Lab Test Instructions
As a functional medicine practice, we oftentimes see patients that just feel “not quite right” – where there is no one dominant symptom that can point us in the right direction. Examples can range from chronic bloating, unexplained headaches or migraines, chronic fatigue, insomnia, to any number of vague symptoms.
Beyond exploring possible lifestyle factors to identify the root cause of chronic dis-ease or wellness challenges, we frequently use advanced functional medicine lab testing that provide valuable information about health at the cellular level.
The test results help guide our treatment recommendations in major ways – allowing us to craft an approach unique to your situation, genetics, and biochemistry.
GI-MAP Test
The FDA-approved GI-MAP test by Diagnostic Solutions Laboratory was designed to detect intestinal microbes that may be disturbing normal microbial balance or contributing to illness. The test is also an important indicator of digestion, absorption, inflammation, and immune function.
Organic acids (Genova)
By checking organic acids, we are able to get a personalized view of your physiology – from how well you utilize carbohydrates, fat and protein for energy, to how well your cells make energy , B vitamin status, neurotransmitters involved in brain and mood, markers of toxicity and antioxidant status.
Salivary Cortisol and DHEA testing (Genova)
The Adrenocortex Stress Profile (ASP) provides an assessment of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis using carefully timed salivary samples of the hormones cortisol and DHEA. Salivary testing is an easy, non-invasive option to measure unbound, biologically active parent hormone levels. Four salivary samples measured throughout the day to give insight into the natural circadian diurnal cortisol rhythm, and help clinicians address specific daily stressors.
The symptoms of HPA axis dysfunction can be vague and are highly variable but may include: fatigue, insomnia, weight gain, depression, GI complaints, and chronic pain. HPA axis dysfunction is associated with many conditions including:
- hypertension
- cardiovascular disease
- gastrointestinal and immune dysregulation
- diabetes and metabolic syndrome
- depression
- chronic fatigue
- persistent pain
- neurodegenerative disease and cognitive decline
Adrenocortex Stress Profile testing can reveal these HPA axis imbalances and provide direction for clinical intervention with targeted therapeutic treatments such as nutrient support and/or adaptogens, stress management, behavioral modification and lifestyle interventions.
Stool testing (Genova)
The GI Effects Comprehensive Stool Profile can reveal important information about the root cause of many common gastrointestinal symptoms such as gas, bloating, indigestion, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and constipation. This test is also an important indicator of digestion, absorption, inflammation and immune dysfunction.
This stool analysis utilizes biomarkers such as fecal calprotectin to differentiate between Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). In addition, Genova’s GI Effects test can be used to evaluate patients with a clinical history that suggests a gastrointestinal infection or dysbiosis.
Gut microbes are codependent with one another and with their human host, and the health of one affects the other. A sizeable volume of research associates a dysbiotic, or imbalanced gut microbiome with multiple disease states both within and outside of the GI tract. The diverse metabolic activities of the microbiome ultimately impact the human host, and the activities of the human host ultimately affect the health of their microbiome.
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Journey With Me
Perhaps you have questions you’d like to ask before you make a decision to become a patient. Schedule a discovery call with Dr. Horton to answer your questions and determine if Peace and Calm Health Functional Medicine is right for you.