Hair metal and minerals test
Scalp hair element levels are correlated to human systemic levels. Unlike blood, hair element levels are not controlled by homeostatic mechanisms. Therefore, deviations in hair element levels frequently appear before the obvious symptoms and can be an essential preliminary tool for foreseeing the development of physiological symptoms. Scalp hair is easy to sample, it contains a “temporal record” of element metabolism and exposure to toxic elements. Hair test analyzes elements such magnesium, chromium, zinc, copper, selenium, and others. The hair test is essential in determining:
- If metal toxins or mineral deficiency is contributing to the disorder
- Monitor the effects of chelation (elimination of heavy metals from the body)
- Identify if supplementation of minerals may bring substantial improvements
Specimen requirements: Hair (source head : 0.25 grams (approximately one tablespoon) of hair is the absolute minimum. 1 gram is preferred.
The porphyrin test
The porphyrin test is a potent biomarker of environmental toxicity. When certain chemicals are present in the body particular porphyrins build up and a distinctive pattern of porphyrins specific to each toxin is produced. Common toxins which affect porphyrin metabolism include lead, mercury, arsenic, cadmium, hexachlorobenzene and dioxins. Several health disorders have abnormal porphyrin levels associated with chemical exposure including chronic fatigue, multiple chemical sensitivities, learning and behavioral disorders as well as mental health conditions. Multiple studies have recently revealed that autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is also associated with abnormal patterns of porphyrin production.
Specimen requirements: 10 mL of urine collected and poured into an amber vial with no additive.
The Organic Acids Test (OAT) offers a complete metabolic snapshot of a patient’s overall health with 74 markers. It provides an accurate evaluation of intestinal yeast and bacteria. Organic Acids Test also includes markers for vitamin and mineral levels, oxidative stress, neurotransmitter levels, and markers for oxalates, which are highly correlated with many chronic illnesses.
Specimen requirements: Urine: 10 mL of first-morning urine before food or drink is recommended
The Comprehensive Stool Analysis detects the existence of pathogenic microorganisms such as yeast, parasites, and bacteria. If such pathogens are detected, It provides helpful information about prescription and natural agents effective against specific strains identified in the sample. The test also evaluates beneficial bacteria levels, intestinal immune function, overall intestinal health, and inflammation markers.
Specimen requirements: Stool sample collection on two separate days (at least 12 hours apart).
IgG (immunoglobulin G) test helps in identifying foods for elimination diet that may relieve symptoms of many chronic neurological and gastrointestinal disorders. IgG antibodies serve as a first line of defense against infection, but do not release histamine or produce the familiar instant responses such as itching, hives, flushing, or sneezing related with classic IgE allergic reactions. In contrast, IgG antibodies may have elusive immune effects such as bloating, nausea, headaches, mood changes, fatigue or unwanted behaviors. Elimination of IgG-positive foods can improve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, autism, ADHD, cystic fibrosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and epilepsy, according to several clinical studies.
Specimen requirements: Dried Blood Spot (DBS) – five full circles of dried blood on the protein saver card is required.
Saliva testing is the most useful, accurate and least invasive way to measure patients’ hormone status. It is often difficult for healthcare providers to assess precise hormone levels with serum as it contains both bound and unbound hormones. Hormones are vital to our overall wellbeing. Being able to detect a hormonal imbalance is essential to design an effective treatment plan.
The primary sex hormones are being tested: estradiol, progesterone, testosterone, estrone, and estriol. Furthermore, test assess patient’s adrenal hormones such DHEA and cortisol. These seven hormones provide essential information about deficiencies, excesses and daily patterns, which then result in a precisely tailored treatment approach.
Specimen requirements: 3/4 Saliva Tube Full x 4