Dr. J. E. Williams Explains Importance of Blood Testing – Editor’s Note: We spoke with Dr. J. E. Williams, a functional medicine clinician, noted author and expert on anti-aging, blood analysis, viral infections and immune-boosting methods. He created The Complete Blood Test Blueprint Program and he’s also the author of Viral Immunity. Dr. Williams can be reached at 941-955-6220. Learn more on his website.
Why is blood testing important and what are some of the most common tests?
Blood testing is an objective way of finding out what’s going on inside your body. It’s the single most important way to figure out what to eat, what supplements to take, and if your lifestyle is creating the metabolic and biochemical results you need to be healthy and help you live longer.
How is your approach to blood testing different and what does it entail?
The basic approach and scope of testing is the same for most physicians although my practice focuses more on prevention, optimal health, and healthy aging. I’ve researched blood testing methods extensively to establish the ideal range for optimum health. For example, if your vitamin D, 25-hydroxy level is below 30 ng/mL you’re medically vitamin D deficient. But research shows that if your levels are higher, your risk for cardiovascular and other diseases is reduced. As a result, I recommend my patients aim for between 75-100.
Can anyone order their own blood test, or do laboratories require a physician’s prescription?
Recent laws were passed allowing anyone to get blood tests without a doctor’s order. However, health insurance only covers tests when there is a medical necessity as ordered by a physician. The easiest way to order your own tests is through an online service like Life Extension or PersonaLabs.
Is it feasible for a layman to analyze their own blood test results from online sources?
It requires some reading and study, like my Blood Test Blueprint, but a lay person can learn how to read their own test, at least in a basic way.
What are some of the best whole foods and supplements for enhancing a person’s overall health and resistance to heart disease and cancer?
I’m strong on polyphenols from green tea, blueberries, and red wine. I recommend that my patients take a polyphenol-enhanced multivitamin and mineral daily.
Where are you originally from and what brought you to the Gulf Coast area?
I lived in the San Diego area for 40 years but had family in Sarasota since 1945, and always enjoyed my visits. An opportunity to teach at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine and NOVA Southeastern University pulled me to Florida. The Gulf Coast lifestyle kept me here.
