Functional Testing: Deeper Insights to Support Your Health
Functional testing can offer a clearer picture of what’s happening inside your body when symptoms aren’t resolving, standard blood tests look “normal”, or you want a more personalised approach to your health.
These tests aren’t about diagnosing conditions, they’re about understanding patterns, imbalances and nutritional needs that can help guide your wellness journey.
Below, you’ll find a range of tests I offer as part of my nutrition consultations, each explained in plain English so you know exactly what they look for, when they’re useful, and how they complement standard GP care.
Why Consider Functional Testing?
Many people turn to functional tests because they:
-
Have symptoms, and they aren't getting clear answers
-
Feel 'not quite right' even when GP tests show normal results
-
Want to explore deeper drivers behind energy, digestion, hormones or metabolism
-
Prefer proactive, personalised support rather than a one-size-fits-all approach
-
Want to understand how nutrition, stress and lifestyle are affecting their physiology
Functional tests can be invaluable for persistent digestive issues, hormonal symptoms, low energy, skin flare-ups, nutrient imbalances, unexplained weight changes, or long-term feeling “off-balance”.
How I Use Functional Testing in My Practice
Functional testing is never used in isolation. Results mean most when interpreted alongside:
-
Your health history
-
Your symptoms
-
Your diet and lifestyle
-
Your stress levels, sleep and routines
Together, these pieces help us build a clearer picture of what your body needs, and which nutrition or lifestyle steps could support you. If testing is appropriate, I’ll guide you through the process, help you choose the right panel, explain preparation steps, and interpret your results with you in a consultation.
Types of Tests Available
Do You Need a Test? Not Always.
Not every client requires testing.
For many people, meaningful progress can be made through a thorough consultation, diet review and lifestyle adjustments.
Testing simply adds deeper insight when:
-
Symptoms don’t improve with the first steps
-
You want clarity rather than guesswork
-
GP tests haven't identified the cause
-
Multiple systems (gut, hormones, energy) are involved
-
You want personalised information tailored to you
If you’re uncertain, I’ll help you decide whether testing is worthwhile - or whether a different starting point might serve you better.
Unsure Which Test Is Right for You?
If you’d like guidance on whether functional testing could help, or you want to discuss your symptoms before choosing a test, you can book a free call with me using the link below. Sometimes the best first step is simply talking things through.
Let's Talk
If you'd like personalised support interpreting your symptoms without all the background noise of social media trends and must-take supplements then let's talk.
Book a free introductory call with me. We can have a chat about how you are feeling now and what your main concerns are. But most importantly we can talk about what you'd like to get out of working together and how you'd like to feel.
There is no obligation to work with me following this call but it's a great opportunity to have an informal chat and ask any questions about my Nutritional Therapy programme before committing.
Book in using the calendar shown and if there aren't any dates or times that suit you drop me an email to louise@louisegouldingnutrition.co.uk