Functional
Testing
No two people’s illness is the same, even if their diagnoses is identical. Recognizing that everyone’s body, biochemistry and health journey is unique, is an important part of creating an intervention that really works.
Investigative, functional & biochemical testing
In some circumstances, functional testing may be helpful in understanding the underlying causes of your symptoms. Testing can be done using either blood, saliva, urine or stool. Using different tests removes the guesswork of how your body is functioning and provides a more detailed picture of your current health status. This allows us to intervene in a very precise way and address the underlying causes of your symptoms with the aim of restoring your health function, and in turn, restoring your health.
In medicine, we have traditionally thought about things in terms only of health and disease, with the assumption being – if you don’t have a diagnosable disease, then you are healthy.
However, Functional Medicine recognises that you don’t develop a disease overnight and we understand that there is a period of disrupted and malfunctioning biochemistry and physiology present in the developing period of illness, which may be several years long.
Gain a better understanding of disturbances in your body.
We also understand that during this period, you can have troublesome symptoms or feel pretty ill. Better understanding of the disturbances in your body allows us to intervene in a very precise way, to address these underlying causes of symptoms or illness, with the aim of restoring healthy function, and in turn, optimal wellness.
Popular tests
I work closely with many professional industry-recognised laboratories that offer a comprehensive range of tests. Functional testing fees are in addition to consultation fees and they are usually paid to the laboratory directly. Some of these tests are the same as those used conventionally by your GP although I may look at them a little differently.
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QuestionnaireBefore your first appointment I will ask you to complete a comprehensive health and nutrition questionnaire. This includes questions relating to your medical history, symptoms, diet and lifestyle. All information is fully confidential and this will give me some idea of your concerns and what you might need going forward. I will use this as a starting point to investigate the root causes of your health issues
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Initial ConsultationInitial consultation lasts between 60-90 minutes. During this time, we will discuss your current concerns, diagnosis and symptoms, your health and family history, physical activity, sleep, use of medication and supplements and dietary habits and preferences. I will take into account your health goals and priorities and we will discuss any previous protocols and strategies. The main focus of the consultation is to investigate the root causes of any symptoms you are experiencing. If a certain area needs to be further investigated, I may recommend some laboratory and functional testing to help me establish what is going on under the surface.
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Nutritional PlanAfter evaluating all the gathered information, taking into consideration individual needs and preferences, I will devise an evidence-based, personalised nutrition and lifestyle plan. A plan that not only helps your body function better, but also fits in with your daily routine. I will be waking you through the implementation of your interventions and support and guide you the whole way.
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Follow up ConsultationsThe follow up consultations are designed to help you achieve your goals as knowing what to eat and do is only one aspect of the plan. Staying motivated is often the hardest part. Follow up consultations offer accountability and ongoing support as I understand that some habits are hard to change. We will always be working as a team to ensure the best possible outcome and we will assess your progress and review your plan at each appointment to ensure you are staying on track. Everything that we discuss will be in complete confidence and without judgment.