The Significance of (Functional)Testing for Autoimmunity
Functional testing can be used as a powerful tool, offering a glimpse into the current status of your body's systems and organs. While conventional blood tests from your General Practitioner (GP) can provide general markers and nutrient levels, I can give you access to both functional and more specific blood tests. These specialised tests can identify potential antibodies to foods, toxins or your own tissues and provide indicators of systemic inflammation or dysbiosis. Crucially, I can offer you access to tests assessing the presence of a ‘leaky gut’ and uncovering food sensitivities. This scientific precision transforms the process of identifying root causes behind your autoimmunity from mere speculation to a strategic investigation.
Below, you will find a comprehensive, yet not an exhaustive, list of some of the tests useful for individuals dealing with autoimmunity. Most of the below tests are provided by the Vibrant Wellness lab based in CA, USA and can be viewed and ordered through my online shop.
Please note that all tests will be done as part of a Programme; however, test costs are separate. Get in touch with me to find out more about specific tests or book your free 30-minute Exploratory Chat to discuss how I can help you achieve your health goals.
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The Wheat Zoomer panel assesses sensitivity to wheat, autoimmune disease and intestinal barrier stability. If you suspect you have wheat / gluten sensitivity, multiple food sensitivities, intestinal permeability, autoimmune disorders or chronic inflammation, you may benefit from this panel.
The integrity of the gut lining plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health, as it acts as a barrier between the contents of the intestines and the bloodstream. When this barrier becomes compromised, it can lead to the leakage of harmful substances, such as undigested food particles, toxins and bacteria, into the bloodstream. This breach triggers an immune response and sets the stage for inflammation, systemic health problems and potential autoimmunity.
By identifying elevated levels of antibodies to zonulin or occludin, proteins that regulate the ‘tight junctions’ between gut cells, this test can indicate increased gut permeability. Additionally, measuring antibodies to lipopolysaccharides (LPS), the ‘exhaust’ of gram-negative bacteria living in the gut, can reveal if these harmful substances are entering the bloodstream due to a compromised gut barrier. This and all other Vibrant Wellness panels can only be ordered through me or another registered practitioner.
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The Coeliac Panel tests for coeliac disease, an autoimmune reaction to gliadin, the alcohol-soluble portion of gluten. Gliadin is found in grains, wheat, rye, barley, and to a lesser extent, oats.
An estimated 1 in 100 people worldwide are affected by coeliac disease.
Coeliac disease and gluten sensitivity have two different immune responses to gluten; the symptoms are very similar and make it nearly impossible to determine which condition the patient may have without testing.
When undiagnosed, coeliac disease can cause severe symptoms such as profound malabsorption, steatorrhea, wasting, as well as chronic inflammation.
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Living with chronic conditions is exhausting and frustrating, especially when you can’t pinpoint the root cause. The Autoimmune Zoomer can provide clarity and insight into your health by identifying specific markers for autoimmune diseases.
These conditions can impact virtually every part of the body, leading to chronic fatigue, joint pain, muscle weakness, skin rashes, digestive issues and more.
The Autoimmunity Zoomer is a comprehensive tool to detect and monitor autoimmune diseases that may be at the root of your symptoms. This advanced test measures specific autoantibodies and antigens in your blood, providing detailed insights into the activity of your immune system.
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The Micronutrient Panel assesses direct measurement of both intra- and extracellular nutrient status of common vitamins, minerals, co-factors, amino acids, essential fatty acids and more. If you are diagnosed with or suspect you have a chronic inflammatory condition, autoimmune disease (Coeliac, Crohn’s, etc.), or any condition associated with nutrient malabsorption, you may benefit from this panel.
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Vitamin D, commonly known as the "Sunshine Vitamin”, plays a pivotal role in maintaining the integrity of ‘tight junctions’ within the gut (which stops it from ‘leaking’) and balancing the immune system. Its vital contribution to autoimmunity management cannot be overstated.
Regular monitoring of Vitamin D levels, ideally every 3 months or at least biannually, is recommended to ensure adequate levels (125-175 nmol/l or 50-70 ng/ml). You can request this test through your GP or do a quick and easy finger-prick test at home through Thriva, Medichecks or vitamindtest.org.uk.
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This is a useful and insightful tool that provides valuable information about the health and balance of the digestive system. It includes an assessment of several key components, including but not limited to: beneficial and harmful bacteria, yeast and fungal presence, digestive enzyme activity, inflammation markers and the overall state of gut flora. By analysing these factors, it can offer a thorough overview of the digestive ecosystem, helping to uncover potential issues that might be contributing to digestive discomfort, inflammation or autoimmunity.
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This add-on test is performed in conjunction with other Vibrant Wellness tests to check for the overall production of ImmunoglobulinG (IgG), Immunoglobulin A (IgA) and ImmunoglobulinM (IgM) in the body - an important measurement of general immunity. Low levels of immunoglobulins can be a result of taking steroid or immunosuppressant medications and will need to be taken into consideration when analysing other Vibrant Wellness panels.
Disclaimer: While functional testing can provide insights into various aspects of your health, including potential imbalances, sensitivities or markers of specific conditions, these tests may not be definitive and should not replace traditional medical testing or diagnosis by a licensed medical practitioner. It is important to note that individual responses to functional testing can vary and results should not be taken out of context.