New Health Platform Transforms Blood Tests into Wellness Strategies

Feeling fatigued or experiencing a lack of vitality? A new health platform called Marko, founded by clinical nutritionist Vinka Wong and co-founder Sheree Hart, aims to provide insights into these common complaints through blood analysis. The platform transforms standard blood test results into personalized wellness action plans, focusing on optimal health rather than just the absence of illness.

Many individuals report feeling “flat,” overwhelmed, or simply not their best, yet traditional healthcare often struggles to identify the root causes. Wong emphasizes the need for a shift in how we approach wellness: “Optimal health and wellness is deeply personal. It’s how we feel when we’re truly thriving,” she states. Marko bridges the gap between clinical diagnostics and everyday wellbeing by analyzing over 30 blood markers, offering tailored guidance that includes nutrition, lifestyle changes, and supplements.

Revolutionizing Blood Test Analysis

Unlike conventional blood tests that use broad definitions of normality, Marko uses narrower, research-based ranges to assess bodily functions. For instance, a standard thyroid test might only evaluate TSH levels, which can overlook critical aspects of thyroid health. Marko’s methodology assesses TSH alongside free T4 and thyroid antibodies, providing a clearer picture of thyroid function.

Wong recounts a case of a woman in her forties who had long been told her thyroid was functioning normally, despite experiencing fatigue and mood swings. “By viewing her results through the lens of optimisation, it became clear her thyroid wasn’t operating at its best. With personalized support, she made targeted changes and noticed real improvements in her energy and wellbeing within weeks,” Wong explains.

This innovative approach is grounded in the belief that blood can tell a powerful story about an individual’s health. Wong has integrated blood analysis into her practice for years, realizing its potential to uncover overlooked health issues. The idea for Marko emerged when Hart suggested creating a platform to disseminate this vital information more broadly.

Addressing Nutritional Imbalances

Marko’s analysis has highlighted common nutritional deficiencies among New Zealanders, particularly in B12, iron, folate, and vitamin D. These nutrients are essential for maintaining energy, mood, and immune function. Surprisingly, many individuals are not lacking in food but are undernourished in vital nutrients due to lifestyle factors, including stress and diets that prioritize convenience over nutrient density.

Wong notes, “We’re consuming plenty, but not necessarily absorbing or utilising what our bodies actually need to thrive.” The platform allows users to focus on specific health areas, such as mental health, metabolism, and inflammation, proving particularly relevant in today’s fast-paced world.

Many users report elevated blood sugar levels, signs of fatty liver, and cholesterol issues, even among those who consider themselves relatively healthy. With Marko’s data-driven insights, users are encouraged to take proactive steps toward improving their health.

“Marko gives them clear direction on where to focus and what steps to take,” Wong remarks. This empowerment is central to the platform’s mission. “A healthier society begins with individuals taking accountability for their own wellbeing, rather than relying solely on the system.”

While Marko does not provide diagnoses, it encourages users to consult medical professionals when necessary. The platform also offers one-on-one consultations for those seeking further guidance, aiming to be a collaborative element in a wider health ecosystem.

Ultimately, Wong’s vision is to help individuals take control of their health, enabling them to feel remarkable and informed. By providing actionable knowledge and insights, Marko seeks to reduce unnecessary appointments and optimize healthcare resources, paving the way for a more proactive approach to health and wellness.