Basic Health Checkup: cholesterol and Vitamin D blood test

Cholesterol and Vitamin D are among the most commonly requested health markers in the Netherlands. Yet many people put off getting tested because visiting a GP takes time and effort.

With this health checkup, you can take the initiative yourself. In one blood draw, you get your cholesterol levels, blood count, and Vitamin D status checked at one of 750+ certified locations. A straightforward preventive check without waiting lists.

Whether you are checking your blood values for the first time or keeping track of your health periodically, this panel offers a practical starting point.

This test may be relevant for people who:

• Want to check their cholesterol levels, for example if cardiovascular disease runs in the family
• Want to know if they are getting enough Vitamin D, especially during autumn and winter
• Are looking for a first step toward a healthier lifestyle backed by concrete blood values
• Have not had blood work done in a while and want a clear starting point
• Prefer to take charge of their own health without waiting for a GP appointment
• Work indoors regularly and want to check whether their Vitamin D level is sufficient

This panel includes the following markers:

• Complete Blood Count (CBC): measures red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Provides insight into overall blood health.
• HDL Cholesterol: sometimes referred to as "good cholesterol". May play a role in transporting cholesterol away from the arteries.
• LDL Cholesterol: sometimes referred to as "less favourable cholesterol". Elevated levels may be associated with increased cardiovascular risk.
• VLDL Cholesterol: a type of lipoprotein that carries triglycerides through the bloodstream.
• Triglycerides: a type of fat in the blood. Levels can be influenced by diet, exercise, and the amount of saturated fat in your diet.
• Vitamin D (25-OH): the primary circulating form of Vitamin D, measured in nmol/L. Plays a role in calcium and phosphate absorption and maintaining strong bones.

The blood count can provide information about anaemia, immune markers, and platelet levels. The lipid markers together offer a view of your cholesterol balance. Total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, and triglycerides are assessed as a group.

Elevated cholesterol may sometimes be associated with increased cardiovascular risk, especially in combination with other factors such as smoking or high blood pressure. A healthy lifestyle can contribute to maintaining a favourable cholesterol balance.

The Vitamin D result shows whether the amount of Vitamin D in your blood is sufficient. Low Vitamin D is common in the Netherlands, particularly among people with darker skin or those who get limited sunlight exposure. Low levels may affect bone health and immune function.

A blood sample is drawn at a certified collection point. There are over 750 locations across the Netherlands. After placing your order, you choose a location and time that works for you.

The appointment typically takes around 10 to 15 minutes. A trained phlebotomist performs the blood draw. You choose when and where.

Many people choose this test as part of a periodic health check. It may also be useful in specific situations:

• You want to check your cholesterol or Vitamin D levels for the first time
• You are curious about your cholesterol balance after changes in diet or exercise
• You want to check your Vitamin D status heading into autumn or winter
• You want a preventive blood test without visiting a GP
• You want baseline values to compare with future tests
• You want to understand the impact of your lifestyle on your cholesterol and Vitamin D levels

Each marker is shown with your measured value and a reference range. For lipid markers, the balance between HDL, LDL, and triglycerides is assessed together. A single value outside the reference range does not necessarily indicate a problem.

Your Vitamin D level is measured in nmol/L. Values below a certain threshold may suggest a need for further investigation. Values above the reference range are less common but also worth discussing.

Every blood test result includes a professional assessment from a BIG-registered doctor. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.

Fasting for 8 to 12 hours before your appointment is required for accurate lipid results. Water is allowed during the fasting period. It is recommended to schedule your blood draw in the morning.

Your results are typically available within a few working days in your personal dashboard. The report includes your measured values, reference ranges, and an assessment from a BIG-registered doctor.

If you have questions about your values, consider discussing them with your GP. Want to test additional markers beyond cholesterol and Vitamin D? Explore our full range or build your own custom test.