Which Functional Test is Right for You?
Are you struggling with persistent skin, gut, hormone, or overall health issues? Feeling frustrated because you can’t seem to find the root cause of your problems? You’re not alone. Many people face similar challenges, but there’s a way forward: functional testing. By understanding your body’s unique biochemistry, functional tests can provide invaluable insights to guide your path to better health.
In this blog post, I’ll explore different types of functional tests – stool tests, blood tests, urine tests, and genetic tests – and how they can help you on your journey to wellness.
How I Can Help You
Choosing the right test can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate this alone. As a nutritional therapist, I’m here to help you select the most appropriate tests based on your unique symptoms and health goals. Once we have the results, I’ll interpret them for you and integrate the findings into a customised nutritional therapy plan.
Authenticity and Clear Communication
My approach is grounded in authenticity, diligence, and clear communication. I aim to empower you with knowledge and insights about your health, making your health accessible. We will work together to uncover the root causes of your issues and create a clear, actionable plan to help you achieve better health.
Understanding Functional Tests
Functional tests are specialised tests that go beyond traditional medical diagnostics. They aim to uncover underlying imbalances in the body that might be contributing to your symptoms. As a nutritional therapist, I use these tests to provide a comprehensive view of your health and create a personalised plan to address your specific needs.
Key testing companies that I have access to:
Regenerus Labs
Nordic Labs
Genova Diagnostics
Invivo Healthcare
Lifecode Gx
Medichecks
Cyrex Labs
Stool Tests
What is a Stool Test?
A stool test analyses your gut microbiome – the community of bacteria, viruses, and fungi living in your digestive tract. These tests can detect imbalances, infections, inflammation, and how well your digestive system is functioning.
Stool tests typically involve collecting a small sample of your faeces, which is then analysed in a laboratory. The analysis can identify the presence of harmful bacteria, parasites, and fungi, as well as beneficial bacteria that are crucial for a healthy gut. It can also measure markers of inflammation, digestion, and absorption, providing a comprehensive picture of your gut health.
Who Can Benefit from a Stool Test?
If you suffer from chronic digestive issues such as bloating, constipation, diarrhoea, or abdominal pain, a stool test can be extremely beneficial. It’s also helpful for skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis, as these can be linked to gut health, via the gut-skin axis.
Blood Tests
What is a Blood Test?
Blood tests are used to measure various markers in your blood, including hormones, vitamins, minerals, and other vital compounds. These tests provide a snapshot of your current health status.
Blood tests involve drawing a small amount of blood, usually from a vein in your arm, which is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. The results can reveal a wealth of information about your health, such as your blood sugar levels, cholesterol, inflammation markers, and more. Hormonal assessments can include thyroid function, adrenal stress, and sex hormones, while nutritional assessments can identify deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals.
Who Can Benefit from a Blood Test?
Blood tests are versatile and can be used to investigate a wide range of issues, from hormonal imbalances (such as thyroid or sex hormones) to nutritional deficiencies (like iron or vitamin D). They are crucial for anyone experiencing unexplained fatigue, mood swings, or other persistent symptoms.
Urine Tests
What is a Urine Test?
Urine tests assess metabolic function and nutrient excretion. They can provide insights into how your body is processing and eliminating various compounds, and can highlight issues like detoxification capacity or neurotransmitter imbalances.
Urine tests typically involve collecting a sample of your urine, either as a single sample or over a 24-hour period. The sample is then analysed for various markers, including metabolic byproducts, hormone metabolites, and nutrient levels. This type of test can offer insights into your body's detoxification processes, oxidative stress, and neurotransmitter levels, which are crucial for mental and emotional well-being.
Who Can Benefit from a Urine Test?
Urine tests are particularly useful for identifying metabolic issues and are often recommended for those with chronic fatigue, depression, anxiety, hormonal or mood disorders.
Genetic Tests
What is a Genetic Test?
Genetic tests analyse your DNA to uncover genetic variations that may affect your health. They can provide information on predispositions to certain conditions, how your body processes nutrients, and how you might respond to different types of interventions.
Genetic testing involves collecting a sample of your saliva or a swab from the inside of your cheek. This sample is then analysed to identify variations in your genes that can influence various aspects of your health. These tests can reveal how you metabolise different nutrients and drugs. Understanding your genetic makeup can help tailor your nutrition and lifestyle for optimal health.
Who Can Benefit from a Genetic Test?
Genetic testing is ideal for those who want to take a proactive approach to their health. It’s especially useful if you have a family history of certain conditions, or if you’ve tried various treatments without success.
Book a Call with Me
Does functional testing sound like something that will help you? Book a call with me to discuss which functional test is right for you and how I can support you in interpreting the results and creating a personalised health plan. Let’s work together to uncover the root cause of your health issues and set you on the path to wellness.
