When the body if out of balance, there could be several presenting symptoms, especially if the underlying imbalance affects a few systems in the body. Investigative functional tests can help pinpoint what the issue is, its severity, get a baseline of certain markers to track progress, and be used to create customized protocols that will best target your unique needs. The following are some of the main comprehensive tests that may be used but there may be others recommended depending on the presenting concerns.
Adrenal Function/Cortisol Panel (DUTCH Test)
An objective measure of the body’s cortisol (stress hormone) production, level of resiliency, and stage of adrenal fatigue. Understanding daily fluctuations allows to fine-tune treatments for fatigue, burn-out, insomnia, hormonal imbalance or any condition impacted by stress. Learn more: https://dutchtest.com/resource/dutch-adrenal-sample-report/
Sex Hormone Panel (DUTCH Test)
Measuring hormones and their metabolites through urine can give a comprehensive picture of hormonal imbalance and deficiencies in the body. May help in treating fatigue, menopause, PMS, PCOS, weight gain, bone loss and mood disturbances. Learn more: https://dutchtest.com/resource/dutch-hormone-metabolite-sample-report/
DUTCH (Dried Urine Testing for Comprehensive Hormones) Complete:
This is the most comprehensive panel that in our experience is the gold standard for hormones testing. It includes the reproductive Sex Hormones and their metabolites, complete Adrenal and Cortisol panel, melatonin and additional markers that are not tested on any separate panel such as markers for vitamin B12, B6, oxidation stress (cancer promoting), glutathione markers (our main antioxidant and hormone detoxifier) and neurotransmitters involved in our moods (serotonin, dopamine and adrenaline/
noradrenaline markers). Learn more: https://dutchtest.com/resource/dutch-complete-sample-report/
Organic Acid Testing (OAT)
One of the most comprehensive tests out there! This test helps to assess the status of vitamins, antioxidants, neurotransmitters (brain and mood hormones), fatty acid breakdown, markers of metabolism, detoxification and energy production, as well as yeast and bacterial overgrowth. Effective for assessing generalized fatigue, gastro-intestinal symptoms, yeast/candida, and mood disorders. Learn more: http://www.greatplainslaboratory.com/organic-acids-test
Food Sensitivity Testing
Tests for immune response to a 100 different foods. Food sensitivities have been associated with digestive disorders & leaky gut, migraines, fatigue, weight gain, mood, memory and behavioral disturbance, skin health and musculoskeletal symptoms. Learn more: http://rmalab.com/medical-laboratory-tests/allergy/igg-sensitivity
Specialized Blood Work
As a naturopathic doctors, we can provide you with a requisition for specialized assessments that may not get assessed on routine blood work. This includes a comprehensive thyroid panel (TSH, T3, T4, thyroid antibodies), B12 levels, vitamin D, vitamin C, Red Blood Cell Magnesium levels (the best way to assess magnesium deficiency) minerals such as Copper and Zinc and many more. Note that this service is not covered by OHIP however some of these tests are not covered by OHIP with your family doctor either.