Lab Test Instructions
As a functional medicine practice, we oftentimes see patients that just feel “not quite right” – where there is no one dominant symptom that can point us in the right direction. Examples can range from chronic bloating, unexplained headaches or migraines, chronic fatigue, insomnia, to any number of vague symptoms.
Beyond exploring possible lifestyle factors to identify the root cause of chronic dis-ease or wellness challenges, we frequently use advanced functional medicine lab testing that provide valuable information about health at the cellular level.
The test results help guide our treatment recommendations in major ways – allowing us to craft an approach unique to your situation, genetics, and biochemistry.
GI-MAP Test
The FDA-approved GI-MAP test by Diagnostic Solutions Laboratory was designed to detect intestinal microbes that may be disturbing normal microbial balance or contributing to illness. The test is also an important indicator of digestion, absorption, inflammation, and immune function.
Organic Acid Test
Organic acids are metabolic intermediates produced in pathways of central energy production, detoxification, neurotransmitter breakdown, and intestinal microbial activity. Accumulation of specific organic acids in urine often signals a metabolic inhibition or block. This abnormality may be due to a nutrient deficiency, an inherited enzyme deficit, toxic build-up, or drug effect. An organic acids urine test helps reveal activity and changes at the metabolic level, helping practitioners discover hidden issues and pinpoint where therapeutic focus is needed.
DUTCH Test
The DUTCH test (Dried Urine Test for Comprehensive Hormones) is a very informative test for anyone considering bioidentical hormone therapy, or suspects they might have a hormone problem. The test is done four times in a day, and the strips are then used to provide a complete hormone panel, including metabolites, effectively replacing multiple testing methods.
