Optimizing Health: The Functional Approach to Lab Testing

As a functional health practitioner, I approach lab testing and results quite differently from traditional doctors. Typically, when you receive lab work like a blood test, your results are flagged as either in range (green) or out of range (red). Sometimes, you might see an "H" for high, an "L" for low, or simply nothing if it falls within the range. However, these ranges are often based on the general population, which unfortunately includes many ill, diseased, and overall unwell individuals. So, even if you're experiencing uncomfortable symptoms, your results might not fall outside the range that would grab a traditional doctor's attention. Doctors often rely on a few markers to diagnose illnesses, prescribing medication to manage symptoms without addressing underlying causes. If your results are within range, they may simply dismiss your concerns, stating that you're healthy and advising you to return only if symptoms worsen. While doctors play a crucial role, many people are looking for more.

When working with a functional health practitioner, the approach to ranges is markedly different. We evaluate results against much narrower, optimal ranges that signify how the body functions at its best. Rather than focusing solely on individual markers, we examine patterns, red flags, and opportunities for healing. Although we may not diagnose specific illnesses, our aim is to delve deep, identify root causes, and help you address them to alleviate symptoms. We're less concerned with chasing symptoms and more focused on using them, along with lifestyle factors, medical history, and lab results, to paint a comprehensive picture of your health.

When you feel you've established a solid foundation of health (refer to the Feb 13 post), it may be time to consider functional lab testing. There are various options available, depending on accessibility, affordability, and your commitment level. Bloodwork is often a straightforward starting point, easily ordered by your primary care physician, although they may not conduct comprehensive tests. However, it's essential to bring these results to a functional practitioner to ensure a root cause approach rather than a temporary fix. Blood work can provide insights into nutrient deficiencies, infections, liver/kidney stress, gut dysbiosis, and more.

Certain practitioners provide additional tests such as the GI MAP, which I've found to be incredibly beneficial and informative. The GI MAP offers comprehensive insights into the condition of your gut, revealing details about parasites, bacteria levels, fungi, inflammation, immune function, and more. It's worth noting that while issues like parasites, bacteria, or fungi in the gut can contribute to health problems, they can also exist throughout the body. Nonetheless, because our gut is frequently exposed to external factors such as food and other consumables, it serves as an excellent starting point for investigation.

The DUTCH test offers valuable insights into various aspects of your body's functioning, spanning from sex hormones to cortisol patterns. While it may not always uncover root causes, it can shed light on the need for specific adrenal support, the fluctuation of hormones over time (especially with multiple tests), hormone processing within your body, identification of estrogen dominance, and many other factors.

Food sensitivity testing can be a topic of debate. I'm not referring to severe allergies like peanuts, bees, or shellfish, but rather to foods that trigger your immune system to release mediators in response. Mediators are the immune system's way of dealing with something it does not like, when it comes to common foods this immune response is less than ideal. While I frequently conduct these tests in my practice, it's not because I believe they always pinpoint the root cause. However, in some cases where an individual has celiac or Hashimoto's gluten may be the root cause. Food sensitivities often contribute to inflammation and overall metabolic disruption in the body. Eliminating these trigger foods can provide immediate relief while we address underlying issues. I typically recommend removing them for no more than 90 days, as prolonged avoidance may lead to nutrient deficiencies and limit dietary diversity. The aim is to remove, rebuild, and then reintroduce these foods strategically.

There are numerous other tests that functional practitioners may recommend, and some primary care physicians may be open to ordering them. The key is to conduct thorough research and advocate for yourself. Our goal is to ensure your body functions optimally, as symptoms may be common but are not normal.

With support,
Isabella