As people become more educated about, and more willing to take responsibility for their health, I often get asked about diagnostic testing.
Working with several laboratories in the UK and the US which offer tests analyzing pretty much every aspect of health, the ones I recommend most often are:
Total Thyroid Screen – (Venous Blood Sample) This test measures the full range of thyroid hormones = TSH, Total T4, Free T4, Free T4, T4:T3 ratio, plus Thyroid antibodies – TG and TPO (to assess for Hashimotos).
Adrenal Stress Profile – (Saliva Samples). This test measures levels of the stress hormone cortisol throughout the day, indicating your response to stress as the day progresses. It also measures DHEA and Secretory IgA.
Food Intolerance Tests – (Finger Prick blood test) Testing IgG antibodies for 100 – 200 foods. I can also test for allergies (IgE antibodies) and this requires a venous blood sample.
Comprehensive Stool Diagnosis Test – (Stool sample). Digestive complaints are extremely common these days. These tests can screen for species and levels of beneficial bacteria, pathogenic bacteria, opportunistic bacteria, parasites, worms, digestive function, inflammation, gut immunity, leaky gut. Some also test Helicobacter Pylori, Auto Immune Triggers, Viruses, Antigliadin antibodies (against wheat).
Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) Test – (Breath samples) It is thought that SIBO can be behind many IBS symptoms such as bloating, gas, constipation, diarrhoea, indigestion, heartburn and acid reflux. This test measures methane and hydrogen in the breath.
Functional Blood Chemistry – (Venous Blood Sample). I use tests which cover anything from a basic nutrient profile to analysis of the function of all body systems such as liver, kidneys, blood sugar, thyroid, immune system, hormones, inflammation, blood lipids (e.g. cholesterol).
Vitamin D – (Finger Prick Blood Test) – So vital for immune, bone, brain, heart, skin, gut health, plus blood sugar regulation, mood and energy, I think we should all know our Vitamin D levels and supplement with the appropriate dosage.
If you think a diagnostic test could shed light on your health issues, call me on 07847 209204 to have a chat about next steps.
