Lab Test Instructions
As a functional medicine practice, we oftentimes see patients that just feel “not quite right” – where there is no one dominant symptom that can point us in the right direction. Examples can range from chronic bloating, unexplained headaches or migraines, chronic fatigue, insomnia, to any number of vague symptoms.
Beyond exploring possible lifestyle factors to identify the root cause of chronic dis-ease or wellness challenges, we frequently use advanced functional medicine lab testing that provide valuable information about health at the cellular level.
The test results help guide our treatment recommendations in major ways – allowing us to craft an approach unique to your situation, genetics, and biochemistry.
GI-MAP Test
For digestive health we run a complete digestive profile. In this profile biomarkers are used to see if there is hidden inflammation or increased immune burden and where this might be coming from. We can also look at digestive capacity through enzyme levels, bile salts, and other factors. We also examine absorptive markers to make sure that people are actually absorbing the nutrients that come from their foods. One of the most important data this test provides is the difference in ratios of beneficial bacteria to non-beneficial bacteria in the gut.
Decades of research show that there are certain ratios of bacteria that are present in people who have different conditions like Alzheimer’s disease or cancer or have a difficult time losing weight. When we know what those ratios are, then we can create a unique action plan to then reverse those imbalances and restore function to those tissues, and prevent future diseases from occurring.
Food Sensitivities Test
Food sensitivities are important especially subsequently to a complete digestive profile, if we found a particular marker that was high due to inflammation caused by food sensitivities. We can look at food sensitivities in even more detail with a complete peptide profile, which is even more sensitive than a general food sensitivity test, to see if somebody might have leaky gut syndrome or might have autoimmune markers to a particular food.
We can look at everything from spices to different classifications of foods. This really helps us to see what types of antibodies are reacting to foods. This can help us determine if you will need to remove this long term or short term, or if you may be able to reintroduce it later after a period of just removing it from the body.
Detox Genomic Testing
Detox genomic testing is helpful because we can actually see based on your unique genetic profile where you might have deficiencies or imbalances in your body’s ability to break down certain toxins that can then build up in the body and lead to certain cancers. So we can take a look at where you might be processing things more slowly or more quickly. Or you might not be able to process things at all, or unable to make the particular antioxidants required to neutralize those toxins.
This testing gives us a larger picture into how the body is able to break down and process toxins so that we can create a unique plan to let people know what they need to avoid what particular supplements they may need to take more of, in order to offset the specific genetic abnormality that they have.
We also do micronutrient testing, which is important especially if you’ve been going through chemotherapy or you’ve had digestive issues for a long time. There might be an absorption issue with certain nutrients. As you might have a lower digestive capacity, we look at all of the different antioxidants and minerals and vitamins and fats in the body, to give us a clear idea of your nutritional level is in general.
DUTCH Test
With Dutch hormone testing, there are different types of hormones and the levels that we can examine. Beyond hormone levels themselves, we are looking at the breakdown products by the body of those hormones. Depending on different metabolites that are present from those hormones, or ratios of metabolites, we can really get a picture of where the body is with hormone balance and what might have been happening prior to a particular diagnosis.
After we can then recommend specific supplements and dietary recommendations, that can then rebalance hormones. This test can also help people who’ve had estrogen sensitive cancers and we’re really looking to see how we can prevent recurrence in the future.
We also look at the liver’s capacity to break down estrogen into its subsequent metabolites. Because we know that certain metabolites are higher in women who have a propensity for breast cancer and other estrogen sensitive cancers.
Take the First Step on Your
Journey With Me
Perhaps you have questions you’d like to ask about what it’s like to become a practice member. We are happy to answer any questions you have to determine if Elemental Health is right for you.
