
Advanced Functional Testing
Rather than relying on guesswork, I may recommend tests to help us understand what is happening in your body—such as checking nutrient levels, gut health, hormones, and, in some cases, genetic factors. This can be useful because the same symptoms can have different causes, and what helps one person may not help another. Test results help us focus on the most relevant areas first, so your plan is clearer, more targeted, and better matched to your needs. Please note that laboratory tests and supplements are not included in the consultation fee.
Any testing we do is guided by your symptoms, history and goals, and we only use what is likely to add useful clarity. The main tests I use are as follows:
Nutrient status blood test — A blood test checks key markers linked to mood, energy and brain function—such as iron/ferritin, vitamin B12, folate, vitamin D, omega-3 status, zinc and copper—and is the most common test I recommend.
Genetic profiling (LifeCode Gx) — This looks at common genetic variations (SNPs) that can influence how you process nutrients and respond to stress, inflammation and hormones, helping us personalise nutrition and supplement support.
Comprehensive stool analysis (Invivo) — This test assesses digestion, absorption, microbiome balance and gut inflammation, and can help identify gut drivers of symptoms such as bloating, IBS-type issues, skin problems, low mood and fatigue.
SIBO breath test — Usually a breath test, this measures hydrogen and methane gases to assess bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine, which can contribute to bloating, abdominal pain, reflux, IBS-type symptoms and nutrient malabsorption.
Organic acids test (Genova Diagnostics) — A urine test that gives a snapshot of energy production, detoxification, oxidative stress and neurotransmitter-related markers, helping fine-tune nutrition and supplements for fatigue, brain fog and mood changes.
KPU urine test (AONM) — A urine test that looks for a biochemical pattern associated with higher demand for nutrients such as vitamin B6 and zinc, which may be relevant for anxiety, mood instability and poor stress tolerance.
Hair mineral analysis (Mineral State) — This assesses longer-term patterns of mineral balance (and possible metal exposure) by measuring what is deposited in hair as it grows, which can be relevant for mood, energy and resilience.