Does a metabolic panel check cholesterol?

No. Cholesterol is measured in a separate lipid panel.

Lab test · Metabolic

Metabolic panel (BMP / CMP)

A metabolic panel checks glucose, kidney function, electrolytes and — in the comprehensive version — liver markers. Learn what's included and how to prepare.

Written by LON6EVITY Editorial Team · Last updated 2026-09-29

About LON6EVITY. A longevity and prevention platform that keeps your biomarkers, screenings and health history in one place, shows trends over time and prepares doctor-ready reports. How it works

What the test includes

A basic metabolic panel (BMP) usually includes glucose, calcium, sodium, potassium, bicarbonate, chloride, blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine. A comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP) adds albumin, total protein, bilirubin and the liver enzymes ALP, ALT and AST.

Why it's used

MedlinePlus describes the panels as a broad check of metabolism, kidney function, fluid and electrolyte balance, and (for CMP) liver health. They're common in routine check-ups.

How to prepare

You may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours, especially if glucose is being assessed.

Questions people commonly ask

Does a metabolic panel check cholesterol?: No. Cholesterol is measured in a separate lipid panel.

Related biomarkers

Related tests

Keep your health results in one place

What does this mean for your own health data? Log your results, follow trends over time and bring an organised summary to your next doctor's appointment.

Build your longevity profile See membership

Sources

Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP). MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP). MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.