The following laboratory tests help to evaluate underlying physiological stressors that may be causing an array of health concerns. Tests are selected based on individual health concerns, and personal preferences (when applicable). Not all patients will require testing, as many conditions can be effectively evaluated based on a thorough assessment of symptoms and response to treatment.
Hormonal Health
Adrenal Stress Profile
Measures cortisol circadian rhythm (24-hour), along with DHEA (a precursor to sex hormones) to assess overall adrenal function. This test also helps to reveal problems adapting to environmental, emotional, mental and physiological stressors, as well as the impact of chronic illness on adrenal function and overall health. Tested by saliva.
Female Hormonal Health Profile
Assesses estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, cortisol and DHEA levels for concerns related to menstrual irregularities, pre-conception care, perimenopausal symptoms, estrogen metabolism and overall reproductive health. Tested by saliva.
Thyroid Assessment
Given that thyroid gland activity varies throughout the day, urinary T3, T4 (thyroid hormones) and selenium (co-factor for conversion of T4 to T3) are assessed over a 24-hour period to better reflect overall thyroid function. Symptoms associated with thyroid deficieny are feeling cold, fatigue, depression, constipation, weight gain, arthritis, muscle cramps, headaches, dry skin and brittle nails. Tested by urine.
Digestive System
Food Sensitivity Panel
This test checks for IgG immune responses to 120+ different foods, thereby identifying sources of ongoing inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract that can compromise overall health (e.g. digestive disturbance, poor immune function, low mood, joint and muscle pain, etc.) and impede weight loss. Tested by blood.
Celiac Profile
A comprehensive screening test for celiac disease, detecting anti-gliadin and anti-tissue transglutaminase antibody levels. Common celiac symptoms include ongoing digestive disturbance, mouth sores, rashes, iron deficiency anemia, fertility concerns, bone or joint pain, fatigue, irritability, depression and growth problems in children. Tested by blood.
Gastrointestinal Health Assessment
A useful test that may help to identify the cause(s) of stubborn gut concerns such as bloating, belching, gas, constipation, diarrhea, reflux, abdominal discomfort and weight issues. It offers a thorough evaluation of gut function by assessing digestion and absorption, gut ecology, inflammation and immune function, parasitology and bacteriology. Tested by stool.
Candida Panel
This test determines the extent of candida overgrowth in the body through a yeast culture (localized overgrowth) and antibody screen (systemic overgrowth indicating a ‘leaky gut’). Common symptoms of candida overgrowth include nail and skin fungal infections, rashes, digestive disturbance, fatigue, brain fog, mood swings, recurring vaginal and urinary tract infections, itching and sugar/carbohydrate cravings. Tested by blood and stool.
Environmental Testing
Toxic Metal Challenge
Chelating agents (substances that bind metals) are administered to release toxic metals from tissue stores. The presence of toxic metals in the body has been linked to neurological problems, memory impairment, learning difficulties and cardiovascular disease. Tested by urine.
Environmental Allergies (including molds)
Immune responses to trees, weeds, grasses, indoor allergens and molds are measured. In addition to typical allergy symptoms (itchy eyes, runny nose, coughing, etc.), many molds release toxins that can overwhelm various systems in the body – causing poor immune function, lung problems, chronic headaches, skin irritation and joint pain. Tested by blood.
Other Tests
Expanded Chemistry Profile
An extensive test checking blood counts (ruling out anemia and immune dysfunction), mineral and cholesterol levels, liver and kidney function, blood sugar regulation, thyroid health (TSH, Free T3 and T4, Anti-TPO, Anti-TG), vitamin D status, autoimmunity, and inflammation. Checking for candida overgrowth and gluten intolerance can be added for a thorough assessment of overall health. Tested by blood.