Functional Medicine Tests Can Give You Answers!
October 17, 2015
Functional medicine tests are laboratory assessments to help determine underlying issues in the body that may be contributing to health concerns. Naturopathic doctors, like myself, utilize these tests in conjunction with a comprehensive health history intake to determine core causes of health concerns. This information is then used to create a comprehensive natural treatment plan to help you achieve optimal health and feel better.
There are several types of functional medicine tests available to you. Below you will find a chart of laboratory tests that are considered for common health concerns. Please note that this chart does not mean that all of these tests would be necessary for the health concern listed. They are merely options that can be discussed during your initial consultation. After a comprehensive health history I am able to make more specific and individualized recommendations.
| HEALTH CONCERN | FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE LABORATORY TEST OPTIONS |
| Hormone related concerns | Hormone testing (saliva) Adrenal gland cortisol output (saliva) Intracellular micronutrient levels (blood) Estrogen metabolism (urine) |
| Fatigue | Thyroid panel (blood) Iron panel (blood) Intracellular micronutrient levels (blood) Adrenal gland cortisol output (saliva) |
| Insomnia | Intracellular micronutrient levels (blood) Adrenal gland cortisol output (saliva) Neurotransmitter metabolite levels (urine) Hormone testing (saliva) |
| Depression Anxiety |
Intracellular micronutrient levels (blood) Adrenal gland cortisol output (saliva) Neurotransmitter metabolite levels (urine) |
| Elevated blood pressure Elevated cholesterol Cardiovascular health |
Cardio-Metabolic panel (blood) Intracellular micronutrient levels (blood) |
| Diarrhea Constipation |
Food sensitivity testing (blood) Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) test (breath) GI Effects comprehensive stool analysis (stool) Gluten sensitivity/celiac screening (blood and saliva) |
| Autoimmune conditions | Food sensitivity testing (blood) GI Effects comprehensive stool analysis (stool) Gluten sensitivity/celiac screening (blood and saliva) Autoimmune antibody testing to self-tissue (blood) |
As you can see, there are several options for functional medicine tests. It is best to work with a naturopathic doctor to determine the best tests for your individual health concerns. Instead of masking symptoms, consider treating the core cause. It is the best way to achieve optimal health and feel your best. Please contact me for more information or for a complimentary 10 minute consultation to learn how my services may be beneficial for your individual needs.