Functional testing
Functional testing, as employed in functional medicine and nutritional therapy, offers unparalleled insights into an individual’s internal biochemistry by identifying subtle imbalances. This empowers a personalised, preventative, and root-cause-oriented approach to achieving optimal health and vitality.



Functional testing reveals cause-effect dynamics in the body
The significance of functional testing in functional medicine and nutritional therapy throughout the body is intrinsically linked to the wellbeing of the gut and its microbiome. The relationship between gut microbes and their human host is symbiotic and dynamic.
The scientific literature now connects a dysbiotic or imbalanced gut microbiome with a range of disease states, both gastrointestinal and systemic. The diverse metabolic activities of the microbiome exert a profound influence on the human body, while the host’s lifestyle and environment, in turn, shape the health of their microbiota.
Here are the key reasons why early-stage functional testing provides a superior pathway to precise and effective health interventions.
Offers crucial insights into the underlying causes of a variety of gastrointestinal and systemic conditions, including:
- Diabetes
- Weight fluctuations (both gain and loss)
- Musculoskeletal aches
- Gastrointestinal complaints (bloating, abdominal pain, cramping, diarrhoea, constipation)
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
- Fertility challenges
- History of extensive antibiotic exposure
Recommended for clients experiencing complex, unresolved symptoms unresponsive to standard treatment protocols, such as:
- Persistent digestive disorders (IBS, IBD, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease)
- Autoimmune conditions (e.g. rheumatoid arthritis, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, eczema, psoriasis)
- Cognitive and neurological symptoms (anxiety, brain fog, gut-brain axis dysfunction)
- Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
- Post-viral syndromes, including Long Covid
- Histamine intolerance and multiple unresolved food intolerances
- Metabolic syndrome and weight loss resistance
By examining genetic traits (e.g. nutrient metabolism), microbial composition (e.g. inflammation, dysbiosis), and immune responses to foods, it offers a comprehensive, 360-degree and highly individualised perspective on health. Particularly useful in complex, multi-system presentations where standard approaches have proven insufficient:
- Chronic gastrointestinal disorders (e.g. IBS, IBD, UC, Crohn’s, SIBO, leaky gut)
- Digestive discomfort (bloating, gas, indigestion, intolerances)
- Fungal overgrowth (e.g. Candida)
- Recurrent headaches or migraines
- Neurotransmitter imbalances (e.g. ADHD, mood disorders)
- Weight regulation challenges and metabolic dysfunction (e.g. insulin resistance)
- Autoimmune conditions
- Inflammatory joint conditions
Incorporates both blood and urine analysis, examines over 125 biomarkers and evaluates the body’s functional demand for key nutrients, including antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, essential fatty acids, and digestive cofactors. Indicated in the following circumstances:
- Cardiovascular risk
- Obesity, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes
- Chronic fatigue
- Weight management and dietary optimisation
- Malnutrition (notably in elderly populations)
- Maldigestion and malabsorption
- Suspected toxic exposure
This assessment is suitable for individuals experiencing delayed, non-acute reactions to specific foods, typically manifesting hours to days post-ingestion:
- Chronic digestive symptoms (bloating, flatulence, constipation)
- Headaches and migraines (especially when food-related)
- Dermatological issues (e.g. acne, eczema, psoriasis)
- Persistent fatigue or cognitive sluggishness
- Musculoskeletal pain or systemic inflammation
- Mood disturbances (e.g. anxiety, irritability)
- Chronic sinus congestion or post-nasal drip