functional testing
A functional approach to your health
Naturopaths and integrative health practitioners may suggest using specialised methods to examine root cause of concerns and confirm treatment approach. The specialised tests measure how the body’s biological and biochemical processes are working as a whole and can measure pathways, enzymes, nutrients, genes, hormones, amino acids, neurotransmitters, gut bacteria and parasites. Rather than isolating a single marker, functional testing is much more specialised in that it looks at how a whole organ or process in the body is functioning and how that may be influencing other systems and the bodies entire health. They assist holistic practitioners to identify the underlying causes of a health condition as well as provide tools for the prevention of disease.
Why do functional testing?
Functional testing is one of the best ways to confirm what’s going on, rather than guessing and treating based on case-taking alone, and can give the answer that is often overlooked or missing. Many clients report a huge feeling of relief once they have the solid evidence, especially if you have spent time searching or being passed around health professionals.
Most popular specialised tests
- Food allergy tests of over 96+ foods
- Sex hormones (e.g. estrogen, progesterone, testosterone) and their pathways- we can identify not only if a hormone is high or low but why and what pathway is malfunctioning and affecting metabolism of them. This can be tracked across the cycle.
- Adrenal hormones, their daily rhythm and metabolism
- Thyroid hormones (TSH, T4, T3, rT3) and thyroid antibodies
- Stool analysis to investigate gut bacteria, fungi, parasites and digestive ability
- SIBO breath test to identify small intestinal bacterial overgrowth
- Genetic tests such as methylation genes, celiac gene, non-celiac gluten sensitivity, mould susceptibility
- Neurotransmitters- serotonin, GABA, dopamine, noradrenaline, adrenaline, glutamate, histamine
- Liver detoxification pathways
- Heavy metal levels
How does it work?
We will discuss with you in your initial consultation which tests are most useful to investigate in your particular case. You are then sent a test kit directly from the lab to your home whereby the instructions and all the materials to do the test and send it back to the lab are included. The test may be urine collection, spot pin prick blood test, saliva swab, still analysis, or you may have to go to a collection centre. The results are emailed to your practitioner and discussed with you at your next appointment.
How much do the tests cost?
They vary greatly depending on the test. Usually clients spend about $100-$300 depending on their situation. Unfortunately, functional testing is not covered by Medicare as they are specialised tests. If you consider the amount of money you could spend going to different specialists (for just the appointment) and trying various treatments- identifying the cause will save you a lot of money and time (and your health) long term.
N.B
Please note testing is optional and experienced naturopaths are fairly accurate in determining root cause of concern without the need for testing. Functional testing is best suited for individuals who have suffered symptoms long-term with no relief or answers; and for those who are motivated by a measured approach to their health and wellbeing.
