Ep. 37 - Optimal vs. Reference Ranges: Why 'Normal' Isn't Always Health

Most lab reports label your results as "normal" — but does normal really mean healthy? In this episode of Health Talk: Your Partner in Health, Dr. Caitlin Prickett and Jeffery Runyon dive deep into the difference between reference ranges (what's typical in the general population) and optimal ranges (what's associated with peak health and disease prevention). We'll break down the science, explore examples from cholesterol to thyroid function, and explain why aiming for "average" could still leave you at risk. Whether you're trying to prevent chronic disease, optimize longevity, or simply understand your labs better, this conversation will change the way you think about your bloodwork.