Thyroid Panel

Assesses thyroid function — a key regulator of metabolism, energy, and hormonal balance.

Thyroid Panel

Table of contents

Basic data

The thyroid panel evaluates hormones that regulate metabolism, body temperature, energy production, and cognitive function. It typically includes TSH, Free T3, Free T4, and sometimes thyroid antibodies. Abnormal levels may lead to fatigue, weight fluctuations, mood changes, or increased cardiovascular risk.

This test is especially relevant when symptoms of hypo- or hyperthyroidism are present — or as part of a routine metabolic and hormonal health evaluation within a longevity protocol.

Category: Lab blood panel

Level: Intermediate

Usefulness: High

Level

Intermediate

Thyroid function is a cornerstone of metabolic regulation. Assessing thyroid markers becomes particularly important for users who have already optimized foundational habits — such as sleep, nutrition, and physical activity — yet experience persistent fatigue, cold intolerance, or brain fog. The panel is most useful for intermediate-level users aiming to understand metabolic factors affecting healthspan and vitality.

Usefulness

High

The thyroid panel provides insight into how efficiently the body produces, converts, and responds to thyroid hormones, which play a central role in metabolism, energy regulation, and mood stability.
Early detection of thyroid disorders

Helps identify subclinical or overt thyroid dysfunction (hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism) before it progresses, allowing for timely lifestyle or medical interventions.

Supports metabolic and hormonal balance

Informs personalized approaches — such as adjusting iodine intake, optimizing selenium levels, or managing stress — to enhance thyroid health and energy regulation.

How it works

The test is performed via a standard blood draw to evaluate hormone levels linked to thyroid function.
Blood collection

A small venous blood sample is drawn, typically in the morning while fasting.

Laboratory analysis

The sample is analyzed for TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone), Free T3, Free T4, and optionally antibodies such as anti-TPO or anti-thyroglobulin.

Measures

The panel includes both stimulating and active thyroid hormones, as well as autoimmune markers indicating thyroid inflammation or dysfunction.
Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH)

Indicates how strongly the pituitary gland signals the thyroid to produce hormones — commonly used as a first-line screening marker.

Free T3 and Free T4

Represent the bioactive thyroid hormones available to cells, offering a more accurate measure of thyroid performance than total hormone levels.

Thyroid antibodies (e.g., anti-TPO)

Help detect autoimmune thyroid diseases such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or Graves’ disease.

Reliability

Thyroid hormone testing is highly standardized and reliable, although results may be influenced by time of day, illness, stress, or biotin supplementation.
High laboratory precision

Blood-based hormone testing demonstrates excellent repeatability and cross-laboratory consistency.

Potential confounders

Results can be affected by acute illness, pregnancy, or supplements containing biotin, so it’s important to inform the lab of all medications and supplements being used.

Limitations

Despite its strong diagnostic value, the thyroid panel should always be interpreted in the context of symptoms and overall health.
Limited functional context

The test may not fully reflect how efficiently thyroid hormones act at the cellular level.

Marker variability

Levels of TSH, T3, and T4 can fluctuate depending on stress, diet, medication, and circadian rhythm.

Frequency

Recommended frequency

Once a year as part of preventive screening, or more frequently if symptoms of thyroid imbalance or metabolic dysfunction are present.

Cost

Typical cost

Typically ranges from €25 to €50 (or 120–250 PLN), depending on the lab and scope of analysis.

Availability

Availability

Available in most diagnostic laboratories and functional medicine clinics worldwide.

Preparation

How to prepare

Perform the test in the morning while fasting, avoid biotin supplements for at least 48 hours prior, and inform the lab about all medications or supplements being taken.

Interpretation

Results should always be interpreted in clinical context — temporary deviations do not necessarily indicate chronic thyroid disease.
Normal values

Indicate proper thyroid function and adequate hormone production. TSH levels between 0.4–4.0 mIU/L and stable Free T3/T4 are considered within the normal range for most adults.

Abnormal results

Elevated TSH with low T4 suggests hypothyroidism, while low TSH and high T3/T4 suggest hyperthyroidism. These findings require further diagnostic evaluation and medical consultation.

Creatine supplementation

Taking creatine supplements may temporarily raise serum creatinine levels, which does not necessarily indicate impaired kidney or thyroid function. In such cases, results should be interpreted considering lifestyle and supplementation context.

Alternatives

Reverse T3 (rT3) test

Can help assess thyroid hormone conversion efficiency in individuals with chronic stress or inflammation.

Iodine and selenium testing

Complementary assessments to evaluate whether the body has adequate micronutrients for proper thyroid hormone synthesis.

FAQ

Should the test be done while fasting?

Yes, fasting is recommended, ideally in the morning.

Can I take the test while on thyroid medication?

Yes, but inform the lab about your medication type and dosage, as it may affect interpretation.

Can stress or poor sleep affect results?

Yes, chronic stress and sleep deprivation can temporarily alter TSH and T3 levels, so it’s best to interpret results in the context of overall lifestyle and recovery.