Functional Testing in Nutritional Therapy
Functional testing is a crucial component of Nutritional Therapy, providing valuable insights into an individual’s unique physiological, biochemical and genetic markers. These tests help Nutritional Therapists pinpoint imbalances, identify root causes of health issues and design highly personalized nutritional and lifestyle plans.
Common functional tests that I can assist you with
Personalised approach: Nutritional Therapy acknowledges that each person is unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to nutrition. It tailors dietary recommendations to individual needs.
Comprehensive Blood Chemistry Analysis: This test provides a detailed overview of various blood parameters, including markers related to inflammation, nutrient status, and organ function. It helps in identifying imbalances such as nutrient deficiencies, insulin resistance, and inflammation.
- Gut Health Assessment: Stool testing is used to evaluate the composition of the gut microbiome, presence of pathogens and digestive function. It is vital for assessing conditions like intestinal permeability (leaky gut), dysbiosis and food sensitivities.
- Hormone Testing: Hormone panels, including assessments of cortisol, sex hormones and thyroid function, can help uncover imbalances related to hormonal disorders, adrenal fatigue and thyroid dysfunction.
- Food Sensitivity Testing: These tests identify specific foods that may trigger immune responses in the body. Discovering and eliminating problem foods can alleviate symptoms in conditions like IBS, migraines and autoimmune diseases.
- Genetic Testing: Genetic testing can reveal how an individual’s genetic makeup affects their response to various nutrients and dietary factors. This information can be used to create highly personalized nutrition plans.
- Micronutrient Analysis: These tests evaluate micronutrient levels in the body, uncovering deficiencies or imbalances that might contribute to a range of health issues.
- Metabolic Testing: Tests like metabolic rate assessments and glucose tolerance tests are employed to assess metabolic health, insulin sensitivity and the risk of developing metabolic syndrome or Type 2 diabetes.
- Inflammatory Marker Assessment: Evaluating inflammatory markers such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukins can help Nutritional Therapists identify chronic inflammation and its underlying causes.
- Oxidative Stress Assessment: Tests like lipid peroxides and antioxidant levels measure oxidative stress in the body, which is linked to various chronic diseases.
- Detoxification Capacity: Assessing liver function and detoxification capacity can help Nutritional Therapists develop strategies to support the body’s natural detox processes.
These functional tests allow me to gather objective data about your health status and tailor my recommendations for you accordingly. The results guide the development of a highly individualized Nutritional Therapy plan, which may include dietary modifications, targeted supplementation and lifestyle adjustments. I might recommend functional testing to assess any nutritional imbalances and inform personalised diet and lifestyle recommendations to support wellbeing. Phenotype assessment may be used to inform Nutritional Therapy recommendations.
I work together with:
- Genova Diagnostics
- Team Gene
- Invivo Healthcare
- Regenerus Laboratories
- Functional DX
- Nordic Laboratories
- Brunel Health
- Mineral Check