DNA & Lab Services

What are laboratory services?

Laboratory services involve a variety of tests, some of which you may be familiar with from a medical physical or examination, such as blood testing or urinalysis. 

For the purposes of functional medicine, however, laboratory testing can give Charlie a clearer view of your overall health and indicate areas of imbalance. This means you aren’t only limited to putting out fires as they crop up — you can also take a proactive approach to your well-being.

By establishing a baseline, you can see clear evidence of positive or negative change.

What types of laboratory services might I need?

Charlie will let you know what tests are required. These may include:

Hormone level assessment

Comprehensive hormone testing may use a blood sample or, less commonly, a saliva or urine sample. This test could prove useful if a hormonal imbalance is disrupting your progress.

Functional blood chemistry analysis

This test is more in-depth than typical medical blood work since the goal is not just to fall within “acceptable” levels but to strive for optimal health.

Micronutrient testing

Micronutrient testing allows Charlie to see how well your body is utilizing micronutrients like amino acids, vitamins, and antioxidants. This is an excellent tool to promote immediate wellness and future health, helping you avoid chronic diseases, metabolic disorders, and immunological disorders.

Digestive system and gut function analysis

This test requires a stool sample and provides extensive information about your gut health, including:

• Intestinal absorption
• Digestion
• Intestinal metabolism
• Microbiology
• Mycology (yeast levels)
• Macroscopic details
• Gut immune function

Charlie goes over the results with you to interpret the data and discuss the appropriate next steps.

How do laboratory services benefit me?

The information gleaned from lab testing can help you get to the bottom of a nagging medical concern, monitor an ongoing condition, or optimize a treatment plan.

Correcting the underlying cause of an imbalance puts you closer to optimal health. For example, if you have a digestive disorder, Charlie can include supplements in your treatment plan and go over functional nutrition guidelines to improve your levels.

This also lets you clearly mark the effectiveness of your care; on top of feeling better, you can see how important health markers improve.

To learn more about how laboratory services can help, you can book online, through text, or via email today. You can also call the Root and Branch Holistic Care office.