Tess Ström
NUTRITION & FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE
Functional Testing
EVIDENCE BASED SUPPORT
Personalised Insights Into Digestion, Hormones & Metabolism
Functional testing allows a detailed look at how the body is functioning across key systems, including digestion, hormones, metabolism, and stress response. These tests provide additional insight beyond standard bloodwork, helping to understand patterns that may be linked to ongoing symptoms and guiding personalised nutrition and lifestyle support. The tests listed here are some of the most commonly used, though additional assessments may be recommended where relevant to an individual's needs.
All tests are used to support understanding and management of health. They do not replace medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Functional DX Femme Inspect and Man Inspect
Femme Inspect and Man Inspect are comprehensive blood chemistry panels that provide a broad overview of hormonal and metabolic health. They assess markers relating to sex hormones, thyroid function, blood sugar regulation, cardiovascular risk, inflammation, liver function, and nutrient status using functional reference ranges. These panels are useful for exploring ongoing symptoms such as fatigue, hormonal changes, weight concerns, low mood, or reduced resilience, supporting a whole-body perspective.
GI-Effect Comprehensive Stool Test
The GI-Effect is an in-depth stool test that examines digestive function, gut inflammation, immune activity, and the balance of the microbiome. It includes markers of digestion and absorption, beneficial and opportunistic bacteria, yeast and parasites, and inflammatory indicators. This test is useful when working with ongoing digestive symptoms, immune-related concerns, or unexplained inflammation, providing insight to guide nutrition and lifestyle support.
GI-MAP (Gastrointestinal Microbial Assay Plus)
The GI-MAP is a DNA-based stool test that identifies and quantifies bacteria, parasites, fungi, and viruses using PCR technology. It also measures markers of gut inflammation and immune response. It is particularly useful for persistent or complex digestive symptoms, post-infectious issues, or when detailed microbial information is needed to support a personalised plan.
DUTCH Complete
The DUTCH Complete is a dried urine test that provides detailed information on sex hormones, adrenal hormones, and hormone metabolism. It can offer insight into patterns relevant for menstrual cycle concerns, perimenopause or menopause symptoms, low energy, sleep disruption, or mood changes. This test complements blood testing when symptoms persist or when a more detailed view of hormone metabolism is needed.
DUTCH Adrenal Test
The DUTCH Adrenal Test assesses cortisol and cortisone patterns throughout the day, providing insight into how the body responds to stress. It can help identify patterns linked to fatigue, sleep issues, low resilience, or blood sugar variability. Results support personalised nutrition, lifestyle, and stress-management approaches.
Thyroid Plus (Genova Diagnostics)
Thyroid Plus is a comprehensive blood test assessing thyroid hormones, thyroid antibodies, and key nutrients involved in thyroid function. It provides insight into thyroid output, hormone conversion, and autoimmune activity. This test is useful for exploring symptoms such as fatigue, weight changes, cold sensitivity, low mood, or brain fog, supporting personalised nutrition and lifestyle strategies.
Metabolomix+
Metabolomix+ is a functional nutrition test assessing organic acids, amino acids, fatty acids, and key nutrient markers. It offers insight into cellular metabolism, mitochondrial function, neurotransmitter activity, detoxification pathways, and gut-related metabolic patterns. This test is useful when addressing low energy, cognitive concerns, mood changes, or potential nutritional imbalances.
Firstbeat HRV
Firstbeat HRV is a non-invasive assessment of heart rate variability, reflecting autonomic nervous system balance. It provides information on stress load, recovery, sleep quality, and daily physiological demands. This test can inform personalised recommendations for sleep, workload, and recovery, particularly for busy professionals or amateur endurance athletes managing ongoing stress or fatigue.
Lingo Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM)
Lingo CGM tracks blood glucose in real time, showing how food, exercise, sleep, and stress influence glucose patterns. It highlights variability rather than single measurements. This data supports understanding how lifestyle factors affect energy levels and blood sugar, allowing personalised adjustments to nutrition and daily routines.