Transforming Wellness: How Blood Tests Can Enhance Health

Feeling unwell without a clear reason is a common complaint in today’s society. Clinical nutritionist Vinka Wong highlights that sensations of fatigue, low mood, and lack of vitality are increasingly prevalent, often going undiagnosed. Wong emphasizes that these feelings are where discussions about true wellness should begin.

To address this issue, Wong, alongside co-founder Sheree Hart, launched Marko, a health tech platform based in New Zealand. The platform aims to connect clinical diagnostics with everyday well-being. It transforms blood test results from accredited laboratories into personalized action plans that include tailored nutrition, lifestyle recommendations, and supplement guidance. The goal is to support individuals in achieving a natural balance before potential health issues escalate into serious illnesses.

Unlike conventional blood tests that typically assess broad ‘normal’ ranges, Marko evaluates over 30 markers through the lens of optimal health. This approach focuses on what it means to feel good rather than merely avoiding illness. “Marko isn’t about catching what others miss; it’s about viewing your health through a new lens,” Wong explains. “The focus is on optimization, not diagnosis.”

Understanding nuances in health is crucial. For instance, a traditional thyroid test usually assesses only the thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and may declare it normal. However, Marko takes a more comprehensive approach by analyzing TSH, free T4, and thyroid antibodies with tighter ranges that accurately reflect thyroid function.

Wong shares a case study of a client in her forties who had been told her thyroid levels were normal, despite experiencing fatigue and mood fluctuations. By employing Marko’s optimization perspective, it became evident that her thyroid was underperforming. With personalized guidance, she implemented targeted changes and reported significant improvements in her energy levels within weeks.

Wong’s fascination with diagnostic wellness stems from her interest in genetics, hormones, and blood chemistry. She began integrating blood analysis into her clinic years ago and soon realized its potential to provide deeper insights into well-being. “Our blood tells such a powerful story, yet it’s often underutilized when it comes to feeling good rather than just identifying illness,” she notes.

Following a suggestion from her then-business coach, Wong decided to create a platform that could scale her approach. With contributions from general practitioners, nutritionists, and naturopaths, Wong and her team developed a system that simplifies complex lab data into actionable, user-friendly guidance.

Marko identifies the right foods, lifestyle changes, and supplements tailored to each individual. Wong acknowledges the overwhelming amount of health information available online, which can lead to self-diagnosis and random supplement use that may not yield effective results. “A one-size-fits-all approach rarely works,” she asserts.

The platform also sheds light on broader health trends among New Zealanders. Common deficiencies include B12, iron, folate, and vitamin D, which are crucial for energy, mood, and immune function. Wong attributes these deficiencies not to a lack of food, but to undernourishment in essential nutrients. She links these imbalances to stress, poor gut health, and dietary choices that prioritize convenience over nutrient density.

Users can select specific health areas to focus on, including mental health, inflammation, metabolism, and gut health. Among these, metabolic health emerges as a significant concern, with elevated blood sugar levels, signs of fatty liver, and abnormal cholesterol markers frequently appearing, even in those who consider themselves healthy.

Wong notes that when individuals see their own health data, they are often motivated to make positive changes. “Marko provides clear direction on where to focus and what steps to take,” she states. The platform’s mission revolves around empowering users to take charge of their health. Wong believes that a healthier society begins with individuals being accountable for their well-being rather than relying solely on healthcare systems. By offering clear, actionable insights, Marko aims to reduce unnecessary medical appointments, allowing healthcare resources to be directed where they are genuinely needed.

While Marko does not provide diagnoses, it encourages users to seek medical care when necessary. The platform offers one-on-one consultations for those seeking further assistance. Wong envisions this initiative as a part of a broader, collaborative health ecosystem. “Our goal is to empower as many people as possible to take control of their health and feel remarkable doing it,” she concludes.