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Hormones

IGF-BP3

IGF-BP3 regulates the availability of IGF-1, a key growth factor for tissue repair and training adaptation. For active individuals, monitoring IGF-BP3 helps paint a complete picture of your body's recovery and growth mechanisms.

Doctor's Assessment Included

Reference Ranges

No established reference range

There is no international reference preparation for IGF-BP3, so assays differ by roughly 24% and reference values are not transferable between laboratories. The Netherlands has no national reference interval and no external quality control for it, and the LUMC declines to publish a table. The value is also strongly age- and sex-dependent.

Unit: nmol/l

Reference ranges may vary between laboratories. When you order a test, a BIG-registered doctor assesses your personal results in context. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.

What It Measures

This test measures the concentration of IGF-BP3 in your blood. IGF-BP3 is the most abundant IGF binding protein and regulates the availability and activity of IGF-1 by transporting it through the bloodstream and controlling its release to tissues.

Why It Matters

Understanding IGF-BP3 alongside IGF-1 can help active individuals optimize recovery protocols and nutrition strategies. The balance between these markers may influence how effectively your body repairs and adapts to training stress.

When to Test

Testing may be recommended alongside IGF-1 when evaluating suspected growth hormone disorders, monitoring pituitary function, or assessing nutritional status. Your healthcare provider can advise on appropriate timing.

Symptoms

Low Levels

Some people with low IGF-BP3 may experience symptoms similar to growth hormone deficiency, such as fatigue, reduced muscle mass, or poor recovery. Low levels may also be associated with liver or nutritional issues.

High Levels

Elevated IGF-BP3 levels are less commonly associated with specific symptoms but may indicate excessive growth hormone production or other conditions. Consult your healthcare provider for interpretation of results.

Lifestyle Tips

Maintaining balanced nutrition, adequate protein intake, and regular physical activity may support healthy IGF-BP3 levels. Good sleep hygiene is also important, as growth hormone is primarily released during deep sleep.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is IGF-BP3 tested alongside IGF-1?
IGF-BP3 carries most of the IGF-1 in your blood. Testing both together gives a more complete view of growth hormone activity and helps your healthcare provider interpret results more accurately.
What can cause low IGF-BP3 levels?
Low levels may be associated with growth hormone deficiency, liver disease, malnutrition, or certain chronic conditions. Your healthcare provider can determine the underlying cause.
Can I improve my IGF-BP3 levels naturally?
Balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and adequate sleep may support healthy IGF-BP3 production. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.

Tests with related values

These panels measure values from the same category as this marker.

Whoop

A 44-biomarker comprehensive health panel inspired by WHOOP Advanced Labs — a deep look at metabolism, cardiovascular risk, hormones, liver, kidney and inflammation.

SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin) TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) LDL Cholesterol Cortisol DHEA-S Estradiol (E2) Free Testosterone FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) LH (Luteinizing Hormone) Total Testosterone Bicarbonate Calcium Chloride Ferritin Iron (Serum) Magnesium Potassium Sodium Transferrin CRP (C-Reactive Protein) Homocysteine Glucose (Fasting) HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin) ApoB (Apolipoprotein B) HDL Cholesterol Omega-3 Index Total Cholesterol Albumin HOMA-IR ALP (Alkaline Phosphatase) AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase) Bilirubin (Total) Total Protein Urea (BUN) Creatinine Vitamin D (25-OH) eGFR (Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate) Insulin (Fasting) Leukocyte Differential Transferrin Saturation Lipoprotein(a) Triglycerides Basic Blood Count
€499,-
Health Checkups

InsideTracker

A 36-biomarker performance and longevity panel inspired by InsideTracker Ultimate — covering heart, hormones, metabolism, inflammation, recovery and iron status.

SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin) TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) LDL Cholesterol GGT (Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase) Cortisol DHEA-S Estradiol (E2) Free Testosterone Total Testosterone Folate (Folic Acid) Vitamin B12 Calcium Ferritin Iron (Serum) Magnesium Magnesium (Intracellular) Potassium Progesterone Sodium Transferrin CRP (C-Reactive Protein) Glucose (Fasting) HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin) ApoB (Apolipoprotein B) HDL Cholesterol Total Cholesterol Albumin AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase) Vitamin D (25-OH) Insulin (Fasting) Leukocyte Differential Creatine Kinase (CK) Transferrin Saturation Triglycerides Basic Blood Count
€399,-

IGF-BP3

€59,-