Where we invite you to explore the fascinating world of interpreting laboratory results through the lens of functional medicine. At Holistic Family Practice, we believe that the journey to optimal health begins with a profound understanding of your body’s inner workings. Unlike the traditional allopathic model, which often focuses on diagnosing and managing symptoms, our approach to laboratory assessment delves deeper. We view lab results as a window into your overall well-being, aiming to uncover nutrient deficiencies, accumulated toxins, and signs of organ health and function. We embrace a philosophy of proactive prevention, helping you make informed choices for a healthier future.
Laboratory assessment is a delicate balance of science and art, honed through years of experience and a keen eye for detail. Individual biomarkers hold unique insights, but it’s the intricate dance of combination markers that often reveals the deeper story within. Patterns emerge, painting a picture of your body’s systems and their interconnectedness. Our approach is driven by the belief that the body provides clues—subtle whispers that, when carefully interpreted, guide us toward optimal health.
We go the extra mile to provide you with a 30+ page report, unveiling the depth of your health imbalances. This report serves as your roadmap to well-being, helping us determine if further advanced functional lab testing is necessary. These advanced tests offer a more profound understanding of your body’s intricacies, enabling us to tailor our interventions to your specific needs.
In laboratory assessment we begin with a basic lab panel that typically includes a set of standard blood tests that provide essential information about a person’s overall health and well-being. Here are some common basic lab panels that are often assessed for patients:
This panel measures various components of the blood, including red blood cells, white blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and platelets. It can help diagnose conditions like anemia, infection, and blood disorders.
This panel evaluates the levels of glucose, calcium, electrolytes (sodium, potassium, chloride), kidney function (creatinine, blood urea nitrogen), and liver enzymes (AST, ALT, ALP). It provides insights into the functioning of vital organs and metabolic health.
This panel measures cholesterol levels, including total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, and triglycerides. It assesses the risk of cardiovascular disease and helps with cholesterol management.
These tests include Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH), Free T3, and Free T4. They evaluate the functioning of the thyroid gland, which plays a crucial role in metabolism and overall energy levels.
This test measures blood sugar levels and is used to diagnose or monitor diabetes and prediabetes.
These tests assess the health of the liver by measuring liver enzymes such as AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase), ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase), ALP (Alkaline Phosphatase), bilirubin, and albumin.
In addition to creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN), other tests like glomerular filtration rate (GFR) may be used to evaluate kidney function.
This panel measures levels of important electrolytes in the blood, including sodium, potassium, and chloride, which are crucial for maintaining fluid balance and nerve function.
This test provides a three-month average of blood glucose levels and is commonly used to monitor long-term blood sugar control in diabetes.
While not a blood test, urinalysis can provide valuable information about kidney function, urinary tract health, and the presence of conditions like urinary tract infections.
This test measures the level of vitamin B6 in the blood. Vitamin B6 is essential for various metabolic processes, including the production of neurotransmitters and the metabolism of amino acids.
The vitamin B12 test evaluates the amount of vitamin B12 in the blood. Vitamin B12 is crucial for red blood cell production, neurological function, and DNA synthesis.
Folate is a B vitamin that plays a role in DNA synthesis and repair. This test measures the level of folate in the blood.
Elevated homocysteine levels can be associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Testing homocysteine levels can help assess this risk and guide interventions.
Magnesium is an essential mineral involved in various bodily functions, including muscle and nerve function, blood glucose control, and bone health. A magnesium test measures the level of magnesium in the blood.Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) Level: This test measures the level of vitamin B6 in the blood. Vitamin B6 is essential for various metabolic processes, including the production of neurotransmitters and the metabolism of amino acids.
Here’s a list of advanced functional lab tests that we may consider running for a more in-depth assessment of the patients’ health:
The OAT evaluates organic acids in urine, providing insights into metabolism, nutrient deficiencies, detoxification, and microbial overgrowth.
This assesses the presence of heavy metals such as lead, mercury, cadmium, and arsenic in the body, which can have detrimental health effects.
Mycotoxin testing detects the presence of mycotoxins produced by molds in the body, which can contribute to a range of health issues.
The Alcat test is a food sensitivity test that measures immune responses to various foods and substances, helping identify potential triggers for inflammation and food sensitivities.
This panel assesses hormone levels, including estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, cortisol, and others, providing insights into hormonal imbalances.
A comprehensive stool analysis evaluates the gut microbiome, assessing the presence of beneficial and harmful bacteria, parasites, and inflammation markers.
This assesses levels of essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants in the body to identify nutrient deficiencies.
Advanced lipid profiles and inflammatory markers can be used to assess the risk of cardiovascular disease in more detail.
Genetic testing can provide insights into genetic variants that may influence health and disease risk.
Measures cortisol and DHEA levels to assess adrenal gland health and stress response.
These panels use blood tests to identify sensitivities or intolerances to specific foods and substances.
Comprehensive thyroid panels can assess thyroid hormone levels, thyroid antibodies, and other markers related to thyroid function.
Evaluates neurotransmitter levels in urine or saliva, providing insights into mood, cognitive function, and neurological health.
Measures metabolites of hormones, shedding light on hormone metabolism and potential imbalances.
Assess markers associated with autoimmune diseases to detect autoimmune issues and guide interventions.
In cases of severe imbalance, we harness the power of bioenergetics, a sensitive tool that complements traditional laboratory diagnostics. It allows us to explore the subtle energetic imbalances that may underlie your health concerns.
For your convenience, we offer third-party billing for basic lab tests, ensuring accessibility and coverage where available. We understand that not everyone may have insurance, which is why we provide affordable cash options. Our commitment is to make holistic healthcare accessible to all who seek it.
At Holistic Family Practice, our laboratory assessment is not just about numbers—it’s about the journey towards whole-body well-being. We invite you to explore the science, art, and possibilities within your own health, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Your health is our passion, and together, we can uncover the path to a vibrant and fulfilling life.
