How to Use Functional Lab Testing To Improve Health Outcomes | Dr. Kate Henry

Consult a Healthcare Provider:
Functional Medicine Doctor: These practitioners specialize in using functional lab testing to address the root causes of health issues.

  1. Functional Medicine Doctors: Identifying the Root Cause of Disease – WebMD

www.webmd.com


Integrative Medicine Practitioner: They combine conventional medicine with alternative approaches, often utilizing functional lab testing.   1. Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) – NCI

www.cancer.gov


2. Discuss Your Symptoms and Concerns:
Provide a detailed account of your health history, including any chronic conditions, symptoms, and medications you’re taking.   1. The 4 Most Commonly Ordered Functional Medicine Lab Tests – Rupa Health

www.rupahealth.com


Be specific about your goals, whether it’s improving overall wellness, addressing a particular health issue, or optimizing performance.
3. Select Appropriate Tests:
Your healthcare provider will recommend specific tests based on your symptoms and goals.   1. How To Choose The Right Functional Medicine Lab Tests For Your Patient’s Health Concerns

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Common functional lab tests include: Blood tests: Assess hormone levels, nutrient deficiencies, inflammation markers, and more.   1. Hormone Imbalance And Hormone Level Testing – Testing.com

www.testing.com


Urine tests: Evaluate kidney function, metabolic health, and detoxification pathways.   1. Kidney Function Tests: Types, Results & Follow Up – Cleveland Clinic

my.clevelandclinic.org


Stool tests: Analyze gut health, digestive enzymes, and microbiome composition.   1. The 4 Most Commonly Ordered Functional Medicine Lab Tests – Rupa Health

www.rupahealth.com


Saliva tests: Assess hormone levels, stress markers, and oral health.   1. Saliva testing for hormonal diagnosis: The facts and basics – News-Medical

www.news-medical.net


Genetic testing: Identify genetic predispositions to certain health conditions.   1. Genetic Testing | Genomics and Your Health – CDC

www.cdc.gov


4. Prepare for the Tests:
Follow any specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider, such as fasting or avoiding certain foods or beverages.   1. How to Prepare for a Bloodwork or Diagnostic Test – Labcorp

www.labcorp.com


Collect samples as directed, ensuring proper storage and handling.
5. Review the Results:
Your healthcare provider will analyze the results and provide a detailed explanation of any findings.   1. How It Works – Function Health

www.functionhealth.com


They will discuss the implications of the results and recommend appropriate interventions or lifestyle changes.   1. Functional Lab Testing: The Science Behind Personalized Health Insights – Alive and Well

aliveandwell.health


6. Implement Recommendations:
Follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations to address any underlying imbalances or deficiencies.
This may involve dietary changes, supplements, lifestyle modifications, or targeted therapies.   1. The Ultimate Guide to Functional Lab Testing

www.drerez.com


7. Monitor Progress:
Periodic follow-up appointments and additional testing may be necessary to track your progress and make adjustments as needed.   1. The Ultimate Guide to Functional Lab Testing

www.drerez.com


Remember: Functional lab testing is a valuable tool for understanding your overall health and addressing underlying issues. However, it’s essential to work with a qualified healthcare provider who can interpret the results and provide personalized guidance.  
1. How Functional Lab Testing Can Get To The Root Cause – Vizuri Health

vizurihealth.com