New Health Platform Transforms Blood Test Results into Wellness Plans

Feeling unwell without a clear reason is a common experience for many people today. A new health platform, Marko, aims to address this issue by providing personalized wellness plans based on blood test results. Founded by clinical nutritionist Vinka Wong and co-founder Sheree Hart in New Zealand, Marko seeks to bridge the gap between clinical diagnostics and everyday health.

Many individuals report feelings of fatigue, low mood, and a general sense of being overwhelmed, which can often go unexplained. Vinka Wong emphasizes the importance of addressing these feelings to enhance overall wellness. She states, “Optimal health and wellness is deeply personal. It’s how we feel when we’re truly thriving.”

Marko distinguishes itself from traditional blood test interpretations by analyzing over 30 health markers through the lens of optimal function rather than merely flagging diseases. The platform creates tailored action plans that include guidance on nutrition, lifestyle, and supplements, aiming to support the body’s natural balance before potential health issues arise.

Revolutionizing Blood Test Analysis

Traditional blood tests typically employ broad reference ranges to diagnose disease or dysfunction. In contrast, Marko uses research-based ranges that reflect what it means to feel well. According to Wong, “Marko isn’t about catching what others miss; it’s about viewing your health through a new lens. The focus is on optimization, not diagnosis.”

Take thyroid health as an example. Standard tests often only check for TSH levels, which might indicate normal function. Marko assesses TSH alongside free T4 and thyroid antibodies, employing tighter ranges that more accurately reflect thyroid performance. Wong recounts the story of a woman in her forties who had been told her thyroid was normal despite experiencing fatigue and mood changes. By using Marko’s approach, it became evident that her thyroid was not functioning optimally. With personalized support, she implemented changes that led to significant improvements in her energy levels within weeks.

Wong has long been involved in the diagnostic side of wellness, focusing on aspects such as genetics and blood chemistry. She began integrating blood work into her clinic years ago, realizing the untapped potential of blood analysis for overall health. “Our blood tells such a powerful story, and yet it’s often under-utilized when it comes to feeling good, not just identifying illness,” she notes.

Sheree Hart’s suggestion to build a platform to scale Wong’s approach led to the development of Marko. Collaborating with healthcare professionals, including general practitioners and nutritionists, they created a system that translates complex lab data into actionable, user-friendly guidance.

Addressing Nutritional Imbalances

Marko highlights various trends in wellness, revealing that many users in New Zealand often have imbalances in essential nutrients such as B12, iron, folate, and vitamin D. These nutrients are critical for maintaining energy, mood, and immune function. Wong explains that these deficiencies frequently result not from a lack of food but from being undernourished in vital nutrients.

She attributes these imbalances to factors like stress, poor gut health, and diets that prioritize convenience over nutrient density. “We’re consuming plenty, but not necessarily absorbing or utilizing what our bodies need to thrive,” Wong explains.

Users of the platform can focus on various health areas, including mental health, inflammation, metabolism, and gut health. Elevated blood sugars, signs of fatty liver, and abnormal cholesterol levels have emerged as common concerns even among those who consider themselves healthy.

Once individuals access their own data, they often feel empowered to make changes. “Marko gives them clear direction on where to focus and what steps to take,” Wong says. The platform’s mission centers on empowering individuals to take accountability for their health rather than relying solely on traditional healthcare systems.

Marko does not provide diagnoses and encourages users to seek medical attention when necessary. However, it offers one-on-one consultations for those seeking additional guidance. Wong envisions Marko as 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 adds. As the platform continues to grow, it aims to foster a healthier society by providing individuals with actionable knowledge, ultimately reducing unnecessary appointments and allowing healthcare resources to be utilized where they are most needed.