Weight Loss Management + Thyroid
A 22-marker weight-loss blood test that includes full thyroid function, ideal for ruling out underactive thyroid as a factor in weight change.
Blood Tests, Diabetes, Digestive Health, General Health, Thyroid, Weight Loss- Description
- Associated Conditions
- Uses of This Test
- Why This Test?
The Weight Loss Management + Thyroid blood test combines the full Essential weight-loss profile with thyroid function testing. It’s designed for patients who want to understand whether thyroid hormones could be contributing to difficulty losing weight, fatigue, or changes in metabolism.
Alongside the 20 biomarkers covering cholesterol, blood sugar, liver, kidney, and pancreatic health, this profile adds Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) and Free T4 to assess how the thyroid is regulating metabolism. An underactive thyroid is a common and often overlooked cause of weight gain and low energy.
This test is ideal as a baseline before starting GLP-1 treatment, for patients who have struggled to lose weight despite lifestyle changes, or for anyone who wants a more complete picture of their metabolic health.
Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid)
A condition where the thyroid produces insufficient hormone, commonly causing weight gain, fatigue, low mood, and cold intolerance.
Subclinical Hypothyroidism
An early or mild form of hypothyroidism where TSH is raised but thyroid hormones remain within range. Can still affect weight and energy.
Hyperthyroidism (Overactive Thyroid)
A condition where the thyroid produces excess hormone, sometimes causing unintentional weight loss, anxiety, and palpitations.
Type 2 Diabetes
A condition of elevated blood sugar often linked to excess weight. Monitored through HbA1c as part of a weight-loss plan.
Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD_
A common condition in people carrying excess weight, where fat builds up in the liver. Detected via elevated ALT, AST, or GGT.
GLP-1 Related Pancreatitis
A rare but monitored side effect of GLP-1 medications. Lipase and amylase are used to detect pancreatic inflammation early.
Metabolic Syndrome
A cluster of cardiovascular risk factors including high cholesterol, raised blood sugar, and central obesity.
- Rule out thyroid dysfunction as a cause of weight gain
- Baseline test before starting GLP-1 treatment (Mounjaro®, Wegovy®)
- Investigate fatigue, low mood, or sluggish metabolism
- Ongoing monitoring during weight-loss treatment
- Screen for fatty liver, diabetes, and cholesterol imbalance
- Monitor pancreatic health during GLP-1 therapy
- Provide a more complete metabolic picture for stalled weight loss
The thyroid gland plays a central role in regulating metabolism, energy, and weight. Even subtle thyroid imbalances can make weight loss more difficult and may mimic or mask side effects of weight-loss medication.
This test is important because:
- It rules out thyroid dysfunction as a contributor to weight gain or slow weight loss.
- It covers all the core safety markers recommended before and during GLP-1 treatment.
- It investigates fatigue, low mood, or cold intolerance that may accompany thyroid issues.
- It supports a more personalised treatment plan by identifying hormonal causes of weight change.
- It provides reassurance and clarity for patients who feel they are “doing everything right” but not losing weight.
Results are often reviewed alongside symptoms, medical history, weight-loss goals, and current treatment.
What We Test
Biomarkers analysed by accredited UK laboratories
Biomarkers Tested
Lipid Profile
- Total Cholesterol
Combined measure of all cholesterol types in the blood. Used alongside HDL, LDL, and triglycerides to evaluate cardiovascular risk.
- Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL) Cholesterol
Often called “bad cholesterol”, elevated LDL contributes to plaque build-up in arteries and increases cardiovascular risk. A key marker to monitor during weight-loss treatment.
- High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) Cholesterol
Known as “good cholesterol”, HDL helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream. Higher levels are protective against heart disease.
- HDL Percentage
Calculates HDL as a proportion of total cholesterol. Useful for assessing the overall quality of the lipid profile alongside absolute values.
- Triglycerides
A type of fat in the blood linked to diet, alcohol, and metabolic health. Elevated levels can indicate insulin resistance or cardiovascular risk.
Assesses cholesterol balance and cardiovascular risk, which are strongly influenced by weight and diet.
Diabetes & Metabolic Health
- HbA1c (Glycosylated Haemoglobin)
Reflects average blood glucose over the previous 2–3 months. Used to screen for pre-diabetes, diagnose diabetes, and monitor long-term metabolic control during weight loss.
Evaluates long-term blood sugar control - a core marker for anyone on a weight-loss programme.
Thyroid Function
- Thyroid Stimulating (TSH)
A pituitary hormone that regulates thyroid activity. Abnormal levels can affect metabolism, weight, energy, and mood.
- Free T4 (Thyroxine)
The active form of thyroid hormone available to tissues. Helps evaluate whether the thyroid is producing sufficient hormone to support healthy metabolism.
Liver Function
- Alanine Transaminase (ALT)
A liver enzyme that is one of the most sensitive markers for liver cell damage. Often raised in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which is common in patients carrying excess weight.
- Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST)
A liver and muscle enzyme. Elevated levels can indicate liver cell damage, fatty liver disease, or muscle injury.
- Gamma Glutamyl Transferase (GGT)
A liver and bile duct enzyme. Useful for detecting bile flow problems, alcohol-related liver strain, and fatty liver.
- Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP)
An enzyme found in the liver, bile ducts, and bone. Helps identify liver, gallbladder, or bone-related issues.
- Total Bilirubin
A waste product from red blood cell breakdown processed by the liver. Elevated levels can indicate liver strain or bile flow issues.
- Albumin
The main protein made by the liver. Reflects nutritional status, hydration, and liver function — all important during a weight-loss programme.
- Globulin
A group of proteins involved in immune function and transport. Helps detect liver disease, chronic inflammation, or protein imbalances.
- Total Protein
A combined measurement of albumin and globulin. Used to assess nutritional status, liver function, and fluid balance.
Checks liver health, protein status, and bile flow. Fatty liver is common in people carrying excess weight and should be monitored during treatment.
Kidney Function
- Creatinine
A waste product filtered by the kidneys. Raised levels can indicate reduced kidney function, which is important to monitor before and during GLP-1 treatment.
- Urea
A waste product from protein breakdown, filtered by the kidneys. Affected by hydration, diet, and kidney function.
- Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR)
A calculated measure of how well the kidneys are filtering blood. One of the most important indicators of overall kidney health.
- Sodium
An electrolyte critical for fluid balance, blood pressure, and nerve function. Can be affected by reduced appetite, vomiting, or dehydration during weight-loss treatment.
Evaluates how well the kidneys are filtering waste and maintaining electrolyte balance - important for GLP-1 treatment safety.
Pancreatic Markers
- Lipase
A pancreatic enzyme that digests fats. Raised levels can indicate pancreatic inflammation, which is a monitored side effect of GLP-1 medications such as Mounjaro and Wegovy.
- Amylase
A pancreatic and salivary enzyme. Used alongside lipase to detect pancreatic inflammation or irritation during GLP-1 treatment.
Monitors pancreatic health, which is routinely tracked in patients using GLP-1 medications such as Mounjaro® and Wegovy®.
In-Clinic Blood Testing At Longridge, Preston
If you’d rather leave everything to a qualified professional, our in-clinic blood testing service is the most comfortable and hands-off experience. Once you complete your order, we’ll contact you to arrange a convenient appointment time.
Your sample will be taken by a trained phlebotomist, making the process quick, smooth, and reassuring - especially if you’re nervous around blood or struggle with finger-prick tests.
We send off all samples the same day to the lab to be processed so results can be expected within 72 hours.
Why Use This Service:
Hands-off, professional experience
High-quality samples for complex tests
No risk of “not enough sample”
Support at every step
No posting or packaging required
Convinient appointment times
Taking Charge Of Your Own Health Has Never Been Easier
Worried about your wellbeing?
If you’re experiencing unexplained symptoms such as fatigue, weight loss, or other issues, a comprehensive blood test may be the key to discovering potential underlying health problems.
Need to monitor a health condition?
Blood tests offer essential insights into various aspects of your health, from detecting deficiencies to evaluating immune functions.
Enhancing Performance and Fitness?
Whether you’re training for a sport or keeping track of your fitness progress, a blood test serves as an excellent foundation for your performance improvement journey.
All Our Tests Include:
No GP Referral
Order directly - no waiting for appointments
Fast Results
Detailed analysis within 72 hours
Laboratory Commentary
Expert interpretation of your results included
Secure & Confidential
Discreet service and consultations
Frequently Asked Questions
- Qualified Pharmacists
- Flexible Appointments
- Top Customer Service
What is the difference between a home finger-prick test and a clinic appointment?
Both use exactly the same accredited UK laboratories. A home kit suits busy schedules and simpler tests, while a clinic appointment with our phlebotomist is better for comprehensive panels, larger samples, or anyone who would rather not take their own sample. If you are not sure which to choose, call us and we will point you to the right option.
Where is the clinic?
You will find us at 54 Berry Lane, Longridge, Preston PR3 3JP, with free parking on site. We see patients from Longridge, Preston, the Ribble Valley and across Lancashire.
Are weekend appointments available?
Yes. We are open 10am to 6pm on Saturdays, with blood test appointments available by arrangement, so you can fit your test around work and family.
Are same-day appointments available?
Often, yes. If you need a blood test today, call us on 01772 439054 and we will do our best to fit you in the same day.
What if my results need explaining?
Your results are reported against the laboratory’s reference ranges, so you can see which values sit outside the expected range. Where the laboratory provides written commentary it is included with your report. If anything is unclear or needs a follow-up, our pharmacists are happy to talk you through it.
How much do private blood tests cost in Preston?
Prices start at £39 for a single-marker test such as our Cholesterol/Lipid Profile and rise to £349 for the Allergy Complete 295-allergen panel. Most comprehensive health panels cost between £100 and £180. The price covers the laboratory analysis and your results report, and our pharmacists will talk you through anything that needs explaining at no extra charge.
What if I’m on the pill, coil or HRT?
Just tell us at booking. Hormonal contraception and HRT affect some results, so we note it on your order and take it into account when we talk your results through with you.
What can an AMH test tell me?
AMH is the single best blood marker of your ovarian reserve, a useful indicator if you’re planning for a family, considering egg freezing, or simply want to understand your fertility. It can be tested on any day of your cycle.
When in my cycle should I take a hormone test?
It depends on the test. AMH can be done on any day. Baseline hormones (FSH, LH, oestradiol) are usually taken on days 2 to 5. Progesterone is taken around day 21 (about 7 days before your next period is due). We’ll guide you on timing when you book.
When is the best time to take a testosterone test?
Ideally in the morning (before 11am), when testosterone is at its natural peak. We’ll guide you on timing when you book.
What’s the best test if I think my testosterone is low?
Testosterone Plus, which measures total and free testosterone plus SHBG and the Free Androgen Index. Total testosterone alone misses many men whose symptoms come from low free testosterone, so getting the complete picture matters.
Do I need an allergy test or intolerance test?
If your reactions are fast (hives, swelling, wheezing), the 295-allergen IgE panel is the right starting point. If they’re slower and gut-based (bloating, cramps, fatigue), a targeted intolerance or coeliac profile may suit you better. Not sure? Call us and we’ll guide you.
What does the 295-allergen panel test for?
Foods, pollens, animals, dust mites, moulds, insect venoms, drugs and contact allergens (all from a single blood sample). The full allergen list can be found on the product page.
How accurate are home finger-prick tests compared to clinic tests?
Our home finger-prick tests use the same accredited laboratories as our clinic tests. While clinic tests allow for more comprehensive panels, home tests are highly accurate for the parameters they measure.
Do I need a GP referral for a blood test?
No, you don’t need a GP referral. You can book directly with us for any blood test. We are a private clinic offering direct access to comprehensive blood testing.
How old do I have to be to have a blood test?
We will only draw blood from those aged 16 and above due to legal requirements.
How long does it take for the blood test results to come?
If you have used our clinic to complete a blood test, we send off all samples the same day to the lab to be processed. If you have used a home test kit, then once your sample has been sent off the lab will analyse your sample. Results are usually received within 72 hours.
How do I perform the home finger-prick test?
Your home blood test kit will contain easy-to-follow instructions on how to take your own finger blood sample. If you have any concerns or questions prior to using the kit, please contact our phlebotomists who will be happy to assist.
How do I prepare for a blood test?
There is no preparation required prior to taking any of the blood tests. Please simply remember to stay hydrated prior to your appointment. This is to help your veins dilate better to enable a quick and efficient blood sample to be taken and reduce the risks of feeling faint following your blood test.
Please inform the phlebotomist before your test if you are currently taking any blood thinning medication.
Should I fast before my blood test?
Fasting is not required for most blood tests. However, if your profile includes cholesterol tests and you’ve previously had high levels, consider fasting for 8 hours beforehand. While not essential, fasting can provide more accurate results.
Note: Fasting means abstaining from any food and drink, except for water.