Functional testing goes beyond standard lab work by showing how your body is actually functioning—not just whether something is clinically "wrong." These tests look at how well your systems are working, and can often catch imbalances before they turn into bigger health problems.
If you’re dealing with long-standing symptoms, unexplained health issues, or just want to optimize how you feel and function, functional testing offers a deeper view.
Below are some of the most useful functional tests—what they’re for, what they measure, and when they might be worth considering.
1. 🦠 Stool Test (Comprehensive Stool Analysis)
A detailed look at what's happening inside your gut.
Looks at:
- Digestion, gut bacteria, parasites, yeast, inflammation
Useful for:
- Bloating, gas, IBS, constipation or diarrhea
- Skin issues (acne, eczema), fatigue, autoimmune conditions
- Suspected candida or gut imbalance
2. ⚙️ Organic Acids Test (OAT)
A snapshot of your metabolism and internal chemistry, based on urine markers.
Looks at:
- Energy production, B-vitamins, neurotransmitters, detox, gut microbes
Useful for:
- Brain fog, low energy, anxiety or depression
- ADHD, autism, mood swings
- Suspected mold or chemical exposure
3. 🔁 Hormone Panel (DUTCH or saliva test)
Measures hormones and their breakdown pathways to assess balance and stress.
Looks at:
- Cortisol (stress), estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, melatonin
Useful for:
- Fatigue, low libido, PMS or menopause symptoms
- Irregular cycles, fertility issues
- Sleep problems, mood swings
4. 🧪 Micronutrient Testing
Checks for deficiencies that may not show up on routine blood tests.
Looks at:
- Vitamins, minerals, amino acids, fatty acids, antioxidants
Useful for:
- Fatigue, brain fog, poor recovery, brittle nails
- Malabsorption (e.g., celiac, Crohn’s)
- Chronic illness or a restricted diet
5. 🍞 Food Sensitivity Test (IgG/Intolerance)
Identifies foods that may be triggering low-grade inflammation or delayed reactions.
Looks at:
- Delayed food reactions, inflammation triggers
Useful for:
- Digestive issues, skin rashes, migraines
- Joint pain, fatigue after meals
- Autoimmune flares
🔸 Not the same as an allergy test (IgE)
6. 🧬 Genetic & Methylation Testing
Explores your genetic blueprint and how your body processes nutrients, stress, and toxins.
Looks at:
- MTHFR, COMT, detox genes, neurotransmitter pathways, nutrient needs
Useful for:
- Family history of illness
- Sensitivity to stress, alcohol, or medications
- Brain chemistry, mental health, or fertility concerns
7. 🧯 Heavy Metal Test
Measures toxic metals stored in the body that may interfere with nerves, energy, and immunity.
Looks at:
- Mercury, lead, arsenic, aluminum
- Detox ability and mineral balance
Useful for:
- Memory issues, tingling, chronic fatigue
- Autoimmune symptoms
- High fish consumption or metal fillings
8. 🌫️ Mold & Mycotoxin Test
Checks for toxic mold exposure using urine samples.
Looks at:
- Mold toxins and their impact on the immune and nervous system
Useful for:
- Brain fog, sinus issues, anxiety
- Poor sleep, fatigue
- History of living in a water-damaged home
9. ☣️ Environmental Toxins Test
Screens for chemicals commonly found in plastics, pesticides, and household products.
Looks at:
- BPA, phthalates, glyphosate, VOCs
Useful for:
- Hormone problems, infertility, fatigue
- Skin issues, chemical sensitivity
- High chemical exposure from work or products
10. ❤️ Cardiometabolic & Inflammation Panel
Goes beyond basic cholesterol testing to assess inflammation, blood sugar, and heart risk.
Looks at:
- Blood sugar, insulin, cholesterol, inflammation markers
Useful for:
- Diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease risk
- Belly fat, fatigue
- Preventive health checkups
When Should You Consider Functional Testing?
You don’t have to be sick to benefit. These tests can be helpful if you:
✅ Have ongoing symptoms but normal blood tests
✅ Feel tired, anxious, or mentally foggy without a clear reason
✅ Want to understand your body better and prevent future issues
✅ Are planning a pregnancy or working on fertility
✅ Have a history of chronic illness, autoimmunity, or chemical sensitivity
Final Tip: Don’t Go It Alone
Functional tests offer incredible insight, but interpreting them isn’t always straightforward. High or low markers don’t always mean something is “bad”—they need to be viewed in the context of your symptoms, lifestyle, and overall health picture.
That’s why it’s essential to work with a practitioner who is trained in functional or integrative medicine. They can:
- Help you choose the right test(s) for your specific symptoms
- Interpret the results holistically
- Create a personalized plan that includes diet, lifestyle, targeted supplements, and follow-up
- Prevent over-testing or unnecessary treatments
Remember, functional testing is not about chasing numbers, but about understanding how your body functions and what it needs to heal, perform, and thrive.