Testing - What test is right for you?
Complete Microbiome Mapping - Gut health stool test
As Hippocrates said, “All disease starts in the gut”. This couldn’t be truer, and this is why it is one of my most frequently used test in clinic.
This test investigates: parasites, bacterial overgrowth, fungi, autoimmune triggers, inflammation, coeliac markers, macronutrient breakdown, liver detoxification pathways, good bacteria profile and stomach lining health which impacts the absorption of nutrients and where our immune system is found.
This test can be used to investigate the root cause of symptoms or as a preventive measure to reduce the risk of developing health conditions such as coeliac disease, irritable bowel disease (ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease), and autoimmune conditions. Microbiome mapping can also be used as part of preconception care, as a mother’s microbiome is passed onto the baby which impacts their own microbiome and related health conditions.
Microbiome mapping is a great tool for investigating the root cause of, skin conditions (eczema, psoriasis, acne, etc), I.B.S., I.B.D., fatigue, hormone imbalances, seizes, gastrointestinal complaints (diarrhea, constipation, gas, bloating, abdominal pain, etc), mood disorders, autoimmune conditions, behavioural conditions.
This test involves collecting a stool sample and can be completed in your own home. Because this testing is non-invasive it is great for both children and adults.
Hair Mineral Analysis
Hair mineral analysis measures nutrient and toxic metal content of hair. Hair is a more dependable bio sample than urine or blood serum. nutrient levels in serum or urine can fluctuate by as much as 20% over one day.
What is tested:
Nutrients: chromium, copper, iron, manganese, selenium, zinc, calcium, magnesium.
Heavy metals: aluminium, arsenic, cadmium, lead, mercury, nickel, silver, tin
Conditions where hair mineral and metal analysis can support clinical diagnosis and treatment include preconception, skin conditions, anxiety, behavioural conditions, emotional dysregulation, joint pain, hyperactivity, allergies, poor immune function, low thyroid function, scoliosis, and heavy periods.
This test involves cutting 2.5cm-4cm from the root of the hair to send off for analysis. This test can be completed in your own home. Because it is non-invasive it is great for both adults and children.
Vaginal Microbiome Mapping
The vagina is home to a complex ecosystem of organisms. An imbalance in these organisms can lead to infections and/or uncomfortable symptoms.
An estimated 75% of women will have at least one episode of a vaginal infection in their lifetime and over 30% of women test positive for bacterial vaginosis at any given time.
Vaginal microbiome mapping test looks at bacteria overgrowth, STIs, fungal pathogens, beneficial bacteria, pH levels, and bacterial vaginitis.
An imbalance in these vaginal microbes can contribute to inflammation, changes to discharge, odour, irritation, itching, burning, and pain. These symptoms can be implicated in conditions such as bacterial Vaginosis, candida/thrush, recurrent UTIs, HPV, and HSV. This imbalance can also impact lubrication, fertility, pregnancy, urinary and menstrual symptoms.
SIBO Breath Test
Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is a common gastrointestinal disorder often with symptoms of bloating, gas, reflux, constipation, diarrhea, irregularity bowel movements, and abdominal pain. It is thought that as many as 78% of people with IBS have SIBO.
The test is simple, non-invasive breath test that can be completed in your own home.
Thyroid Panel
Thyroid abnormalities are one of the most common endocrine disorders affecting millions worldwide. Genetics as well as diet and lifestyle factors can play a part in the development of thyroid conditions.
Signs of hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)
Weight gain/difficulty losing weight, fatigue, depression, cold sensitivity, muscle aches, dry, flaky skin, hair loss, constipation, infertility, goiter (enlarged thyroid gland).
Signs of hyperthyroid (overactive thyroid)
Weight loss, rapid heartbeat, nervousness, irritability, trouble sleeping, fatigue, shaky hands, muscle weakness, sweating, heat intolerance, mood swings, nervousness, irregular menstruation, frequent bowel movements, goitre (enlarged thyroid gland).
This test requires blood test that can be taken at a pathology centre.
Cortisol Profile
This is a non-invasive saliva test that serves as a reliable marker of stress response and critical tool for revealing adrenal imbalances. Lifestyle, physical, and psychological stresses put constant demands on the adrenal glands. If they become depleted adrenal fatigue or insufficiency may be experienced.
Symptoms of adrenal fatigue/insufficiency include anxiety, depression, fatigue, headaches, irregular sleeping patterns, lack of stamina, reduced libido, hormone imbalances, impaired immune system, brain fog, and thyroid dysfunction.
Hormone Test – Women
Hormone imbalances are associated with numerous symptoms and health conditions that impact quality of life. Symptoms associated with hormone imbalances may include weight gain, brain fog, depression, disturbed sleep patterns, fatigue, low libido, miscarriage, mood changers, night sweats, PCOS, acne, infertility, vaginal dryness, heavy, light, absent, or irregular menstruation, insomnia, and symptoms of menopause.
Investigating hormones through the saliva is a reliable way to test hormones and can be completed at home. Hormones should be tested on a certain day within the cycle for the most accurate results.
