What is Functional
Medicine Testing?
Functioning Medicine
Functional medicine testing includes a range of specialised assessments that go beyond the standard diagnostic screenings typically conducted by conventional doctors. These tests can involve blood, stool, urine, or saliva samples, which you can usually collect in the comfort of your own home. They are valuable for evaluating specific areas of health, such as metabolic function, gut health, hormone levels, nutritional deficiencies, detoxification pathways, and inflammation that may contribute to suboptimal health or chronic conditions.
Why test?
Functional testing can be incredibly helpful in identifying the root causes of symptoms. I always offer these tests when I believe they will enhance your treatment. These assessments provide objective data that reflect your internal health, making it tangible and real.
Having this information allows you to track your progress, which can be incredibly empowering and motivating.
Book a free 20-minute Wellness Check, and I will explain which of my functional testing packages would be most suitable for you.
Areas of functional medicine testing
used in the clinic
Functional medicine testing includes a range of specialised assessments that go beyond the standard diagnostic screenings typically conducted by conventional doctors. These tests can involve blood, stool, urine, or saliva samples, which you can usually collect in the comfort of your own home. They are valuable for evaluating specific areas of health, such as metabolic function, gut health, hormone levels, nutritional deficiencies, detoxification pathways, and inflammation that may contribute to suboptimal health or chronic conditions.
Comprehensive Gut
Health Testing
The gut plays a crucial role in many bodily functions, including digestion, nutrient absorption, immune function, and mental health (often referred to as the "gut-brain axis").
GI EcologiX Comprehensive Stool Analysis - assesses gut flora (microbiome), digestive function, and the presence of pathogens such as bacteria, yeast, or parasites. Additionally, leaky gut tests look for signs of intestinal permeability, often called "leaky gut." This condition can allow harmful substances to enter the bloodstream, triggering inflammation and potentially contributing to a wide range of issues, including autoimmune conditions, allergies, and mental health problems.
Mitochondrial Function
Mitochondria are the powerhouses of the cell; dysfunction in these can lead to fatigue, low energy, and various chronic conditions.
Organic Acids Testing (OAT)
Examines byproducts of metabolism, helping to identify issues with energy production or detoxification pathways.
Hormonal Imbalance
Hormones play a vital role in regulating many aspects of health, including mood, metabolism, immune function, and energy levels.
DUTCH Complete Test
The Dried Urine Test is a reliable method for assessing hormone levels, with dried samples showing equal accuracy to liquid samples. It is the first comprehensive urine test that evaluates the following:
- Cortisol metabolites
- Oestrogen metabolites
- Basic hormones
- Androgen metabolites
- Melatonin
- Free cortisol patterns
Food Sensitivity and Allergy Testing
Food sensitivities or intolerances can lead to various symptoms, including bloating, fatigue, skin issues, joint pain, and headaches.
Click here to book a free 20 minute Wellness Check to discover how functional testing could benefit you on your individual health journey.
Health Check
Medicheck Advanced Well Woman/Man Blood Test Includes 47 biomarkers that assess thyroid function, hormone levels, vitamins and minerals, and cholesterol.
Mitochondrial Function
Mitochondria are the powerhouses of the cell; dysfunction in these can lead to fatigue, low energy, and various chronic conditions.
Organic Acids Testing (OAT)
Examines byproducts of metabolism, helping to identify issues with energy production or detoxification pathways.
Toxicity and Environmental Exposure
Heavy Metal Testing
Identifies toxic build-up of metals that may disrupt metabolic processes or cause neurological symptoms.
Environmental Toxin Testing - measures levels of various environmental toxins.