Functional lab testing is a different approach to care than conventional lab testing you may experience when you go to annual check ups or when concerned about a problem. Functional labs are unique because they evaluates how well or (not well) your body is functioning using a spectrum of health rather than to diagnosis a disease. This is why many individuals still feel unwell but ”labs are normal” when seeking care conventionally, sound familiar? Functional Lab testing gives us a much deeper and well rounded picture to your individual functional health. Ultimately allowing us to address causes not just symptoms.
Though testing will give us valuable direction and a systematic approach it is not required. Most insurances will not cover functional lab testing because it is so beyond ”standard of care” and they refuse. Labs can range from $100-$2,000, depending on needs.
Below is a sample of different types of test available:
Comprehensive lab Functional Panel
Think of this panel the ”big kahuna” of conventional medical testing panel. It may be called basic here but it is anything but. This panel which was specifically developed by Totum Healths doctor to have a full assessment of “basic” health. It includes but not limited to CBC, CMP, Iron panel, Thyroid panel, Inflammation panel, Vitamin D, Blood sugar panel and Lipid Panel.
Stool Testing
Stool testing is just what it sounds like. It takes samples of stool to assesses biomarkers of inflammation, intestinal lining integrity, ability for digestion and absorption, gut microbiome breakdown (beneficial to pathogenic species), and presence of parasites or worms. Often used when there is a concern with the gut such as IBS, constipation, diarrhea, stomach pains, and bloating but also if one suffers from headaches, acne, hives, signs of nutritional deficiencies, modd disorders, ADHD and the list goes on.
Hormonal Testing
Hormonal testing is mostly collected through the urine, saliva, or blood. It is able to provide a well round view of how your hormones are working and breaking down. With this testing we not only look at your sex hormones but could also assess hormones related to the hypothylamic-pituitary-adrenal axis such as cortisol. This test is best used for fertility issues, irregular menses, abnormal spotting, PCOS, and the list goes on.
Organic Acid Testing
The Organic Acid Test provides information about metabolic health within the body. Many of us are deficient in certain enzymes or need more support of minerals and vitamins because a pathway is slower than others which cause toxic overload which subsequently causes symptoms or disease states. This test provides an extremely comprehensive idea of how the body is processing neurotransmitters, toxins, vitamin and mineral use. It is recommended for individuals suffering from behavior disorders, hyperactivity, movement disorders, fatigue and immune function.
Breath Testing
The breath test evaluates off gassing of bacteria in the wrong location of the gastrointestinal tract. It is used to assess a disorder called small bacteria overgrowth (SIBO) or even Large bacterial overgrowth (LIBO). Irritable bowel syndrome and the associated symptoms of excessive bloating, flatulence, belching, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain associated with bowel movements are often misdiagnosed or not diagnosed in conventional care settings.
Food Sensitivity
Food sensitivity testing is in hot debate right now on its efficacy due to the accessibility of testing IgG markers how labs collect samples and process. I do still believe in this test but at the right moment it a treatment plan, from the right company, and with the right panel. Here at Totum Health we use it to assess intestinal integrity along with sensitivity to foods, additives such as gums or coloring, pesticides, and more.
*labs are an additional fee at Totum Health on top of a regular visit.