Testing That Actually Helps Us Ask Better Questions
I don't order tests just to circle everything that is red. A test is only useful when it helps us understand your specific story better — what has already been tried, how your body has responded, and where the most useful next step might be. Most people start with a focused set of foundational tests. We only move into more specialized testing when the history and initial results suggest it will add meaningful information.
Cost is always discussed before anything is ordered. Testing is optional and chosen together.
Foundational Testing
The place we usually begin.
GI-MAP Stool Test (and other quality DNA-based stool tests)
The GI-MAP is a DNA-based stool test that looks at bacteria, opportunistic organisms, potential pathogens, parasites, fungi, digestive markers, inflammation markers, and immune activity in the gut (including secretory IgA).
I also use other high-quality stool tests when they better match a particular situation. The goal is never to chase every organism on the report. An organism or marker only becomes useful when it fits the pattern of your symptoms, history, and response to previous approaches. We read the results in context, not in isolation.
MRT – Mediator Release Test (primary food sensitivity test)
The MRT is my preferred food sensitivity test. Unlike simple IgG panels, it measures the actual inflammatory response (mediator release) to a wide range of foods and chemicals. This helps us identify which foods may be contributing to immune activation and symptoms, so we can make more precise, temporary adjustments rather than relying on long-term guesswork or overly broad elimination diets.
Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis (HTMA)
HTMA gives us a longer-term window into mineral patterns and certain toxic elements stored in tissue. Minerals influence energy production, nervous system function, hormone metabolism, and detoxification capacity. Looking at ratios and patterns (not just individual numbers) helps us understand the terrain your body has been working in over the previous months.
Comprehensive Blood Chemistry
I use a broader blood chemistry panel than the standard annual labs most people receive. This typically includes:
- A full thyroid panel (not just TSH) so we can see how the system is actually functioning
- A more complete view of cholesterol and related markers, read in context rather than as isolated “good” or “bad” numbers
- A full iron panel (not just ferritin or hemoglobin)
- A wider blood sugar picture: fasting glucose, HbA1c, and fasting insulin
- Homocysteine
- Other markers that help reveal patterns in inflammation, nutrient status, and metabolic function
The emphasis is always on patterns across multiple markers, not on any single number being “high” or “low.”
When We Go Further
Once we have the foundational picture, or when someone is already further along in their journey, we may discuss more specialized testing based on what the history and initial results suggest. Examples include:
- Vibrant Wellness Zoomers (for more detailed peptide-level reactivity)
- DUTCH hormone testing
- Expanded hormone panels (such as those from DiagnosTechs)
- 3X4 Genetics
- Home or professional mold and environmental toxin testing
- Other targeted assessments when clinically relevant
These are never automatic. We only add them when they are likely to change what we do next.
How I Approach Testing Overall
Most people can get quite far with a thoughtful combination of history + foundational testing. We start there unless your situation clearly calls for something more specific from the beginning. Every test is chosen to answer a real question, not to create a longer list of things to fix.
Related Reading
The Labs Came Back Fine. You Did Not.
Why “normal” ranges might be failing you, and what functional ranges reveal instead.
Understanding GI Mapping for Optimal Gut Health
A closer look at what a GI-MAP stool analysis can reveal about your gut ecosystem.
Getting to the Root Cause: Key Tests for GI Symptoms
Which tests help uncover the source of digestive symptoms, and how to use them well.
Still Struggling With Hormones? It Might Be Your Gut Talking
How gut health and hormone balance are connected, and where testing fits in.
Gut Issues, IBS, and the Nervous System
The gut–nervous system connection and why stress matters when interpreting digestive symptoms.
The Power of Hair Analysis for Health Clarity
What HTMA can reveal about mineral patterns, stress response, and metabolic trends.
Curious whether testing is the right next step?
Start with a free conversation. We'll look at your history together and decide whether testing would add useful information.
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