Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG)
Men's/women's healthA glycoprotein that regulates hormone bioavailability by binding to sex hormones in circulation.
SHBG levels influence the amount of active hormones available to tissues and can reflect metabolic and endocrine health.
Why this matters
SHBG levels reveal how much active sex hormone is available and can indicate hormonal imbalances. Low SHBG may be linked to insulin resistance, obesity, or metabolic issues, while high SHBG can reduce the availability of sex hormones, affecting reproductive and metabolic health. Maintaining a healthy weight, balanced diet, and regular exercise can help support normal SHBG levels and overall hormone balance.
How this connects to other biomarkers
- Low SHBG with elevated HOMA-Index, Fasting Insulin, and central obesity is a hallmark of insulin resistance and increases biologically active androgen (high Free Androgen Index (FAI)) — common in PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome).
- High SHBG can lower active testosterone despite normal Testosteron, total, contributing to symptoms of low testosterone (use Testosteron, free to clarify).
- Elevated SHBG can be seen in overactive thyroid (suppressed TSH), liver disease, and oral estrogen therapy.
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