"Why do you use functional labs in your practice?"
Although my intake paperwork is phenomenal and very helpful in giving targeted support, labs can also be an amazing way to find imbalances in the body, both relatively quickly and inexpensively. I use lab tests and “optimal lab values to reveal meaningful patterns indicating biochemical and functional dysfunction contributing to patient symptoms.” -Rupa Health. Labs can help to show us the underlying cause of symptoms you experience, while also helping us address imbalances that could down the road cause more problems for your body.
"Do you use the same labs for all of your clients?"
No! Not all of my clients are the same and not all of them have the same issues or needs. I try to tailor the labs I order to each client.
"So why are labs not include in the initial cost?"
First, the initial cost cover my time both with you and the time I spend researching, and creating a plan for you. Labs do cost extra, but I actually give my clients a HUGE discount on any labs I order.
"Who do you use for ordering labs?"
I partner with a group call Rupa Health. They have physicians who oversee all lab orders I create as well as all results that come in. I love Rupa because they make ordering easy and they also allow my clients to break lab fees in to zero interest payments. Some of the labsI order often are routine blood work, thyroid specific bloodwork, DUTCH test from Precision Analytical, GI Map from Diagnostic Solutions and more.
The labs I use most often:
- Blood Tests: This is often the lab test clients are most familiar with . If you have ever gone to your PCP and had a blood test completed, this is often the test that was run. The most commonly ordered blood tests are complete blood count, basic and comprehensive metabolic panels, thyroid function, and lipid panel blood tests, as well as some other inflammatory markers. The why for ordering a Blood Panel is the same as any Functional Lab Test- looking for imbalances that could both be causing your current symptoms and point us toward longer term dysfunction and disease. Want to learn more?
- DUTCH Test from Precision Analytical: This test is a dried urine analysis test. It includes information on hormone production, metabolism, and excretion, offering a more holistic view of a patient’s hormonal health. The DUTCH is helpful for clients who experience symptoms that point to hormonal imbalance or dysfunction such as: Menstrual cycle irregularities (PCOS), Menopause/Perimenopause, Fertility Issues, Adrenal Health or Stress Concerns, General Hormonal Imbalance (mood swings, fatigue, weigh gain or loss, depression, anxiety), Thyroid Imbalances, Sleep Imbalances. Want to read more about it?
- The GI-MAP Test by Diagnostic Solutions : So much of our health and longevity begins in the gut, so many of clients symptoms do as well. This test utilizes DNA-based technology to analyze the gut and the microbiota present there. The results of the GI-MAP gives valuable insight and information for people with gastrointestinal symptoms. The results can inform us to create a plan that restore balance through: diet changes, specific probiotic supplementation, and antimicrobial protocols. Want to learn more about this test?
- P88 Dietary Antigen Test by Precision Point: This is an at home test that looks at your body’s reaction to 88 of the most common foods found in the diet. This test can help identify and address food allergies and food sensitivities that could be impacting symptoms and health. Common symptoms linked to food reactions are: gas/bloating, reflux, headaches/migraines, inconsistent bowel movements, joint pain and inflammation, hives/rash/eczema, weight gain, fatigue, depression/anxiety, auto-immune conditions, decreased immune function. For clients, when those troublesome foods are removed, the often experience an astonishing difference in the symptoms they experience. Ready to learn more?
There are many more tests that we can order based on your specific needs. These are just the most common tests I use.