Functional Medicine Testing

Listed below are some of the tests most frequently used at PPH along with a brief description of each. These laboratory tests are cutting-edge evaluations that are typically not available through conventional care providers or through conventional laboratories. They provide a deep and personalized look into the status and functioning of various bodily systems and are designed to help you maintain or restore health. Test results help us to understand your unique physiology and guide treatment plans. Your provider will help guide you through which test(s) to consider and in what order.

These functional medicine tests are grouped into the following categories: 

1. REMOVE the harmful
2. REPLACE the necessary (essential nutrients, bacteria, etc.)
3. REBALANCE the system
4. PERSONALIZED genetic testing
5. NON-LAB based consultations
   

REMOVE

• Comprehensive Stool Analysis – GI MAP, Diagnostic Solutions Laboratory
  This test is beyond cutting edge. Formulated in Georgia Techs microbiology division with reference ranges stamped by the FDA, this is a thorough DNA analysis of your gut microbiome including bacterial pathogens, viral pathogens, H. Pylori, probiotic (healthy bacteria) adequacy, bacterial overgrowth, bacterial species associated auto-immune triggers, parasites, fungi, and yeast. The test also examines your digestive function, digestive enzyme adequacy, gut immune health, gut inflammation levels, immune response to gluten, and other health markers. It is essential for those with IBS, SIBO, inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s, Ulcerative Colitis), cardiovascular disease, diabetes, autoimmune issues, and weight problems.
  Cost $389 | Sample Test
• Nordic Laboratories SIBO Test
  A standardized breath test to measure bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine. This test is appropriate for anyone with IBS or significant GI symptoms.
  Cost $245 Lactulose | Sample Test
•  Food Inflammation Testing / IgG with Complement – KBMO Diagnostics
  A comprehensive analysis of IgG and complement antibody sensitivity from 132 of the most commonly consumed foods, food additives, and yeast. IgG antibodies are associated with “non-allergic” or “delayed” food reactions that can worsen or contribute to many health conditions,  Lab Information.  This test also gives the provider insight into the presence of “leaky gut” syndrome and other digestive conditions.
  Cost $315 FIT 132 w LG Panel This lab can also be scaled back using an analysis of 22 of the most reactive foods for a cost of $130. We can discuss the best testing option for you.
• Heavy Metal/Essential Element Testing – ZRT Laboratory
  This test measures potentially harmful elements that can be toxic to organ systems, upset the balance of essential nutrients, create inflammation, and disrupt normal metabolic processes. It is often used when known toxicant exposures have occurred and it is specific for detecting mercury, cadmium, lead, and arsenic. Adults Only.
  Cost – $150-243 | Environmental Exposure History Form

REPLACE

• Comprehensive Stool Analysis (description above)   
• Comprehensive Metabolic Profiling – Metabolic Spotlight an Organic Acids Test (OAT) This deep dive into your biochemistry evaluates your functional ability in five key biological systems. Energy Metabolism, B-Vitamins, CNS Neurotransmitters and Hormone Production, Toxic Impacts/Detoxification, and Digestive Ability and Gut Microbial Health. Consider this test for those looking to improve energy, weight loss, enhance fitness, mood stability, detoxification, and gut health. It is an excellent annual test to elucidate and prioritize specific biochemical pathways that require support. Cost $281. Organic Acids Test
• Cellular Micronutrient Tests – Cell Science Systems  Here are two micronutrient tests that can be ordered separately, or combined for a deep look into over 100 personalized nutritional markers. Both tests use your white blood cells (WBCs), to assess your nutritional adequacy over the past 6 months. This offers a tremendous advantage over the typical blood draw which is often a single snapshot in time. –The Cellular Micronutrient Assay (CMA) measures 55 essential vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and fatty acids. This group of nutrients is responsible for energy production, base metabolic rate, and synthesis of hormones, neurotransmitters, organ tissues, and bones. Cost $239. See Pages 1-4 of the sample report below. –The Redox & Antioxidant Protection Assay (APA) measures your levels of 49 beneficial antioxidants and calculates an overall Redox Score. This test lets you know how protected your cells are from oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is cellular damage that increases your risk of many diseases. Diabetes, cardiovascular diseases (heart attack, heart failure, stroke), high blood pressure, neurodegenerative diseases (Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s disease…), immune system strength, and rapid aging are all linked to cellular oxidative stress. Cost $239. See Pages 5-9 of the sample report below. –-CMA plus Redox & APA tested together, Pages 1-9 of sample report $389.  Sample Test.  Testing both Assay together saves $90.    
• Omega 3 Index – $50 includes shipping. Omega 3 Index.  This simple test is a 3-4 month look back at your average omega 3 fatty acid values. Low omega-3 levels are associated with a multitude of health issues such as heart disease, Alzheimer’s, eye diseases, skin health, depression, joint pain and stiffness, and general inflammation. Nutritional studies demonstrate that over 68% of adults and 95% of children are deficient in omega-3 fatty acids. This test is foundational for anyone interested in improving their current and future health.                         

REBALANCE

• Nordic Laboratories – Adrenal Stress Profiles
  This test is a measure of an individual’s stress response by examining your levels and rhythms of free cortisol and DHEA. The Cortisol to DHEA ratio is an important marker to examine your cellular breakdown (catabolic) vs cellular repair (anabolic) state. Overall, this is a test of adrenal gland health. Adrenal imbalances are often at the root of many other hormone imbalances such as thyroid hormone and sex hormones. This test is often appropriate for those individuals with fatigue, mood disorders, and autoimmune disease.
  Cost $159 – No Insurance | Sample Test
• Hormone Testing
  PPH uses one of two labs to evaluate hormones: Nordic and ZRT. The endocrine system is a complex area therefore appropriateness for this type of testing will be based on individual circumstances. Treatment programs will be a number of lifestyle interventions and/or supplement based. Individuals seeking bio-identical hormone replacement therapy will be referred to an area expert.
  Cost $159-$325
• Comprehensive Stool Analysis (description above)

PERSONALIZE

• DNA Life Genetic Testing Panels
  DNA Life is an advanced European Genetic Testing Company that mandates all its medical practitioners complete a genetics certification process. DNA Life can also guarantee the privacy of your genetic data as it does not require personal identifiers (correct name, DOB, SS) to process your DNA! See the genetics area under services to learn more about this outstanding company and how it can truly personalize your healthcare routine. Some of my essential goto panels: DNA Health, DNA Estrogen, DNA–Mind,  DNA Sport. You pay for these labs once in a lifetime as your DNA does not change!  Price List to see all of your testing options and the associated lab fee.
• Telomere Testing
  This is an accurate measure of true human biological aging. Telomeres are special functional complexes at the ends of chromosomes that are involved in maintaining genetic stability and the regulation of cellular life span. This cutting-edge test can be used in isolation or to track the effectiveness of comprehensive interventional health plans.
  Cost is $290 | Sample Test

NON-LAB CONSULTATIONS

• Sleep Dysfunction
• Dietary Changes and Weight Loss
  
• Exercise Programs
• Stress Reduction
• Combine any of the Above

Will Insurance cover these tests?

Insurance companies may or may not cover the cost of testing. In general, insurance usually does not cover preventive or wellness testing. We can sometimes lower the cost of these specialized tests, depending on your medical history, using your health insurance. We will work with you to determine which tests are the most appropriate for you to help you improve your health.