A foundational component of functional and integrative medicine is comprehensive nutrient, gut, and hormone testing. These tests provide fascinating information that can identify key imbalances which we can’t assess via routine labs. They help us to look closely at your unique biochemistry so that we can determine the true root cause of your symptoms. While some of these tests require a basic blood draw, many utilize other bodily fluids – most of which you can collect in the privacy and convenience of your own home.
We’ve compiled a table of the most useful at-home functional medicine tests offered by the laboratories that we work with. All kits can be shipped to your home directly from the lab companies, and you don’t need to leave the house to collect your samples. How cool is that? The lab companies typically require a small deposit up front, and the balance can almost always be billed to your insurance company, which makes the tests relatively affordable. Have fun perusing this list, and let us know if you have questions!
| Test | What it tests for | What conditions might it be helpful for? | Type of sample |
| Comprehensive Stool Analysis
Click HERE to view a sample report |
Assesses your gut bacteria (microbiome) and looks for overgrowth of yeast, parasites, harmful bacteria. Assesses digestion/absorption, inflammation, immunity |
|
Stool sample |
| Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) | Gases produced by bacteria that can overgrow in the small intestine |
|
Breath test |
| Organic Acids Test
Click HERE to view a sample report |
Functional vitamin and mineral status, amino acids, oxidative stress, neurotransmitter metabolites, detoxification pathways, markers for yeast and bacterial overgrowth |
|
Urine sample |
| Adrenal Testing
Click HERE to view a sample report |
4-point salivary cortisol levels to assess your stress response, may also look at melatonin levels |
|
Saliva |
| Female Hormones | Estrogens, progesterone, testosterone, cortisol – measured on one day or across a 28 day cycle |
|
Saliva or Urine |
| Male Hormones | Testosterone, DHEA, cortisol |
|
Saliva or urine |
| Toxic Elements | Heavy metals and environmental chemicals. Also looks for nutrient loss which can be a result of toxins |
|
Urine |
| Genetic Testing | Identifies single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) like MTHFR, COMT, VDR and others to help identify genetic predispositions to certain health issues |
|
Cheek swab |
| Food Intolerances
Click HERE to view a sample report |
Measures IgG immune response to 30 different foods |
|
Finger prick (blood spot) |
If any of these tests look appealing to you, Amanda or Michelle would be happy to set up a quick visit to discuss the utility of one or another. Then, when the results are available, we’ll walk through them together so you can have an even deeper understanding of your health.
Comments 1
Hi Amanda,
I’m feeling well on the combination of methimazole and l-carnitine. I’m feeling my muscle strength coming back as well. Still have a bit of a rash along my hairline, but no complaints. I know you wanted to re-test after 30 days on this regimen. I’m thinking I would prefer to wait under the current circumstances, especially since I’m feeling well. Unless one of these tests would help you assess my current thyroid levels.
Just a thought and wanted to give you an update.
Thank you
Diane Kittle