Advanced lab testing
WHAT IS FUNCTIONAL LAB TESTING?
Functional lab testing, also known as functional medicine testing, involves assessing various biochemical, metabolic, and genetic markers to provide a comprehensive overview of a patient's health status. Unlike conventional lab tests that often focus on diagnosing diseases, functional lab testing aims to identify underlying imbalances and dysfunctions in the body's systems. This approach is holistic, emphasizing the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases by addressing the root causes rather than just symptoms.
Here are some common types of functional lab tests:
Nutritional and Metabolic Testing:
- Vitamin and Mineral Panels: Assess levels of essential vitamins and minerals to detect deficiencies.
- Amino Acid Profiles: Evaluate the balance of amino acids, which are critical for protein synthesis and other bodily functions.
- Fatty Acid Profiles: Measure essential fatty acids, which are important for brain function, inflammation regulation, and cell membrane health.
Hormone Testing:
- Adrenal Function Tests: Measure cortisol and DHEA levels to assess adrenal gland function and stress response.
- Thyroid Panels: Include tests for TSH, Free T3, Free T4, and thyroid antibodies to evaluate thyroid function comprehensively.
- Sex Hormone Panels: Assess levels of oestrogen, progesterone, testosterone, and other sex hormones to identify imbalances that may affect reproductive health, mood, and energy levels.
Gastrointestinal (GI) Testing:
- Comprehensive Stool Analysis: Evaluate digestion, absorption, microbiome balance, and presence of pathogens.
- Food Sensitivity Testing: Identify foods that may trigger immune responses and cause inflammation or other symptoms.
Detoxification Profiles:
- Heavy Metal Testing: Detect the presence of toxic metals like lead, mercury, and arsenic in the body.
- Liver Function Tests: Assess the liver's ability to detoxify and process toxins.
Genetic Testing:
- Nutrigenomic Testing: Analyse genetic variations that affect nutrient metabolism and risk for certain diseases.
- Pharmacogenomic Testing: Identify genetic factors that influence individual responses to medications.
Immune Function Testing:
- Cytokine Panels: Measure levels of cytokines to assess inflammation and immune system activity.
- Autoimmune Panels: Detect autoantibodies that indicate autoimmune diseases.
Cardiovascular Risk Panels:
- Advanced Lipid Panels: Provide detailed information about cholesterol particles, including size and density, to better assess cardiovascular risk.
- Inflammation Markers: Measure markers like C-reactive protein (CRP) and homocysteine to evaluate cardiovascular inflammation.
Benefits of Functional Lab Testing
- Personalized Treatment Plans: Tailored to the individual's unique biochemical and genetic makeup.
- Preventive Care: Identifies potential health issues before they develop into chronic diseases.
- Holistic Approach: Considers the interconnection of various body systems and their impact on overall health.
- Root Cause Analysis: Focuses on addressing the underlying causes of symptoms rather than just treating the symptoms.
How to Get Functional Lab Testing
Healthcare Providers: Registered Nutritional Therapists, Functional medicine practitioners, integrative medicine doctors, naturopaths, and some holistic health practitioners can order these tests.
Functional lab testing can be a valuable tool for anyone looking to optimize their health, prevent disease, and address chronic conditions through a comprehensive, individualized approach.
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