What Albumin tells you
Liver enzyme and protein markers that reflect aspects of liver activity. They are interpreted together, and in context, by a clinician.
Which Honed panels include Albumin
Albumin is measured in the Essential Panel and Performance Panel. Every sample is collected at a pathology collection centre and processed at a NATA-accredited laboratory against RCPA reference ranges, with personalised plain-English commentary in your secure online report.
Why Albumin matters
Albumin is the primary protein synthesized by the liver and is the most abundant protein in blood plasma. It serves multiple roles: transport of fatty acids, hormones, and bilirubin; buffering pH; and maintaining oncotic pressure. Serum albumin is used clinically as a marker of liver synthetic function and nutritional status. In athletes, albumin may be monitored as part of assessing overall nutrition and recovery capacity, particularly after intense training or illness.
The range explained
Low levels
Low albumin (below 35 g/L) indicates reduced liver synthetic function, malnutrition, or protein deficiency. This can impair recovery and immune function.
Normal range
Reference range: 35–50 g/L. This represents adequate liver function and nutritional status.
High levels
Elevated albumin (above 50 g/L) is uncommon and may indicate dehydration or rare liver conditions.
What affects Albumin
- Training: Intense training increases protein turnover; adequate protein intake supports albumin synthesis.
- Nutrition: Adequate protein intake is essential for albumin synthesis. Severe underfueling impairs albumin levels.
- Sleep: Sleep supports hepatic protein synthesis. Poor sleep may impair albumin production.
- Stress: Chronic stress and illness can reduce albumin synthesis.
When to retest
Every 12 months as part of routine health screening.
Why athletes care
Athletes may monitor albumin as part of assessing nutritional status and liver function; low albumin in an athlete indicates inadequate protein intake or energy availability.
Related liver markers
FAQ
What does the Albumin blood test measure?
The main protein produced by the liver. It is one marker clinicians consider when reviewing liver-related results and general nutrition.
Which Honed Health panels include Albumin?
Albumin is included in the Essential and Performance panels.
What unit is Albumin measured in?
Albumin is reported in g/L, measured at NATA-accredited laboratories against RCPA reference ranges, with personalised plain-English commentary in your secure report.