Our Top 5 Favorite Integrative Medicine Testing Options
Many patients come to integrative medicine seeking an in-depth look at their health to prevent or heal disease. Our providers have a tool kit of specialty testing options to give the in-depth insight patients are looking for. They have a wealth of knowledge in interpreting these tests to help them tailor a personalized integrative treatment plan for you. Here is a sampling of some of our favorite options:
GI Map by Diagnostic Solutions
This test evaluates gastrointestinal function through analysis of stool biomarkers to determine root causes of GI tract disorders. Results include assessment of digestive enzyme sufficiency, multiple specific inflammatory markers as well as a microbial culture. Antibiotic resistance susceptibility testing is also provided so if undesirable microbes are detected, we can recommend natural or pharmaceutical agents that will be effective. Testing may be recommended for patients experiencing indigestion, malabsorption, irritable bowel syndrome, altered GI immune function, bacterial/fungal overgrowth, and/or chronic dysbiosis (imbalanced microbiome). The GI Map informs your PIM provider how to specifically rebalance the GI tract. Learn more about the GI Map in another recent blog post.
DUTCH Tests by Precision Analytics
DUTCH has several panel variations to comprehensively assess sex and adrenal hormones and their metabolites to identify the root cause of any suspected hormonal imbalances. It can help your provider get insight to design a unique integrative treatment plan based on your individual results. It can also help determine if hormone replacement therapy is an option for you in addition to other integrative treatment recommendations. This test is also a great test to evaluate your risk of breast cancer because of the detailed breakdown of estrogen metabolites provided in the results. If you are interested in diving deeper into sex hormones, we recommend watching the replay of our very own, Zoie Phillips, PA-C’s Hormonal Balance webinars part 1 and part 2.
Cleveland Heart Labs
Cleveland HeartLab, Inc. offers a wide array of testing options that collect simple blood and urine biomarkers that provide a more complete picture of your health. A staple at PIM is our Cardiometabolic Risk Panel which assesses cardiovascular disease risk. They offer inflammatory and other advanced biomarker testing that our providers for an integrative approach to the management and prevention of heart disease. Other test panels include focuses such as thyroid hormones, female and male hormone panels, omega check, and a methylation panel. If you are interested in reducing your risk of metabolic diseases like diabetes, we recommend watching the replay of Lynda Sherland, FNP-C, CRNP’s recent webinar, Meet Me Upstream & Reverse Insulin Resistance of part 1 and part 2.
Cyrex Food Reactivity Screenings
Cyrex tests for real-world food antigens including dairy, eggs, grains, beans, nuts, seeds, vegetables, fruit, meats, herbs, spices, gums, brewed beverages, and additives. There are several different arrays that test for specific antigens. Your provider will work with you to determine which is appropriate for you based on your treatment plan and budget. This test can be used clinically to evaluate immune reactions to foods, provide early detection of dietary-related triggers of autoimmune reactivity and monitor the effectiveness of customized dietary protocols. This test is recommended for patients that present with unexplained symptoms whether gastrointestinal, neurological, dermatological, or behavioral in nature, or those who are suspected of having increased intestinal permeability (the gateway for environmentally-induced autoimmune disorders).
LabCorp and Quest Diagnostics
Did you know that much of your integrative testing can be done at a LabCorp or Quest? Our providers select an individualized set of markers to test depending on your unique needs. This can range from basic blood counts, metabolic panels, hormonal markers, mineral assessments, toxic metal analysis, and more. Many of these tests are covered by insurance. We also have options for those without insurance to get this testing at an affordable price.
Curious about which testing options are right for you? You have an opportunity to talk with one of our providers in a free 20-minute consult and find out. Schedule with Lynda Sherland, FNP-C, CRNP or Zoie Phillips, PA-C here!