Bridging the Gap: Functional Testing Explained—A Holistic Approach to Your Health
As someone who bridges the gap between holistic and traditional care, I believe in the power of collaboration to give you the best possible support for your health. While I focus on functional testing to uncover root causes and imbalances, I also encourage you to work with your GP for standard testing to address diagnosable conditions or monitor chronic health concerns.
In this blog, I’ll explain how functional testing differs from standard testing, why both are important, and how we can work together to get a complete picture of your health.
What Is Standard Testing?
Standard testing is what you’ll typically get through your GP or a specialist. These tests are essential for diagnosing diseases, monitoring chronic conditions, and addressing acute health concerns.
What It Covers
Blood sugar levels for diabetes.
Cholesterol and heart health markers.
Full blood counts for anaemia or infections.
Imaging like X-rays or MRIs for structural issues.
💡 Example: If you’re feeling run-down, a GP might check for low iron, thyroid dysfunction, or infections through standard blood tests.
What Is Functional Testing?
Functional testing takes a holistic approach by focusing on how your body’s systems are functioning overall—not just whether they fall within a “normal” range. Functional tests dig deeper, helping to uncover the root causes of symptoms like fatigue, digestive discomfort, or hormonal imbalances.
What It Covers
Hormones: Assessing how cortisol, oestrogen, and thyroid levels are performing throughout the day.
Gut Health: Identifying microbiome imbalances, food sensitivities, or leaky gut.
Nutrient Status: Checking for deficiencies in vitamins, minerals, or antioxidants.
Toxins: Screening for heavy metals or mold exposure.
💡 Example: If you’re dealing with bloating or digestive issues, a functional test might examine your microbiome to identify imbalances or look for food sensitivities that could be triggering inflammation.
Key Differences Between Functional and Standard Testing
Focus:
Standard testing focuses on diagnosing diseases, while functional testing looks at identifying root causes and imbalances.Approach to Results:
Standard testing measures results against a “normal range.” Functional testing, on the other hand, evaluates optimal function tailored to your unique body.Who Performs It:
Standard testing is typically performed through GPs and specialists. Functional testing is often offered by holistic practitioners like me.Timing:
Standard testing is reactive, addressing problems after they occur. Functional testing is proactive, helping to prevent issues by spotting early imbalances.
Why Functional Testing Might Be Right for You
Many of the people I work with come to me because they’ve had standard tests done, but everything came back “normal”—and they still don’t feel well. Functional testing can bridge that gap by identifying what’s going on beneath the surface.
Common Reasons to Consider Functional Testing
Persistent fatigue or burnout that doesn’t improve.
Gut issues like bloating, constipation, or IBS.
Hormonal symptoms like irregular periods, mood swings, or menopause symptoms.
Brain fog, low mood, or difficulty focusing.
Preventive health for a more proactive approach to well-being.
How I Work Alongside Your GP
While I offer functional testing as part of my holistic practice, I strongly encourage collaboration with your GP for all traditional tests. Standard testing is vital for diagnosing serious health conditions and ensuring there’s no underlying disease that needs immediate attention.
Together, we can combine these insights to create a personalised, whole-person approach to your care.
How It Works
Start with Your GP: I recommend seeing your GP for standard blood work, imaging, or other diagnostic tests if needed.
Explore Functional Testing: If your GP’s tests don’t provide the answers you’re looking for—or you want to dig deeper—I can help with functional testing to uncover imbalances and root causes.
Personalised Plan: Using the results of your functional tests, I create a practical, person-centred plan that works for your lifestyle and goals.
Types of Functional Tests I Offer
Here are a few examples of the functional tests I provide in my practice:
Comprehensive Gut Testing: Looks at your microbiome, digestion, and signs of inflammation.
Hormone Testing: Measures stress hormones (like cortisol), thyroid function, and reproductive hormones.
Food Sensitivity Testing: Identifies foods that might be triggering inflammation or discomfort.
Micronutrient Testing: Detects deficiencies in key vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Toxicity Screening: Assesses exposure to heavy metals, mold, or other toxins.
A Holistic Approach to Your Health
Functional testing isn’t about replacing traditional medicine—it’s about complementing it. My goal is to work alongside your GP and other healthcare providers to give you the most comprehensive care possible.
I know that navigating health challenges can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. I am here to listen to your story, support your goals, and help you take practical steps toward feeling your best.
Take the Next Step
If you are curious about functional testing and how it might help, let’s have a chat. Whether you are looking for answers, want to optimise your health, or just need a fresh perspective, I would love to hear from you.
💡 Ready to explore functional testing? Reach out today to learn more or book a consultation.
Your health is personal, and no two journeys are the same. I’m here to walk alongside you, offering support and guidance tailored to where you are... right now.