Functional Diagnostic Nutrition ®(FDN) does not diagnose or treat any specific disease. Instead of chasing symptoms, we use functional lab work to seek the underlying cause and identify hidden stressors and malfunctions. Symptoms are the usually the last thing to appear in the disease process, usually ‘function’ has been lost for some time. Symptoms are the physical manifestation of a deeper imbalance. We investigate to find malfunctions overlooked by the medical model.
Functional lab tests can identify malfunctions and imbalances that need to be corrected in order to build health. Malfunctions within the hormonal, immune, digestion, and detoxification systems can manifest in a variety of symptoms such as:
- allergies
- digestive issues, bloating, constipation/diarrhea
- hormone imbalances
- poor stamina and energy throughout the day
- irritability and fatigue
- headaches and brain fog
- bad skin
- joint pain
- ‘unexplained’ health problems
Functional lab tests are invaluable at uncovering what’s really going on. The information and insight gained from these tests will give you a clear picture and greater understanding of what is going on with you. Once you can see the territory, its much easier to chart your course to health! When you understand how your body works and why it responds to certain things, you are empowered and able to take control of your health and your life!
The most common lab tests we use are:
BH205-Adrenal Stress Profile
This profile is used to evaluate the adrenal glands and hormonal balance. Collection is made of 4 salivary samples at specific times of the day to reveal cortisol rhythm and hormonal balance including DHEA, estradiol, estriol, progesterone, testosterone and melatonin.
BH101-Metabolic Assessment Profile
Gives us insight into your body’s ability to breakdown protein, digestion capabilities, lipid peroxidation/free radical damage in the body, and liver function.
BH401H-Pathogen Screen with H. Pylori
A comprehensive test using a stool culture to check for parasites, bacterial overgrowth, and fungi, including a check for H. Pylori.
MRT- Mediator Release Test
Checks for 150 food sensitivities. Food sensitivities are very common today and can play a role in a wide variety of health problems. Because food sensitivities have a delayed onset, unlike food allergies, they can be hard to figure out on your own. Testing for them is a valuable way to find out if one of your favorite foods is sabotaging your health efforts.
HTMA- Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis
A hair sample is used to test for 21 nutritive and toxic minerals. This test is used to determine your unique blueprint of mineral imbalances and toxic load. It is an excellent assessment to help you understand your body’s mineral and nutritional needs.
Many other tests are available for looking deeper into unresolved issues investigating: Intestinal permeability, SIBO, Organic acids testing, Neurotransmitter balance, Micronutrient levels, Gluten sensitivity, and Chemical/Environmental sensitivities.