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Naturopathic laboratory testing and functional medicine

Laboratory Testing

Objective data to guide your treatment.

Functional and conventional laboratory testing provides a deeper understanding of your health, from hormones and gut health to infections, heavy metals, mold exposure, nutrition, inflammation, and metabolic function. Testing gives me the objective data I need to build targeted treatment plans.

I order the same bloodwork your medical doctor would (thyroid panels, metabolic markers, nutrient levels) and supplement it with functional testing that goes deeper. Studies suggest that standard reference ranges miss subclinical imbalances in up to 20% of patients who present with symptoms. When standard labs say everything is 'normal' but you still feel unwell, functional testing often reveals what's been missed.

My approach to testing is strategic, not excessive. Every test I order has a clear clinical purpose: to confirm a diagnosis, identify a root cause, or guide treatment decisions like detox protocols or hormone therapy. I'll explain what I'm testing for, why it matters, and what the results mean in plain language.

As the Institute for Functional Medicine states: 'Comprehensive lab testing is the cornerstone of personalized medicine. It allows clinicians to move beyond symptom management to root-cause resolution.' Whether it's food sensitivity testing to resolve persistent gut symptoms, a comprehensive hormone panel to understand your hormonal landscape, or heavy metals testing to investigate unexplained neurological symptoms, the right lab work transforms guesswork into precision medicine.

Why Laboratory Testing

Root-Cause Insight

Functional testing reveals imbalances and root causes that standard bloodwork often misses.

Strategic Testing

Every test ordered has a clear clinical purpose, with no unnecessary panels or wasteful testing.

Precision Treatment

Lab data transforms your treatment plan from educated guessing into targeted, evidence-based medicine.

IV therapy chairs at Dr. Kefferputz's naturopathic office on Salt Spring Island

A full toolkit,used selectively.

From standard bloodwork to advanced functional panels, I use the right test for your situation. Tap any test to learn more.

Functional Tests

Conventional Tests

Thyroid Panel

Identifies thyroid dysfunction, including autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto's or Graves' disease.

Blood Sugar Assessments (Including Fasting Insulin)

Detects insulin resistance, prediabetes, and metabolic imbalances before they progress.

Iron and Vitamin B12 Levels

Essential for energy, cognition, and red blood cell function; helps diagnose anemia and fatigue-related conditions.

Vitamin D Levels

Critical for immune function, bone health, and mood regulation; deficiency is common and easily corrected.

Comprehensive Bloodwork (Liver, Kidney, White Blood Cells, etc)

Evaluates organ function, hydration, and overall metabolic health.

Celiac Disease Testing

Identifies immune reactions to gluten that may be driving digestive distress or inflammation.

Parasitology Testing

Detects hidden infections in the gut that may impact digestion, immunity, and energy levels.

Autoimmune Markers

Helps diagnose conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and other inflammatory disorders.

Electrolyte Panel

Assesses hydration, heart function, muscle health, and nervous system balance.

Nutritional Deficiency

Magnesium (RBC)

Measures magnesium stored inside red blood cells, a far more accurate marker than standard serum tests.

Zinc & Copper Panel

Evaluates the balance between zinc and copper, both essential for immune function and wound healing.

Omega-3 Index

Measures EPA and DHA levels in red blood cell membranes, a validated marker of cardiovascular health.

Comprehensive Micronutrient Panel

Intracellular testing of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and amino acids to catch deficiencies early.

Vitamin A, E & K Panel

Assesses fat-soluble vitamin status, important for immune function, bone health, and cardiovascular protection.

Treatment room at Dr. Kefferputz's naturopathic office on Salt Spring Island

Common Reasons for Lab Testing

✦Unexplained Fatigue & Low Energy

◇Digestive Issues (Bloating, IBS, SIBO)

○Hormonal Imbalances & Menopause

△Thyroid Dysfunction (Hashimoto's, Graves')

◦Autoimmune Conditions

✧Heavy Metal & Mold Exposure

⬡Food Sensitivities & Intolerances

◈Nutrient Deficiencies

✦Chronic & Recurring Infections

◇Metabolic & Blood Sugar Disorders

○Adrenal Fatigue & Burnout

△Skin Conditions (Eczema, Acne, Psoriasis)

◦Brain Fog & Cognitive Decline

✧Weight Loss Resistance

⬡Mood Disorders (Anxiety, Depression)

◈Chronic Pain & Inflammation

✦Fertility & Preconception Health

◇Post-Viral Recovery (Long COVID)

Ready to get started?

Book a consultation and I'll build a treatment plan tailored to your health goals.