Functional Lab Tests Explained: Gut, Hormones, and More
- Dr. Teresa True
- Nov 10
- 3 min read
If your labs keep coming back “normal” but you still do not feel right, you need better data. Functional lab testing looks at how your body works, not only whether a disease is present. This guide pulls our most useful articles into one place so you can learn what to test, why it matters, and how to order labs directly.
Quick links
What is functional lab testing
Functional testing evaluates digestion, microbiome balance, hormones, stress response, nutrient status, and inflammation patterns. It explains symptoms like bloating, constipation, loose stools, fatigue, sleep problems, skin flares, and weight changes when routine panels are not helpful.
Keywords to help readers find this page
functional lab testing, direct order lab testing, digestive health test, stool testing, microbiome testing, hormone testing, cortisol testing, thyroid labs, inflammation markers, functional medicine Portland, functional medicine online
Digestive health testing
If you have bloating, constipation, or diarrhea and standard tests are fine, look at function. Comprehensive stool analysis reports on pancreatic elastase, calprotectin, short-chain fatty acids, yeast or bacterial overgrowth, and gut barrier markers. Food Sensitivity Testing can help identify foods that are creating inflammation and contributing to skin rashes, digestive problems and more.
Stress and cortisol testing
Stress can flatten your energy curve, wreck sleep, and push cravings. A diurnal cortisol test shows how your stress response changes across the day. We match the pattern with sleep hygiene, nutrients, and targeted adaptogens.
Hormone testing
Cycle issues, PMS, irregular periods, perimenopause, or low libido need a broader look. Paired hormone and metabolite testing explains how you are making, converting, and clearing hormones. This guides dosing, timing, and non-drug support.
Inflammation and recovery
Pain without a clear injury, slow recovery after illness, or flares tied to stress may reflect an inflammatory pattern that routine labs do not catch. Combine targeted markers with simple tools like hydrotherapy to move circulation and lymph.
Metabolism and energy
Weight changes are not only calories in and out. We always look at thyroid, iron status, B vitamins, fasting insulin, and liver function. MIC can support fat metabolism and methylation alongside diet and movement.
How to order labs
You can order many tests directly from our clinic’s Functional Labs page. Each listing shows what the test measures, who it helps, price, and options for interpretation. Oregon and Washington patients can book full medical visits. Out of state clients can request a results review for wellness education.
What to test first - Our Top Picks
Digestive symptoms → comprehensive stool test
Unrefreshing sleep, wired and tired, afternoon crash → diurnal cortisol
Cycle symptoms or perimenopause changes → combined hormone panel with metabolites
Brain fog, hair loss, cold intolerance → thyroid panel with iron studies and B12
Autoimmune symptoms → wellness panel to assess nutrition + stool if gut symptoms are present
What to expect from results
You will see patterns that explain your symptoms and a plan that targets the cause. That plan usually includes food, targeted supplements, stress work, and foundational lifestyle changes. We keep it realistic and measurable.
Disclaimer:
The entire contents of this website are based upon the opinions of physicians at Pacific Clinic of Natural Medicine, unless otherwise noted. Individual articles are based upon the opinions of the respective author, who retains copyright as marked. The information on this website is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional and is not intended as medical advice. It is intended as a sharing of knowledge and information from the research and experience of our physicians and their community. PCNM encourages you to make your own health care decisions based upon your research and in partnership with a qualified health care professional. If you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition, consult your health care professional before using products based on this content.
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