Optimal Ranges
Clinical (NHS) Range
35-50 g/L
g/L
Performance-Optimised Range
42-48 g/L
g/L
The clinical range defines what is considered medically “normal” — broad enough to cover 95% of the population. The performance range reflects where research and clinical experience suggest most people feel and function at their best.
Why It Matters
Why Albumin matters for performance
Low albumin reflects two distinct things: reduced liver synthetic capacity, or systemic inflammation pulling protein into tissues. Either way, albumin tracks ageing closely — in the PhenoAge algorithm a 1 g/L drop adds roughly one biological year. Sustained levels above 45 g/L are associated with longer healthspan, better surgical outcomes, and lower all-cause mortality. Most healthy adults sit in the 40-50 g/L range; values below 38 g/L warrant investigation.
Symptoms
Signs your levels may be off
Low / Deficiency
- Persistent ankle or eyelid oedema
- Slow wound healing
- Muscle loss disproportionate to diet
- Fatigue and frequent infections
- Frothy urine (if from kidney loss)
High / Excess
- Usually indicates dehydration, not true elevation
- May appear during diuretic use
Dietary Sources
Foods that support Albumin levels
Supplementation
Evidence-based supplementation
Albumin itself is not supplemented; it is synthesised by the liver from dietary amino acids. Target 1.2-1.6 g of high-quality protein per kg of body weight daily, with leucine-rich sources spread across meals. Address inflammation and gut health if levels stay low despite adequate intake. Liver-supportive nutrients (choline, B vitamins, NAC) can support synthesis where liver capacity is the limiter.
Research
Key study
An epigenetic biomarker of aging for lifespan and healthspan
Levine ME, Lu AT, Quach A, et al.
Aging (Albany NY) (2018)
DOI: 10.18632/aging.101414Related Biomarkers
Related Guides
Explore Albumin in depth
Test your Albumin levels
Albumin is included in the Helvy 50+ biomarker panel. Get your results in 5 days with a personalised protocol.
Order Your TestThis content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Your data suggests areas for optimisation, but any concerns should be discussed with a qualified healthcare professional. If your results flag values outside safe ranges, we recommend consulting your GP.