbia office monthly.  If the dates of our blood draw do not work for your schedule, the phlebotomist is happy to come to a location at the is convenient for you at another time, for an additional cost. Your dietitian can schedule you for this at your initial appointment.
3. The test is FASTING- no food for 12 hours if possible, you can drink plenty of water. Take your medications as prescribed, if you need to take medications with food please do what you need to to get to our office safely.  Consult with your doctor to determine a game plan for blood test day.
4. Results typically come back to us within 3-4 weeks, our office will alert you when we have received them in order to follow up for an appointment to discuss your results. You will be given multiple copies and we urge you to share with your doctors!

Interested in getting an in depth view of your health from the inside out?  Contact us at 301-474-2499 to schedule an initial appointment with one of our Registered Dietitian Nutritionists or fill out our contact form below.