BIOCHECK UP

Did you know that cardiovascular disease, diabetes and premature ageing are among the so-called “lifestyle diseases”, and that some of the associated risks can be reduced through targeted changes in lifestyle and diet?

BIOCHECK UP is an early screening programme designed to identify risk factors and imbalances associated with lifestyle-related diseases.

Since 2004, BIOCHECK UP has aimed to:

  • Identify risk factors at an early stage

  • Review lifestyle and dietary habits

  • Provide personalized recommendations to help maintain optimal health

  • Support targeted lifestyle and nutritional changes

When clinically indicated, BIOCHECK UP profile analyses may be covered by basic health insurance.*

*Except IBS-Smart, which is only partially reimbursed.

Listen to your heart

BIOCHECK UP offers different profiles to assess cardiovascular risk, including the evaluation of lipid profiles, inflammation markers and fatty acids.

These profiles may be particularly relevant in the following situations:

  • Stress

  • Overweight or obesity

  • Starting or monitoring physical activity

  • Family history of cardiovascular disease

  • Unbalanced diet

  • High cholesterol levels

  • Insufficient intake of Omega-3 fatty acids

Lipids and inflammation

This basic profile evaluates conventional lipid-related risk factors as well as possible low-grade inflammation using high-sensitivity CRP.

Fatty acid profile

The fatty acid profile analyses, among other parameters, lipoprotein phospholipids and provides an assessment of different types of fatty acids.

These include Omega-3 fatty acids, saturated fatty acids and trans fatty acids.

The analysis therefore provides additional information on nutritional balance and certain factors associated with cardiovascular risk.

Advanced cardiovascular markers

This profile complements the previous assessments and provides a more in-depth analysis of cardiovascular risk.

It may be particularly useful in people with a family history of cardiovascular disease or specific risk factors and can support a more personalized clinical assessment.

Understanding fatty acids

The fats we consume perform a number of essential functions in the body. They provide energy, support brain function and contribute to many biological processes.

Some fatty acids are beneficial, while others can have unfavorable effects when consumed in excess. An imbalance in fat intake may have consequences for cardiovascular health.

Atherogenic fatty acids

Certain fatty acids, particularly some saturated fatty acids such as myristic acid and palmitic acid, may contribute to the formation of atherosclerotic plaques when present at high levels.

These plaques consist of fatty deposits that build up in the walls of blood vessels.

These fatty acids may also be associated with higher cholesterol levels and an increased cardiovascular risk.

Certain trans fatty acids are also considered relevant, including trans-elaidic acid, which may be produced during the partial hydrogenation of oils.

Protective fatty acids

Polyunsaturated fatty acids, particularly Omega-3 fatty acids, play an important role in cardiovascular health.

Two parameters can be considered when assessing fatty acid balance:

Omega-3 Index

The Omega-3 Index provides information about levels of specific Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA.

Omega-6 to Omega-3 ratio

The balance between Omega-6 and Omega-3 fatty acids is also important. A very high intake of Omega-6 compared with Omega-3 can affect this balance.

What can you do?

To support a balanced diet:

  • Choose oily fish, particularly small cold-water fish, regularly

  • Prefer white meat to red meat

  • Choose plant-based oils rather than solid fats

  • Extra virgin olive oil is one suitable option

  • Keep your diet as varied as possible

  • Prefer fresh foods over highly processed products, which are often richer in saturated and trans fats

Discover our BIOCHECK UP profiles

The BIOCHECK UP range has continuously expanded to address a variety of current health and prevention topics.

It includes profiles focused on:

  • Cardiovascular health

  • Fatty acids

  • Nutritional balance

  • Vegetarian nutrition

  • Gut health

  • Other areas related to lifestyle and prevention

Discover the full BIOCHECK UP range at www.biocheckup.ch.

Contact

For further information:

Email: biocheck@unilabs.com