Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP): What It Is, Procedure & Results

What is a basic metabolic panel (BMP)?

A basic metabolic panel (BMP) is a blood test that measures eight different substances in your blood. The panel provides helpful information about your body’s chemical balance and metabolism (how your body transforms the food you eat into energy).

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Healthcare providers often use a BMP as a go-to blood test and to help diagnose, screen for or monitor certain health conditions.

What does a basic metabolic panel (BMP) include?

A basic metabolic panel measures the following substances in your blood:

• Glucose: Glucose (blood sugar) is your body’s main source of energy. Elevated blood glucose (hyperglycemia) is often a sign of diabetes.
• Calcium: Calcium is one of the most important and common minerals in your body. Your body stores most of it in your bones, but you also need calcium in your blood. Blood calcium is essential for keeping your nerves, muscles and heart healthy.
• BUN (blood urea nitrogen): This is a measurement of urea, which is a waste product that your kidneys help remove from your blood.
• Creatinine: This is a waste product that comes from digesting dietary protein and the normal breakdown of muscle tissue. Your kidneys filter it and remove it from your blood.

A BMP also measures the following four electrolytes:

• Sodium: Most of your sodium comes from the food you eat. It’s critical in helping your cells maintain the right balance of fluid. Your kidneys help regulate your body’s sodium levels.
• Potassium: Potassium helps your nerves and muscles function. It has other roles, as well.
• Bicarbonate: Bicarbonate indicates the amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) in your blood. It helps maintain a healthy acid-base (pH) balance.
• Chloride: Chloride helps your cells maintain the right balance of fluid.

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Why would I need a BMP?

Healthcare providers often order a basic metabolic panel to get a broad assessment of your overall physical health. With eight individual measurements, it can check several body functions, including:

• Your kidney function and health.
• Your blood sugar level.
• The acid and base (pH) balance in your blood.
• Your fluid and electrolyte balance.

A BMP can provide helpful information in many different situations, including:

• If you’re receiving care in an emergency room.
• If you have symptoms related to kidney and/or metabolism issues.
• If you have a general symptom, like fatigue or vomiting.
• To monitor certain chronic conditions you may have, like high blood pressure or kidney disease.
• If you had a prior test result that was abnormal to see if your levels have changed or remain abnormal.
• If you’re starting a new medication that can affect your kidney function.