FUNCTIONAL TESTING

Functional testing focuses on the physiological function of the body as a marker for health by providing a snapshot of how various body systems are working and how they may be contributing to your body's symptomatic response.

It helps practitioners to identify deficiencies, imbalances, nutritional status, pathogens, parasites and genetic markers, any of which may be underlying health difficulties, preventing recovery or increasing the risk of disease.

Functional testing is really useful to get to the heart of an issue where all other obvious contributors/instigators have been investigated and ruled out. It therefore allows for a more targeted nutritional programme approach and faster, successful and cost effective results.

If appropriate, advice and guidance will be given on the feasibility of testing for you during your consultation. Any costs will be in addition to your consultation fee.

A test typically involves taking a breath, blood, saliva, urine or stool sample for laboratory analysis. Most samples can be taken in the comfort and privacy of your own home but some may require a blood draw from a nurse or phlebotomist. Analysis is performed at reputable laboratories in the UK, USA and Europe.

Private testing can be expensive but is of great value to informed clinical decisions. It will only be recommended when considered absolutely necessary to support progress with a clients' case. Prices vary according to the test. Clients receive a full report of the test results, interpretation and advice during their consultation.

Commonly used functional tests include:-

Stool analysis

Microbiology analysis of stool samples to identify the balance of 'good' vs 'bad' gut bacteria, yeast, parasites and pathogens such as H. Pylori. Useful for clients suffering from chronic digestive issues such as constipation, diarrhoea, pain, cramps, fatigue, bloating.

Food intolerance testing

Assessment of IgG antibody reactions to a wide range of food and drink ingredients, helping to identify trigger foods that cause the symptoms of intolerance such as digestive discomfort, fatigue, migraines, skin issues and low mood.

Thyroid function

Analysis of thyroid hormone production and metabolism. The disruption of which affects virtually every metabolic process in the body. Thyroid hormone underpins a broad spectrum of chronic disease and has significant effect on mood, energy levels, weight and sex drive.

Hormone analysis

Comprehensive female hormone analysis to identify imbalance.

Useful in establishing the root cause of issues such as PMS, infertility, menstrual irregularity, PCOS as well as menopause systems and systemic disorders.

Adrenal stress profile

Used to analyse daily circadian secretions of the stress hormones cortisol and DHEA. Imbalances of which underlie a whole host of medical conditions including anxiety, chronic inflammation, insomnia, depression, chronic fatigue syndrome, migraines, menstrual issues and infertility.

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Disease prevention

Measurement of blood homocysteine concentration. High homocysteine levels are associated with increased risk of heart disease, stroke, Alzheimers, dementia, infertility, declining memory and low mood.