Functional Testing

Functional testing is a powerful tool which can help us uncover crucial information.

I use a wide range of tools to help my clients find the root cause of their symptoms. Functional laboratory tests are part of my toolkit and can help us find information in areas such as:

  • Nutritional and biochemical deficiencies and excesses
  • Digestive function
  • Imbalances in gut, mouth and genital bacteria
  • Hormone imbalances, e.g. thyroid, adrenals (cortisol, cortisone, adrenaline, noradrenaline), sex hormones (oestrogen, progesterone, testosterone, DHEA, DHT)
  • Neurotransmitter imbalances
  • H. Pylori overgrowth
  • Candida albicans overgrowth (thrush)
  • Heavy metal excesses (mercury, arsenic, copper) due to environmental or occupational pollutants

Functional tests are optional, however I will recommend tests that I think may reveal invaluable information about a clients’ health. I will advise on the most appropriate test based on an individual’s presenting symptoms and health goals.

These comprehensive laboratory tests are not available through public healthcare services as they provide a more in-depth solution, which is not covered by NHS funding. I use the most respected laboratories in the UK, Europe and USA to conduct lab testing, including Genova Diagnostics, Precision Analytical, Invivo Diagnostics, Regenerus Laboratories and Lifecode Gx.

Tests are included in our

The Investment Programme

Comprehensive Stool & Microbiology Testing

This test takes a closer look at your digestive markers and the gut bacteria present. This test may be recommended to individuals suffering from IBS, constipation, diarrhoea, bloating, coeliac disease and inflammatory bowel diseases.

DUTCH Hormone Testing

This test is recommended for individuals with symptoms of hormone imbalance, e.g. infertility, PCOS, irregular/painful/absent periods, hormonal acne, PMDD, hormonal hair loss and more. It can also help to uncover information for those suffering from insomnia or adrenal fatigue/exhaustion.

Intestinal Permeability Testing

Informally known as leaky gut, intestinal permeability is widely researched and found to contribute to a myriad of health problems including IBS, food sensitivities, low immunity, autoimmunity, depression and more. This will help us understand whether we need to implement a gut healing protocol.

SIBO Testing

Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth is a common culprit behind IBS, excess gas and flatulence, bloating after a meal and indigestion. This test will help us identify whether you have too much of harmful bacteria in your small intestine.

Vaginal Ecology Test

This test involves a simple swab used to collect a sample from the vaginal canal. This test can help to give us an insight into the composition bacteria in the vagina. This may recommended for individuals suffering from STIs, thrush or bacterial vaginosis (BV)

Oral Ecology Test

This test involves a taking a swab from the oral cavity. This test can help us find out what bacteria resides in the mouth and may be contributing to oral diseases such as gingivitis, periodontitis, bad breath and frequent ulcers.

Organic Acids Test (OAT)

The OAT test is a broad test and can be very useful for finding out more about nutrient deficiencies, bacterial and fungal imbalances, toxic build-up, and neurotransmitter imbalances. Organic acids are metabolites (waste chemicals) which are excreted in the urine. By looking at how much of each waste chemical is excreted, we can get an idea of how high or low certain nutrients, bacteria, heavy metals and neurotransmitters exist in the body.

Comprehensive Nutrient Profiles

I run a range of nutrient tests, including the Genova Diagnostics NutrEval and Metabolomix+, which help us to find out what nutrients you are deficient in. Depending on your symptoms, I will select the most appropriate and cost effective test for you.</p> <p>For basic nutrient tests such as Vitamin D, Iron (serum ferritin), or Vitamin B12, I may recommend going to your GP as these are available on the NHS.

Heavy Metal Testing

Heavy metals are potentially harmful to health. These include metals such as arsenic, lead, mercury, cadmium, which can accumulate in the body if an individual is susceptible to increased exposure, e.g. due to occupational hazards and heavy fish consumption. We can also test for copper, zinc, aluminium and thallium as these can also be harmful in high amounts.

Food Sensitivities & Intolerances

Many individuals suffer from food sensitivities and intolerances, and find it difficult to pinpoint which foods to avoid. If you are at wits end with your diet, it may be worth checking for sensitivities and then avoiding the foods to give your gut a chance to heal. When you are chronically exposing your gut to foods that cause you problems, your body may produce an inflammatory response which may be behind the digestive symptoms, fatigue or flu-like symptoms that you experience.

Testimonials

You have helped me overcome so much and have provided so much support over the last few months on my journey to becoming a healthier, happier version of myself. Thank you for being so selfless, always making time for me and going the extra mile to help me get where I wanted to be!

Becca M

Laura has been absolutely amazing at helping me get to the root of my gut issues. It is a continuing journey and I believe I wouldn’t have got to where I am today without Laura’s guidance and expertise.

Sarah K.

I lost all hope before meeting Laura and now I am so glad to say that following Laura’s nutritional recommendations my bowel movements are regular and CONSISTENT. I am able to enjoy food again, I have more energy for my two-year-old and my husband and I say this with tears of joy!!!

Esther D

Fantastic service working with Laura. Throughout the process of addressing my health concerns of high cortisol levels - she was patient, understanding and explained the benefits of certain food groups in laymen’s terms, as well as providing an effective supplement programme. She went above and beyond to ensure that my recommended nutrition programme was tweaked to accommodate my busy lifestyle and dietary preference needs. I would highly recommend working with her!

Divya J

Life has funny ways of bringing you to the people you need - Laura is one of those people for me. I’m SO incredibly grateful to have found her. She works in a way I’ve never experienced before - by piecing everything together in order to see the whole picture.

Lakyn S
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