Functional Nutrition and Functional Medicine Lab Testing Services - with Jenna Volpe of Whole-istic Living

Functional Nutrition and Functional Medicine Lab Testing

Functional nutrition and functional medicine lab testing us a cutting-edge way to gain invaluable insights into your body’s specific needs.   

(Call me biased, but what better way to understand your root causes and make more informed choices about your health?!)

At Whole-istic Living, we believe in bio-individuality. In other words, one size never fits all!  This is why we don’t just prescribe cookie-cutter diets or sets of supplements – you’ll receive your own unique treatment plan based on what’s going on in YOUR body. 

In our holistic health clinic, we have access to hundreds of different types of functional nutrition tests – but there are certain ones we tend to run most often, due to the nature of our clinical specialties:

  1. Mediator Release Testing for Food Sensitivities

Mediator Release Testing (MRT) is a cutting-edge method to identify food sensitivities which  often trigger symptoms of inflammation in people with chronic health issues. 

By measuring the release of inflammatory mediators in response to various food antigens, MRT helps pinpoint specific trigger foods, allowing for personalized dietary recommendations and targeted intervention strategies.

As a certified LEAP therapist (CLT), I’ve received over 30 hours of formal training specifically so I can help you unpack your MRT test results and take action accordingly!

  1. Comprehensive Stool Analysis Testing

Comprehensive stool analysis testing a powerful tool for assessing digestive health and uncovering imbalances in gut microbiota, digestion, absorption, and inflammation markers. 

By analyzing various aspects such as beneficial and harmful bacteria, parasites, yeast overgrowth, and digestive enzyme function, this test provides valuable insights into optimizing your gut health and resolving digestive concerns.

In our functional nutrition clinic, we can run any of the following types of comprehensive stool analysis tests:

  1. Micronutrient Testing

Nutritional deficiencies are an underlying root cause of many different types of chronic health issues. Micronutrient testing allows us to measure and assess your body’s levels of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and amino acids (the building blocks of protein). 

By assessing and addressing micronutrient deficiencies and imbalances that would otherwise fly under the radar (since this is not a routine test), we can craft personalized nutrition plans and prescribe supplemental protocols as needed to support optimal health, enhance energy levels, improve immune function, and address other nutrient-related issues.

  1. Organic Acid Testing

Organic Acid Testing (OAT) checks for metabolic byproducts in your urine and provides us with a 5,000-foot overview of your picture of health.  In a nutshell, this test helps us to uncover underlying imbalances related to your nutrient metabolism, detoxification, energy production, and gut health. 

The organic acid test can give us valuable insights into any nutritional deficiencies, yeast and bacterial overgrowth, mold/mycotoxin exposure, neurotransmitter metabolism imbalances, and mitochondrial function.  targeted interventions for improved overall well-being.

  1. DUTCH Hormone Testing

DUTCH (Dried Urine Test for Comprehensive Hormones) is a hormone testing method that provides a comprehensive analysis of sex hormones, adrenal function, and their metabolites. 

Looking at the metabolites is what makes the dried urine test the best type of hormone test, because a blood test won’t show you the full picture of hormone metabolites which show us more information about your full picture.

By examining hormone levels throughout the day and assessing their metabolism, DUTCH testing gives us a detailed picture of your hormonal patterns and any underlying imbalances, guiding personalized interventions to restore hormonal harmony and alleviate symptoms related to hormone dysfunction.

  1. Genetic Testing

Genetic testing can provide us with an understanding of your genetic predispositions and how they impact your health from a nutrition standpoint. 

By analyzing specific genes associated with metabolism, nutrient utilization, detoxification, and more, this test helps identify potential genetic variations that may influence your body’s response to diet, exercise, and lifestyle choices. 

The genetic tests we offer at Whole-istic Living (via Spectracell and Vibrant America) include:

  • MTHFR gene mutation
  • Factor V Leiden

Armed with this knowledge, you can optimize your health by tailoring your holistic lifestyle to align with your unique genetic makeup.

  1. Omega Check

Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are essential fats that play crucial roles in various aspects of our health.

The “Omega Check” is a specialized test that assesses the balance between these fatty acids in your body.

From brain function to heart health, inflammation regulation, and immune system support… everyone can benefit from this!

Imbalances in omega-3 and omega-6 ratios can contribute to chronic inflammation, cardiovascular issues, mood disorders, and other health concerns. 

Whether you need to increase omega-3 intake through fatty fish, flaxseeds, or supplements, or reduce excessive omega-6 consumption from processed foods and vegetable oils, Omega Check guides you towards achieving the ideal fatty acid balance.

By utilizing cutting-edge functional nutrition lab testing, you can uncover hidden imbalances and develop personalized strategies to optimize your nutrition, digestion, hormonal balance, and overall health. 

Next steps

Take control of your well-being today by embarking on a journey of self-discovery through functional nutrition testing!

You may purchase these tests online, directly through our clinic at retail price.

As an alterntive, we also offer these tests at reduced rates for our 1:1 and group clients. 

Learn more about 1:1 services here!