I often use traditional labs such as paps, x-rays, MRI’s, blood work, etc. to evaluate patients. However as a Naturopath that practices functional medicine, I specialize in testing that most doctors do not offer. The following is a synopsis of some of the most common tests that I offer my patients:
Patients collect saliva and a specialty lab determines levels of estradiol, testosterone and progesterone. Saliva most closely represents the level of hormones in the tissues as compared to other ways of testing for hormones. Our goal is to achieve optimal levels and not just “normal” levels.
Patients collect saliva and the specialized lab determines DHEA and cortisol levels. Additionally a 4-point cortisol test can be done to determine the variations of the stress hormone throughout the day and night.
This test is done through urine after a patient takes a “chelating agent” to help pull the metals out of their neurological system. Chelating agents are typically given through a capsule or powder form. Once levels are determined they can be removed in a safe, noninvasive manner.
This is a breath test that can determine levels of methane and hydrogen in the small intestine. It can be very useful for determining imbalanced bacteria in the gut.
This is extremely comprehensive test that determines how the digestive system is working rather than looking at just the anatomy. Information that is reported is as follows:
Most labs test for immediate reactions to foods and do not test for delayed reactions. This specialty test is designed to determine delayed food reactions that can occur hours to days after a food is ingested.
This blood test is an extremely comprehensive way to determine vitamin, mineral, immune system, and antioxidant status. It is difficult to do this through standard labs as it is considered a screening by most insurance companies.
Levels of brain chemistry hormones can be tested to determine imbalances in inhibitory and excitatory hormones. Very specific recommendations can be made to support mood disorders, sleep disorders and the inability to cope with stress.
