With our healthcare system continuing to struggle under increasing pressure, more people than ever are exploring new ways they can better manage and maintain their own health.
Subsequently, the demand for health testing has never been higher. But with so many options to choose from, the process can be mind boggling. So, we asked our experts to help demystify the health test minefield, and share their expert knowledge on which they recommend and why.
What are the benefits of health testing?
Said Lekita Davies, Naturopath in Marlow, “My clients test for a variety of reasons. Most are experiencing ongoing health issues so testing is a really useful tool to help remove the guess work and get to the root cause of what’s actually going on. Other reasons people test include:
- Seeking reassurance of a health MOT
- Suspect something isn’t right and wish to delve deeper
- Have complex health needs and come with previous test results from their GP/specialist
- Want more thorough testing than what is available on the NHS
Which health tests?
Said Caroline Barton, Nutritional Therapist in Beaconsfield, “It’s important to define exactly what you are testing for and why. I recommend:
- The Dutch test – a urine test which is very accurate and useful for looking at female hormones and stress
- Baseline health marker – a blood test that highlights any nutritional, thyroid or hormone issues
- Vitamin D – simple finger prick test to assess levels
- Genetic Variability – the effective genes for your health so we can find the correct dietary approach going forward
Adele Wimsett, Women’s Health Practitioner, said. “I offer functional tests including adrenal function, hair mineral testing, gut testing and full panel thyroid to help women understand the underlying factors that contribute to symptoms. This then allows us to create a bespoke, evidence-based plan to address individual health needs.”
Richa Puri, Pharmacist & Fertility Specialist, says, “My view is always ‘test – don’t guess’. Unfortunately a lot of tests are not available on the NHS. However, if you are struggling to conceive, have recurrent miscarriage or are having IVF (or failed IVF attempts in the past), testing helps give a more accurate picture of what is going on.”
And Michelle Smith, Seed’s Nutritional Therapist in Marlow, said, “Functional testing can be hugely helpful in foraging the root cause of a client’s symptoms or condition. Testing is therefore highly personalised to every individual’s relevant needs. In my practice, I use a variety of tests including stool analysis to better understand gut function, a urine test to look at adrenal balance or organic acids to measure overall nutrient status and metabolic health. I also work alongside a client’s GP in order to recommend a number of blood tests that they may be willing to carry out.”
Can I do the tests myself?
Said Lekita, “While some tests are simple to use and can be done at home, most are more complex and you will need a practitioner or nurse to help. Also, interpreting the results can be tricky so it is better to work with a professional who knows how to read them, what they may mean and the best route forward from there to improve health outcomes.”
How much do they cost?
Costs of tests vary extensively, from £100 upwards. Your practitioner will help you choose what test is right for you within your budget.
For more information contact our practitioners as follows:
Caroline Barton, Nutritional Therapist (Beaconsfield) – www.seedwellness.co.uk/carolinebarton
Lekita Davies, Naturopath – www.seedwellness.co.uk/lekitadavies
Richa Puri, Fertility Nutritionist – www.seedwellness.co.uk/richapuri
Adele Wimsett, Women’s Health Practitioner – www.seedwellness.co.uk/adelewimsett
Michelle Smith – Nutritional Therapist (Marlow) – www.seedwellness.co.uk/michellesmith
