Functional Testing:
what is it & How Can it Help Me?
Have you ever wondered why two people with the same symptoms can have such different responses to the same treatment? Or why a medication works wonders for one person but not for another? The answer often lies not just in ‘what’ is treated, but ‘how’ it’s diagnosed. That's where functional testing comes in—a powerful tool in naturopathy and holistic health that helps identify the real reasons behind your health issues.
what is functional testing?
Traditional tests often just pinpoint diseases or measure specific body metrics at a single moment. But functional testing? It’s all about seeing how your body’s systems work as a team, focusing on their optimal function rather than just what’s ‘normal’. It helps us understand how your organs and systems operate as a whole, and how this relates to any symptoms or health concerns you might have.
Types of Functional Tests at Emba Wellness:
Microbiome Testing (Microba): Microba testing uses the latest shotgun metagenomics technology to identify your entire microbial population, providing invaluable insight into the balance and health of your unique microbiome. This testing enables us to assess the presence and ratios of beneficial and pathogenic microbes.
Gut Function Testing: Examines markers of gut inflammation, digestion and absorption, offering insights into gastrointestinal health.
Hormone Tests: Measure levels of various hormones to assess endocrine function and its impact on mood, energy, menstrual cycles, fertility and overall health.
Nutritional Deficiencies: Check for deficiencies in vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that are crucial for optimal body function. Blood pathology tests are analysed through a critical lens not just the standard reference range.
Antibody Testing: If autoimmunity is suspected then blood testing for the presence of specific antibodies will be tested.
Functional tests include a range of stool, saliva, urine, hair, blood, skin and vaginal swabs and can range from $50 - $600 depending on the type of test.
The Role of Functional Testing in Naturopathy
These tests do more than just name your health issues; they connect the dots. Say you’re always tired—these tests can show if it’s your thyroid or something else at play, guiding us to solutions that target the real problem, not just the symptoms.
By understanding the unique chemistry of your body, naturopaths can create treatments that are specifically tailored to you, leading to better health outcomes through bio-individualised medicine.
“Functional testing maps out a clear pathway from your current health state to understanding what’s really going on beneath. This means no more guessing”
Benefits of Functional Testing
It's not all about finding problems. Here’s what you actually gain:
Personalised Treatment Plans: Custom solutions that directly address your unique health puzzles.
Preventive Strategies: Catching potential health problems before they turn serious.
Empowerment Through Knowledge: When you know what’s up with your health, you make better decisions. It’s as simple as that.
Ready to get to the bottom of what's really going on with your health? Functional testing is your first move towards a healthcare plan that's tailor-made just for you. Let’s start this journey to truly personalised wellness together.
