Functional & Laboratory Tests
Functional laboratory tests are an integral part of naturopathic medicine, which uses a holistic approach to healthcare. These tests are used to determine the underlying cause of a patient’s illness or health concerns, rather than just treating the symptoms. This allows naturopathic doctors to develop personalized treatment plans that address the root cause of the issue, promoting long-term wellness and prevention of disease.
There are a variety of functional laboratory tests practiced by naturopathic doctors, and each one provides valuable information about a patient’s health. These tests can range from simple blood tests to more specialized tests that analyze urine, stool, or saliva samples. Here are some of the most commonly used functional laboratory tests by naturopathic doctors:
1. Comprehensive Blood Analysis: This is a standard test that is used by naturopathic doctors to assess a patient’s general health and well-being. It involves analyzing a patient’s blood for a wide range of markers, including red and white blood cell count, hormone levels, thyroid function, cholesterol levels, and nutrient levels. This test can identify any abnormalities or imbalances in the body, allowing naturopathic doctors to develop targeted treatment plans.
2. Food Sensitivity Testing: Many people have sensitivities to certain foods but are unaware of it. Food sensitivity testing helps identify these sensitivities by measuring IgG and IgE levels in the blood. By discovering which foods a patient is sensitive to, naturopathic doctors can recommend dietary changes that can alleviate symptoms such as bloating, headaches, skin issues, and fatigue.
3. Adrenal Stress Testing: Adrenal stress tests are used to evaluate the function of the adrenal glands, which play a crucial role in the body’s response to stress. These tests measure cortisol levels in saliva samples taken throughout the day, providing naturopathic doctors with insight into a patient’s stress levels and their potential impact on their overall health.
4. Comprehensive Digestive Stool Analysis: This test examines a patient’s stool sample for the presence of parasites, bacteria, yeast, and other microorganisms. It also analyzes the digestion and absorption of nutrients, which can reveal underlying gut issues that may be contributing to a patient’s health concerns.
5. Urinary Organic Acid Testing: This test measures the by-products of metabolism, providing information about the body’s biochemical processes. It can identify nutrient deficiencies, detoxification issues, and imbalances in gut flora.
6. Salivary Hormone Testing: These tests measure the hormone levels in saliva to assess the function of the endocrine system. Imbalances in hormones can cause a wide range of symptoms, from mood swings to weight gain, and identifying these imbalances can help naturopathic doctors develop effective treatment plans.
Functional laboratory tests play a crucial role in naturopathic medicine, providing detailed information about a patient’s health and helping to identify the root cause of their health concerns. This approach allows naturopathic doctors to develop personalized treatment plans that promote overall wellness and prevent the recurrence of health issues. By using these functional laboratory tests, naturopathic doctors can provide their patients with a more comprehensive and holistic approach to healthcare.
