Analysis
Wellness is more than just the absence of illness—it’s about achieving balance across multiple dimensions, including physical, mental, emotional, social, and environmental health. There’s no single solution for optimal well-being; rather, it requires a commitment to lifestyle changes and a deeper understanding of your body's unique needs.
Functional analysis tests provide valuable insights into how different systems of the body work together, identifying imbalances that may be affecting your sleep and overall wellness. Using state-of-the-art technology, these tests assess metabolic and biochemical function through various sample types, including blood, urine, saliva, stool, and hair.
There’s no magic pill for wellness, but with the right knowledge, guidance, and the functional analysis tests we provide, you can take control of your health.
About Functional Analysis Tests
ABOUT FUNCTIONAL ANALYSIS TESTS
Functional lab tests assess how different systems of the body function together and can measure metabolic and biochemical function. State of the art technology is used to provide detailed information on imbalances or dysfunctions in the body. Examples of functional lab tests include the oral microbiome test, neurotransmitters or a sleep profile test that measures melatonin and cortisol. Blood, finger prick blood spot, urine, saliva, stool, hair or buccal swab are often taken for functional lab testing.
FUNCTIONAL TESTS VERSUS LAB TESTING
Conventional lab testing, often covered by Medicare, focuses on measuring specific markers in blood, urine, or other body fluids. Common examples include full blood count and liver function tests. In contrast, functional lab tests—typically not covered by Medicare—assess how different systems in the body are functioning, helping to identify imbalances and optimize overall wellness. These tests provide deeper insights into metabolic, biochemical, and hormonal health, guiding a more personalized approach to well-being.
SHOULD I TEST?
Medicare does not cover functional labs and tests can be pricey. Before we recommend any testing we always ask, ‘Will the test results change the treatment’? Oftentimes a test might reveal issues with a particular metabolic or biochemical pathway, however the health history and/or presenting symptoms already tell us this. In this case, testing is simply a confirmation that the treatment plan is heading in the right direction. However, knowing the test results is not necessary to create a treatment plan. That being said, testing can be advantageous in certain situations such as where the symptom picture is unclear.
How do I do the test and understand the results?
Unless otherwise advised, once a test has been purchased you are mailed a sampling kit with instructions on how to collect the sample/s and where to send the sample/s once collected. Once done, post in the provided package to the lab for testing.
A comprehensive report of the test results is emailed to our clinic and to you. For discussion and interpretation of your report with the Naturopath please book a complimentary Functional Test Results & Implementation Consult. Please make this booking for 10-14 days after you have posted your sample to the lab.
Currently Available Tests
Food Compatibility Testing
The Food Compatibility Hair Test helps to identify over 500 foods and products that may be causing inflammation and aggravating symptoms. Discover More about this test.
Oral Microbiome Test
The oral cavity harbours its own unique microbiome and if out of balance it can have consequences on our health. Locally, it can lead to periodontal diseases such as gingivitis and periodontitis as well as dental caries. Research also suggests that the oral microbiome influences the composition and function of adenoid and tonsillar tissue.
This is an easy-to-complete test revealing the state of the oral microbiome.
This is a particularly useful test for those experiencing obstructive sleep apnea and children with enlarged adenoids and tonsils.
Sleep Profile
This is a non-invasive saliva test that measures imbalances in melatonin and cortisol which can lead to sleep disturbances.
Neurotransmitters, Extensive Profile
This is a urine test measuring the levels of 6 neurotransmitters - GABA, serotonin, dopamine, noradrenaline, adrenaline and glutamate. Imbalances in specific neurotransmitters can lead to sleep disturbances.
Adrenocortex Stress Profile
A test to assess adrenal imbalances and stress hormones cortisol and DHEA using non-invasive saliva samples (4 samples across a 12 hour period).
Organic Acids Metabolic and Metabolomic Test
Organic acids are intermediate products from biochemical pathways such as energy production, neurotransmitter breakdown and intestinal microbial activity. Their levels can provide information about metabolic dysfunctions, all from a urine sample. The Metabolomic test is a nutritional test, while the Metabolic test focuses more on metabolic functions and dysbiosis.
Purchase your functional test today. Once purchased, don't forget to make your complimentary Functional Test Results and Implementation Consult booking for 10-14 days after you have posted your sample off to the lab. Refer above for more information.
Not sure which test you need?
Book a consultation with the naturopath to discuss the best functional test for your individuals needs and to receive tailored wellness solutions.