top of page

What is functional testing?

 

Functional testing includes advanced specialty testing ordered by a functional health physician.  It is extremely uncommon for this type of testing to be ordered by conventional medicine practitioners (PCP, neurologist, endocrinologist, gastroenterologist, cardiologist).  Functional testing offers a holistic perspective on a person's health status. It differs from traditional medical tests that typically aim to diagnose specific diseases. Instead, these tests evaluate how various body systems—like hormonal, digestive, immune, and metabolic functions—are working together.

 

For instance, a functional health test might reveal if someone has a vitamin D deficiency that is affecting their immune response, something a regular blood test might not specifically highlight. By identifying these issues early, individuals can take proactive measures to improve their health.​

functional testing by balance functional medicine

​The Importance of Functional Testing

Uncovering Hidden Health Issues

A major benefit of functional health testing is its capacity to reveal unnoticed health issues. Many individuals may feel fine on the surface yet experience unexplained symptoms, such as chronic fatigue or digestive discomfort. A study showed that 70% of people who underwent functional health testing discovered at least one untreated deficiency or imbalance. Additionally, functional testing bridges the huge divide between "normal" routine labs and unanswered questions about ongoing symptoms suffered by patients.

 

By identifying these hidden problems, individuals can address them before they escalate into serious health concerns, ultimately leading to better long-term outcomes

What are the most common functional tests offered by Balance Functional Medicine?

Testing is often required to undertake the detective work, using standard blood pathology tests alongside functional tests such as, (but not limited to):
‍

Hormonal Tests

  • DUTCH – the best current testing methodology for hormonal investigation (uses urine sample over time + shows metabolites, not just the hormones themselves).

  • Anti-aging Panel

​​

Metabolic Tests

  • OATs – an organic acids test to help give clues to underlying health imbalances
    Stool testing- to test for pathogens, functional digestive capacity, microbiome health, as well as gut inflammation markers.

​​

Genetic Tests

  • MTHFR – detects variations in the MTHFR gene. This gene plays a role in the metabolism of folate, a B vitamin essential for cell growth and development. 

  • Methylation Panel

  • The HLA-B27 - is a genetic marker that predisposes individuals to certain autoimmune conditions, most notably ankylosing spondylitis, other inflammatory joint conditions, and inflammation of the eye. It is associated with autoimmunity.​

​

Immune Function Tests

  • Allergy 88 - one single test combining IgE, IgG, IgG4 and complement (C3d) reactions to 88 of the most common foods found in the diet.

  • KBMO FIT - tests food sensitivities, inflammation, and leaky gut using a blood spot test, measuring immune responses to 132 or 176 foods and additives.​

  • Environmental toxins – Exposure to toxins such as mycotoxins, heavy metals and other environmental pollutants

  • ARRAY - Assess various aspects of immune responses to food antigens, pathogens, and potential tissue damage

 

Digestive Function Test

  • GI MAP - a DNA-based stool test that provides a comprehensive analysis of gut health by identifying beneficial and harmful microbes, detecting pathogens like H. pylori and parasites, and evaluating markers for digestion, absorption, inflammation, and immune function

  • AIBA - directly measures leaky gut by measuring Zonulin, DAO, and LPS, which are direct markers of gut permeability.

 

Nutrition Tests

  • NutriEval - A blood and urine test that assesses levels of 40+ antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids, amino acids, and other nutrients, along with markers for oxidative stress and mitochondrial function. 

 

Epigenetics Testing

  • TrueAge Complete - looks at how your cells are aging (this is different from chronological age, which is based on the year you were born).

  • DNA Methylation Panel - reveals what nutrition and lifestyle factors might be most helpful to support their methylation ability, which is essential for gene expression.

  • 3 x 4 Genetic Test and Blueprint - a comprehensive gene analysis can provide insight into health areas such as diet, exercise, and immune health

  • Toxin and heavy metal exposure

bottom of page