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Functional medicine laboratory testing

A number of specialized laboratory tests are available to assess a wide range of health concerns and conditions.

These cutting-edge tests are typically not offered in a conventional medical setting. 

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If you choose a functional medicine consult, discussion around the most appropriate lab test for you is had during the initial consult. Some choose to forgo tests and use my recommendations from applied kinesiology (AK) muscle testing instead. Others prefer to have objective proof of the underlying issue, which is exactly what these specialized lab tests provide. 

 

For access to these tests, a practitioner referral is required, as interpretation can be complicated. We highly recommend working with a qualified practitioner to get the most benefit from these tests. 

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The Allergy 88 Food Allergy and Sensitivity Test is the only one we would consider providing a test kit to non-practice members, with an admin fee of $50 NZ. 

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Information on the tests most commonly offered can be found below and include test instructions and a sample report. Please note prices are subject to change and are in NZ Dollars. 

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR CLIENTS REGARDING TESTING

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Many of the tests have strict pre-test instructions and some have dietary, medication or supplement restrictions. It is therefore essential to read the instructions fully and well prior to when you plan to complete the test. 

For example: Avocado, fava beans and bananas should be avoided for 48 hrs prior to a DUTCH or OAT test. Probiotics, anti-microbial herbs, and anti-biotics need to avoided for 2-4 weeks prior to a stool test. 

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Most tests can be completed at home over a weekend and couriered on a Monday. However, some tests are time-sensitive, and therefore testing is best avoided around public holidays in case it is not received in time. Be sure to check if there are any public holidays coming up. 

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A courier bag is supplied in the test kit. When calling the courier to arrange collection it is essential that you let them know it is a medical sample that is time-sensitive and needs to be collected at the time requested. If you do not mention this they are unlikely to prioritize collection and the sample may be degraded to the point it would need to be repeated. 

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There are forms contained within the test kit that need to be completed. Please ignore the part where it states the practitioner needs to sign, simply write the practitioner's name. Unless mentioned to you, please provide your credit card details on the form to pay the company directly. You are receiving the wholesale rate. We do not add a mark-up. 

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It can take 3-5 weeks to receive the results as they are shipped and analyzed overseas. 

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All test kits purchased are non-refundable once your specimen has been received for testing.


If you cancel your order prior to your specimen being received for testing a $50 NZ administration fee will apply.

If a mistake is made during a stool or urine test and the sample has not been received for testing, another kit can be sent at a cost of $20 NZ. 

 

Stool testing

Stool analysis is particularly useful for those with:

  • Gastrointestinal and Digestive Symptoms

  • Irritable bowel syndrome

  • Inflammatory Bowel Disease

  • Autoimmune Disease

  • Inflammation

  • Food Allergies and Sensitivities

  • Nutritional Deficiencies

  • Joint Pain

  • Chronic or Acute Diarrhea

  • Bloody Stool

  • Mucosal Barrier Dysfunction

  • Abdominal Pain

  • Fever and Vomiting

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It can:

  • assess the gut microbiome and compare against published normobiotic reference population.

  • identify bacteria, viruses, parasites and yeasts that may be contributing to symptoms. 

  • assess stool chemistry looking at inflammatory, immune, intestinal health and digestive markers.

  • with susceptibility testing, determine the most appropriate treatment to address any pathogenic infection found. 

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Doctor's Data offers my preferred stool analysis as it utilizes MALDI-TOF laser technology and can identify more than 1400 organisms. It also offers accurate parasite testing with 3 consecutive stool samples and PCR analysis (multiplex DNA technology). 

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H Pylori testing can be added to the GI 360 test for $99. 

Woman clutching her abdomen with toilet in the background IBS symptoms

SIBO breath test

Used to evaluate for a Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) which is an underlying cause of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) in approximately 50% of sufferers. 

Other symptoms of SIBO can include:

  • Postprandial bloating/abdominal distension with associated discomfort

  • Gas and belching

  • Food Intolerances

  • Constipation (generally associated with methanogenic bacteria)

  • Diarrhea (generally associated with hydrogenic bacteria)

  • Immune activation (e.g. food sensitivities)

  • Nutrient deficiencies i.e. vitamin B12 & Iron

  • Weight loss / weight gain

  • Fatigue or brain fog

  • Fibromyalgia

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A restricted diet is required for 24 hours in preparation.

Following a collection of a baseline breath sample, either a lactulose or glucose test substrate is consumed.

The bacteria may ferment the lingering substrate and produce hydrogen and/or methane. These gases are absorbed into the bloodstream and exhaled through the breath. Breath samples are collected every 15-20 minutes (depending on the substrate used) for up to 3 hours and analysed for the amount of Hydrogen, Methane and CO2 produced.

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SIBO tests are pre-paid with the kit. 

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Precision Point P88-Dietary Antigen Test

One of the best tests I've found to assess food allergies and sensitivities. 

The P88 Dietary Antigen Test is one single blood test combining IgE, IgG, IgG4 and complement (C3d) reactions to 88 of the most common foods found in the diet. 

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Overt IgE-mediated food allergies can lead to hives, anaphylaxis, or digestive issues while delayed food sensitivities (IgG and IgG4) are linked to sinus problems, acne, gas, bloating, fatigue, constipation, autism, irritable bowel syndrome, and even depression.

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Precision Point Diagnostics provides reliable, reproducible semi-quantitative measurement of IgE, total IgG, and IgG4 using an indirect ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay). The system is also capable of detecting immune complexes that contain the complement markers C3D or C1q.

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Other food sensitivity tests may have a weak scientific basis or they may not give the full picture of food reactions. Some tests use live cell analysis, which is not a scientifically accepted sign of true food sensitivity or allergic reaction. Other antibody assays may measure total IgG antibodies only; they could miss food reactions that activate the inflammatory complement cascade. Still other tests may measure only a specific IgG subclass and miss out on information about IgG1, IgG2, IgG3, and IgG4, which is reported as total IgG in the Precision Allergy 88.

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D.U.T.C.H. Hormonal Testing

Precision Analytical has one of the most advanced and comprehensive models for testing steroid and adrenal hormones.

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Collection at home is easy with dried urine and/or saliva samples. 

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These tests are useful for those with concerns of chronic fatigue, adrenal exhaustion, PCOS, acne, period-related issues, insomnia, weight gain, low sex drive, infertility, PMS, hormonal cancer concerns, migraines and depression/anxiety.

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There are dietary, supplement and medication restrictions for these tests, so it's important to read the instructions fully prior to testing. 

The Cortisol Awakening Response (CAR) to assess stress and sleep patterns is also available on its own for $279 NZ. 

Organic Acids Testing (O.A.T.)

The Organic Acids Test (OAT) offers a comprehensive metabolic snapshot of a patient’s overall health with over 70 markers. 

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It can give an evaluation of:

  • Intestinal yeast and bacteria (certain markers are associated with irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, neuropsychiatric disorders, autism, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, and more)

  • Vitamin and mineral levels

  • Oxidative Stress and antioxidant levels (indicator of chronic inflammation and ability to detoxify effectively)

  • Neurotransmitter levels (impacts brain, nervous system and mood)

  • Oxalate levels (high levels are associated with kidney stones, vulvodynia and oxalate toxicity symptoms)

  • Fatty acid metabolism (high level of fatty acids metabolites can indicate protein malnutrition, type I diabetes, severe GI Candida overgrowth, various genetic disorders, and cause low blood sugar and lethargy)

  • Mitochondrial function (mitochondria are our energy powerhouse)

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It is therefore particularly useful for those with:

  • Chronic fatigue

  • Chronic pain and inflammation

  • Fibromyalgia

  • Gut or digestive issues

  • Depression and/or anxiety

  • Autism

  • ADD/DHD

  • Neuropsychiatric or behavioural disorders 

  • Seizure disorders

  • Kidney stones, vulvodynia, chronic joint pain and other symptoms of oxalate toxicity

  • Brain fog or poor concentration/focus

  • Chronic headaches and migraines

  • Suspected Clostridia infection

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Environmental & Mould toxicity tests

Mycotoxins

The GPL-MycoTOX screens for eleven different mycotoxins, from 40 species of mould, in one urine sample.

Mycotoxins are some of the most prevalent toxins in the environment. Mycotoxins are metabolites produced by fungi like mould, which can infest buildings, vehicles, and foodstuffs. A majority of mycotoxin exposures are through food ingestion or airborne exposure.

A wide range of disorders and symptoms may be linked to mycotoxin exposure. Some include:

  • Fibromyalgia and chronic pain

  • Chronic fatigue

  • Headaches

  • Allergies

  • Seizures

  • Chronic sinus issues

  • Asthma

  • Irritable bowel syndrome

Mould on wall in a home
Pollution from factory smoke
Non-metal chemical toxicity

The GPL - TOX urine test screens for 172 different environmental pollutants using 18 different metabolites. It includes Tiglylglycine, a marker for mitochondrial damage, which is often seen in chronic toxic chemical exposure.

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GPL-Tox is recommended for a large range of disorders, but particularly:

  • Alzheimer’s Disease

  • Amyotrophic Lacteroclerosis (ALS)

  • Arthritis

  • Asthma

  • Attention deficit (ADD) and with hyperactivity (ADHD)

  • Autism

  • Autoimmune disorders

  • Cancer

  • Chronic fatigue syndrome

  • Crohn’s disease

  • Developmental and learning disabilities

  • Epilepsy

  • Fibromyalgia

  • Irritable bowel syndrome

  • Mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, OCD, Schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder

  • Mitochondrial disorders

  • Multiple sclerosis

  • Parkinson’s disease

  • Peripheral neuropathy - weakness, numbness/tingling and pain in feet and/or hands.

  • Seizure disorder

  • Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)

  • Tic disorders

  • Tourette syndrome

  • Ulcerative colitis

These tests are commonly combined with the Organic Acids Test (O.A.T.)

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Test instructions are the same as for O.A.T. (See above).

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Add on glyphosate for $111 if ordered with O.A.T. or GPL-Tox.

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GOT QUESTIONS ON WHICH TEST OR SERVICE IS RIGHT FOR YOU? Then please email us at info@cherishchiropractic.co.nz or book a free discovery consult (selecting the video call option)...

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