Focused 5 Functional Medicine Laboratory Tests to Improve Health and Bodily Function

Functional Medicine Testing in Oakland, CA:  At Optimized Wellness Center, we offer a host of functional medicine lab tests that far exceed what is offered through conventional medicine providers. Our functional medicine laboratory tests will provide our doctors with insight into how each patient’s body is functioning. Based on the results of these tests, our medical professionals can better understand the root cause of each unique health challenge so you can help you be your best self precisely and efficiently.

Below are the Top 5 Lab Tests Dr. Heath recommends to every new Practice Members at Optimized Wellness Center desiring a comprehensive deep-dive into their overall health and well-being.

These labs have been chosen because they offers a unique and specific perspective of assessing the body and how various underlying imbalances may be limiting you from being your best self with full health and vitality!

By running the Focused 5 Functional Medicine Lab Tests detailed below you will have the ability to discover what your excesses, deficiencies and toxicities are. From there we can then begin to build your body back to optimal health while getting rid of any toxins that are making you feel sluggish and at less than your best self.

Please click here for detailed lab preparation instructions.  

Functional medicine tests available at OWC

1. Thyroid, Adrenal & Hormone Assessment (DUTCH or ZRT Panel)

This comprehensive panel shows us how well the thyroid, adrenal glands and sex hormones are functioning. Some of the most common reasons we run this panel include issues with sleep, energy, weight management, low libido, peri-menopause, PMS, menstrual irregularities, thyroid imbalance, low immune function and erectile dysfunction.

Losing weight has much less to do with the amount of calories you eat or how much you exercise, and everything to do with the balance between hormone, cortisol levels, and metabolism. This lab looks at the hidden inflammatory triggers and hormone imbalances so we can discover what is holding you back from the body you used to have, want and the results you deserve.

How the test is administered: at home urine or blood & saliva samples, respectively

2. Food Sensitivity Testing (Meridian Valley)

This state-of-the-art lab specifically analyzes small droplets of blood placed on a card and mailed in.  This uniquely analyses for delayed (IgG) food sensitivity and is different than typical food allergy testing that looks for severe, life-threatening or immediate food reactions (IgE).  Your blood is then tested against 95 or 190 of the most common foods, and provides you with a personalized analysis of the foods you are mildly, moderating, and highly reactive to. By far, this is the most straight forward and simplest way to get the results you and your family need to begin making the best food choices in your life so you can be your best self.

How the test is administered: at home finger prick

*The food sensitivity test at our clinic is much different than a food allergy test run by a conventional medical provider.

3. Omega-3 & Cognitive Function Test (BrainSpan)

This test measures, tracks and optimizes brain function by looking at cell inflammation, toxicity and central nerve system (CNS) function. This simple self-administered test will identify nutrient & fatty acid deficiencies that may be affecting your brain health & function as well as implication on your cardiovascular system.

When your brain works right, your body works right. With this we can identify accelerated brain aging and risk of dementia, increased inflammation, reduced attention, ADHD, and poor memory as well as higher risk for concussions.

Since heart or cardiovascular health are the major causes of death this is a vital test. Simply looking at your cholesterol levels isn’t enough. While most know reducing inflammation is important, few are testing their Omega-3 to Omega-6 ratios. Research has shown that if your Omega-3 blood saturation rate is 9% or greater, then you are 90% less likely to die from a sudden cardiac death. This statistic is because plaque or cholesterol does not tell the whole picture. This is because if there is too much inflammation in your arteries (too much Omega-6s) then they can’t expand resulting in you being far more likely to have a cardiovascular event.

If you’re currently experiencing any cardiovascular, mood, skin, pain, or inflammation based health concern, then we highly recommend completing this lab today.

How the test is administered: at home finger prick sample and online cognitive assessment

4. Organic Acids Test (OATS) (GPL Labs)

Our medical professionals will consult and examine you  at your first visit. Depending on what is discovered, you may be a good candidate for this lab. This is one of the most under-rated lab when looking deeply at the root cause of why you’re not feeling well. GPL Labs says their Organic Acids Test (OAT) provides an accurate evaluation of intestinal yeast and bacteria. Abnormally high levels of these microorganisms have been shown to cause or worsen behavior disorders, hyperactivity, movement disorders, fatigue and immune function. Many people suffering from chronic illnesses and neurological disorders often excrete several abnormal organic acids.

How the test is administered: at home urine sample

5. Expanded Cardio-Metabolic Panel (Spectracell)

Those afflicted with diabetes, pre-diabetes and cholesterol issues are ideal candidates for this test. The results will give our doctors a 4 page in-depth analysis of how the body is functioning. We will discuss with you and, in turn, formulate a customized plan going forward to restore health.

How the test is administered: blood draw at lab

We also offer a comprehensive and vast array of testing from companies like:

ZRT

• male and female profiles
• adrenal stress
• hormones

Doctors Data

• halides / iodine / fluoride
• yeast
• zonulin
• hair tissue analysis

Great Plains

• gluten / casein peptides
• mycotoxins
• metals
• glyphosate

Cyrex

Igenex

Genova

Meridian Valley

Spectracell

ETC