Functional Lab Testing
Functional lab tests help identify the root causes of your health challenges - offering a more targeted and efficient path to healing.
Modern diagnostic testing has evolved significantly in recent years. Many of the tests commonly used by naturopaths, nutritionists, and functional medicine practitioners are not routinely available through the NHS. These functional tests can help streamline the consultation and treatment process by providing highly specific insights. This means we can often reduce the trial-and-error stage of care, offering personalised support and faster results.
Depending on your needs, we may investigate:
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Food intolerances or allergies
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Hormone imbalances
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Nutrient deficiencies
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Toxic exposures (e.g. heavy metals, mold, or environmental chemicals)
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Fungal, parasitic, or bacterial infections
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Digestive function and gut microbiome balance
Most test kits are conveniently sent to your home and involve simple sample collection methods, such as saliva, urine, or finger-prick blood samples. These can be returned to the lab using prepaid packaging. A few tests may require a visit to a local phlebotomist for a blood draw.
Please note: lab test fees are charged separately by the test provider and are not included in the consultation fee.
Below is a list of some of the most frequently used tests in my practice (this list is not exhaustive):
Comprehensive Stool Profile Provides valuable insight into digestive function, leaky gut, intestinal inflammation, parasites and the intestinal microbiome. From £200 to £495, depending on options.
SIBO test (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth) A part of an upper fermenting gut, this is a key factor in many health issues. Breath testing is a unique way of determining if you have too many bacteria growing in your small intestine. £150
Comprehensive Food Intolerance test This measures antibodies to common foods and beverages. £280
Homocysteine test This test is emerging as being more predictive than cholesterol testing in assessing heart disease and stroke risk. If methylation (a key metabolic process in the body) is blocked or impaired, homocysteine builds up. It can also be indicative of issues with gut health, brain health and B vitamin status. £68
Thyroid hormone panel It is important to assess the levels of multiple thyroid hormones in order to get a clear picture of the mechanisms of any imbalance in this system. £89
Adrenal stress profile Measures cortisol levels at intervals throughout the day to determine if the adrenals are out of balance and to what extent. £120
Status of various vitamins, minerals and toxins in the body Various tests available.
Various genetic tests We can check inherent susceptibilities in various systems such as:
Nervous system
Detoxification
Methylation - a biochemical pathway important for detoxification, mood, cardiovascular health, and energy production.
Organic Acids Test Very useful for determining for a range of metabolic markers - including neurotransmitter balance, yeast overgrowth, toxic mold exposure, status of various vitamins and more £300
Hormone panels Assist in determining the causes of hormone abnormalities and may be relevant for cases of PMS, menopause, PCOS, fertility, weight gain, fatigue, reduced libido, sleep problems, and mood disorders. Various tests available including the DUTCH test.