What It Measures
This test measures the total concentration of all proteins in the blood serum, primarily albumin (which maintains fluid balance and transports substances) and globulins (which include antibodies and enzymes). The ratio between these two protein types (A/G ratio) provides additional diagnostic information.
Total protein measures the combined amount of albumin and globulin proteins in the blood. It is a key indicator of nutritional status, liver and kidney function, and immune system health. Abnormal levels can signal a wide range of conditions from chronic disease to dehydration.
Current Value
What High Means
Elevated total protein (hyperproteinemia) can indicate chronic inflammation, chronic infections (HIV, hepatitis B/C), multiple myeloma or other plasma cell disorders, dehydration (falsely elevated due to hemoconcentration), autoimmune conditions like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, and chronic liver disease such as cirrhosis. Persistently elevated levels warrant investigation for underlying malignancy or chronic inflammatory conditions.
Possible Symptoms
Often asymptomatic; may present with fatigue, bone pain (if myeloma), recurrent infections, unexplained weight loss, swollen lymph nodes, joint pain (if autoimmune), and signs of dehydration such as dark urine and dry mouth
What Low Means
Low total protein (hypoproteinemia) can indicate malnutrition or inadequate protein intake, malabsorption syndromes (celiac disease, Crohn's disease, IBD), liver disease with impaired protein synthesis, nephrotic syndrome (protein loss through kidneys), severe burns or hemorrhage, overhydration, and congestive heart failure. Low levels compromise immune function, wound healing, and fluid balance.
Possible Symptoms
Edema (swelling in legs, feet, abdomen due to low albumin), fatigue, muscle wasting, poor wound healing, frequent infections, brittle nails and hair, brain fog, unintentional weight loss, and chronic diarrhea if due to malabsorption
Risk Factors
Liver disease (cirrhosis, hepatitis), kidney disease (nephrotic syndrome), multiple myeloma, chronic infections, autoimmune disorders, malnutrition, malabsorption syndromes, inflammatory bowel disease, severe burns, congestive heart failure, prolonged immobilization
Actionable Advice
Supplements
- •Whey protein
- •Collagen peptides
- •Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs)
- •Digestive enzymes
- •Betaine HCl
- •L-glutamine
- •Zinc
- •Vitamin B6
- •Iron (if deficient)
Diet & Lifestyle
- •Consume adequate high-quality protein (0.7–1.0 g per pound of lean body mass daily from sources like eggs, fish, poultry, legumes)
- •Address any underlying digestive issues that may impair protein absorption
- •Stay adequately hydrated but avoid overhydration
- •Limit alcohol consumption to protect liver function
- •Engage in regular resistance training to support healthy protein metabolism
- •Get regular check-ups to monitor liver and kidney function
- •If vegetarian/vegan, combine complementary protein sources to ensure complete amino acid profiles
- •Manage chronic inflammatory conditions with anti-inflammatory diet and stress reduction
Ask AI
Ask questions about your Total Protein results, trends, and what you can do to optimize.
Historical Trend
Resources & Studies
All Readings
| Date | Value | Change |
|---|---|---|
| 2025-08-25 | 7.1 g/dL | -0.4 |
| 2025-06-27 | 7.5 g/dL | — |