Laboratory Testing Resources

5 Strands Affordable Testing

https://www.5strands.com/

5 Strands provides a simple test to identify the source of allergy symptoms for people or pets. The non-invasive test uses Bio-Resonance technology to detect intolerances or imbalances. Only a small hair sample is needed to test up to 900 items, including 600 food items, like gluten, wheat, dairy, lactose, and nuts, and 190 environmental intolerance items such as pollen and dust mites. The lab results are provided in an extensive, easy-to-understand report that is divided into short, easily manageable sections that allow users to understand what catalysts are producing their allergy symptoms and to what degree. The tests are affordable and results are delivered via email in 7-10 days after the processing center receives the hair sample.

 

23andMe

Genetic Tests and Ancestry Service
https://www.23andme.com/service/

Knowing your genetics can help you make more informed choices about diet, supplements, exercise and medications.

23andMe is the leading laboratory for home-based saliva collection to send your DNA to the lab and identify your ancestry and your genetic polymorphisms. “You are made of cells. And the cells in your body have 23 pairs of chromosomes. Your chromosomes are made of DNA, which can tell you a lot about you. Explore your 23 pairs today. Find out what your 23 pairs of chromosomes can tell you.”

 

C-Peptide Test

A C-peptide test helps determine how well your body makes insulin. Conventionally, it is used to determine whether a person has type 1 or type 2 diabetes, if a person with diabetes is still producing insulin, or to determine the cause of low blood glucose. Natural medicine practitioners also use it to evaluate the body’s insulin response. Because C-peptide is released at the same time as insulin and in about the same amount and has a much long half-life compared to insulin, it is a more sensitive marker of insulin function and can detect glucose dysregulation sooner than insulin and hemoglobin A1C tests. Naturopathic doctors recommend a tighter range of 0.6 - 2.1 ng/mL for an optimal C-peptide level. A C-peptide test can be ordered through your doctor or a direct to consumer lab such as DirectLabs.

 

Cyrex Laboratories

1-877-772-9739 or http://www.cyrexlabs.com/

Cyrex Labs is an advanced clinical laboratory focusing on mucosal, cellular, and humoral immunology and specializing in antibody arrays for complex thyroid, gluten, and other food-associated autoimmunities. The lab offers new oral fluid screening for Gluten Sensitivity and its complications. Research is showing oral fluid testing may reduce the incidence of false negatives to below 10%. 

In addition to numerous other tests, the lab offers extremely valuable Arrays to identify Food Sensitivities and in particular Gluten Sensitivity and its multiple complications.

 Array 1:  Gluten Sensitivity Screen

     The most research-validated 'screen' of Gluten Sensitivity (oral fluids)

Array 2:  Intestinal Antigenic Permeability Screen

     Finally a test that will identify antigenic Intestinal Permeability

Array 3: Wheat/Gluten Proteome Sensitivity & Autoimmunity

     There are multiple peptides of gluten that are antigenic.  Until now, we have only been able to test one - gliadin.  Now we can test for 10 gluten peptides.

Array 4:  Gluten-Associated Sensitivity and Cross-Reactive Foods

     When a patient doesn't 'feel like a million dollars' on a GFD, are they ingesting foods that cross-react with gluten?  Now the Array is available looking at 24 of these foods.

 

DiagnosTechs 

Diagnos-Techs™ is a pioneer and leader in saliva-based testing. Saliva testing is a powerful tool for evaluating stress, hormone-related disease and a variety of health conditions. They also offer stool testing to measure microbial balance and inflammation and to identify parasites and pathogens. Diagnos-Techs™ continually improves and refines its laboratory testing standards, using cutting-edge technology and methods. Tests offered include: Adrenal Stress Index, Bone Health Panel, Female Hormone Panel, Food Allergy (Sensitivity) Panel, Gastrointestinal Health Panel, Male Hormone Panel, Menopausal Hormone Panels, and Toxic Metals and Elements Panel. For more information please visit http://www.diagnostechs.com/

 

DirectLabs®—Direct Laboratory Services, Inc.

(Blood testing)

The founders of this laboratory established the Direct Access Testing (DAT) concept. DAT is available to the consumer without doctor referral and marketed primarily through the Internet. This lab offers a variety of functional medicine tests such as allergy testing, anemia, arthritis, autism, cancer, cardiovascular, diabetes, gastrointestinal, hormones, immunology, STD’s, thyroid, vitamins, women’s and men’s health. For more information visit the website at www.directlabs.com or call 1-800-908-0000

 

Dried Urine Test for Comprehensive Hormones

(DUTCH test)

Precision Analytical DUTCH tests are a unique way to identify hormone imbalances in men and women. It utilizes dried urine samples to test extensive sex and adrenal hormone profiles along with their important metabolites, cortisol and melatonin. Dried urine samples are collected at specific times during the day, and for cycling women, at certain times of the cycle. The tests are available directly to consumers.  

https://dutchtest.com/ or (503) 687-2050

 

EnteroLab

(Gluten and Food Sensitivity Testing)

972-686-6869 or https://www.enterolab.com

EnteroLab is a registered and fully accredited clinical laboratory specializing in the analysis of intestinal specimens for food sensitivities as well as genetic testing for gluten intolerance and celiac disease.

EnteroLab has developed a unique screening test for gluten sensitivity as well as for dietary yeast, cow's milk, and chicken egg sensitivity. The test is more sensitive and specific than tests in current use (U.S. patent issued; International patents pending). Their method utilizes stool rather than blood as the testing substrate; the rationale of using stool rather than blood for testing for food sensitivity is that immunologic reactions to proteins in the diet are centered within the intestinal tract and not in the blood.

Testing to detect the particular genes that control the immune system's reaction to gluten is useful in the assessment of the probability that a person may be gluten sensitive. These genes are called human leukocyte antigens or HLA. There are several types of HLA genes within each person. It is a particular type called HLA-DQ that is most useful to identify gluten sensitivity.

Test Panels

  • Gluten Sensitivity Stool and Gene Panel Complete
  • Gluten Sensitivity Stool Panel Complete
  • Egg, Yeast, Soy Sensitivity Stool Panel

Individual Tests

  • Stool Test for Gluten Sensitivity
  • Stool Test for Cow’s Milk Protein (Casein) Sensitivity
  • Stool Test for Intestinal Malabsorption/Intestinal Damage
  • Stool Test for Acute/Chronic Colitis
  • Gene Test for Gluten Sensitivity/Celiac Sprue
  • Stool Test for Chicken Egg (Ovalbumin) Protein Sensitivity
  • Stool Test for Dietary Yeast Sensitivity
  • Stool Test for Soy Sensitivity
  • Stool Test for Sensitivity to Tissue transglutaminase

 

Genetic Genie Methylation and Detox Analysis

Genetic genie offers third party analysis, interpretation and reports for raw consumer genomic data obtained from DNA interpretation and analysis services like 23andMe. It is a donation-based service (there are no fees) providing reports on methylation and detoxification.

http://geneticgenie.org/

 

Genova Diagnostics Lab – Functional Assessments

In 2014, Genova Diagnostics and Metametrix (the two leading clinical functional medicine laboratories) entered into agreement to unite as one company.  All laboratory tests previously offered through Metametrix are now available through Genova Diagnostics.

Genova Diagnostics (GDX) was established in 1986 as Great Smokies Diagnostic Laboratory, GDX today serves more than 8,000 primary/specialty physicians and healthcare providers, offering more than 125 specialized diagnostic assessments.

A physician referral list is available by calling Genova Diagnostics at 1-800-522-4762 or through e-mail via their web site at www.gdx.net. Many naturopaths and functional medicine practitioners offer testing through Genova as well. Assessment categories include:

Gastrointestinal Assessments include the renowned Comprehensive Digestive Stool Analysis and several other tests and panels yielding important information about the ecology of the GI tract, including intestinal wall integrity, small bowel bacterial overgrowth, yeast presence, immune function, parasite activity, specific intolerances, Helicobacter infection, and vaginal health.

Celiac Profile is a serum test to measure both IgA and IgG for Anti-Tissue Transglutaminase along with Total IgA as the initial assay, with an option to monitor treatment with a measure of Anti-Gliadin IgA and IgG. Dr. Hanaway explains that "the purpose of this special algorithm is to identify the 10-15% of individuals with Celiac disease who are IgA deficient. If a patient is IgA competent and presents a negative IgA Transglutaminase, the test is highly specific to rule out Celiac Disease. However, if the patient is IgA deficient, the new IgG anti-tissue Transglutaminase test is needed to have the same specificity and sensitivity to rule out Celiac Disease or identify the need for a confirmatory biopsy."

CV Health Panel is a comprehensive evaluation of cardiovascular biomarkers featuring an advanced lipid profile that utilizes Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) fractionation technology, inflammatory biomarkers, and a novel Insulin Resistance Score.

Immunology Assessments include the revolutionary Comprehensive Antibody Assessment, with its unique reporting of IgG antibodies for delayed reactions as well as IgE for immediate reactions.

Nutritional Assessments range from Elemental Analysis (toxic and nutritional element levels), Amino Acids Analysis (of 40+ amino acids critical to healthy metabolism and detoxification), and Essential & Metabolic Fatty Acids Analysis (addressing the most widespread nutritional deficit in modern life).

Endocrinology Assessments evaluate the body's ability to regulate itself through hormone action. Tests include evaluations of sex and regulatory hormones (including human growth hormone mediator IGF-1), the Bone Resorption Assessment, and a Glucose/Insulin Tolerance Test.

Metabolic Assessments measure the body's detoxification processes, oxidative stress and antioxidant defense capabilities, and cardiovascular health (with a comprehensive array of independent markers). There is also a Cotinine Assay to identify the nicotine metabolite and pinpoint a cause of recurrent infections or allergy in children of smokers.

 

GlycoMark Test

A non-fasting blood test, that can detect post-meal blood glucose spikes over the last one to two weeks, fluctuations that are undetected in a standard hemoglobin A1C test. It has been shown that the more frequent and more extreme a person’s blood glucose highs and lows are (aka greater glycemic variability), the more oxidative stress, inflammation, damage to the vascular system, and, in diabetics, the more diabetes related complications occur. GlycoMark can help to determine glycemic variability and can show the effects of dietary and lifestyle changes in as little as one week. The GlycoMark test is widely available through physicians’ offices, draw stations, and laboratories such as LabCorp and Quest. To find out more visit: https://glycomark.com/

 

GrassrootsHealth—A Public Health Promotion Organization

GrassrootsHealth has launched a worldwide public health campaign to solve the vitamin D deficiency epidemic through educating the public and offering testing without doctor referral.  The campaign is called D*action. They offer vitamin D blood spot testing to be done at home. Test results are sent directly to the consumer. They also offer Omega-3 levels, inflammation levels, and mineral and heavy metal tests. For more information visit the website at www.grassrootshealth.net or call (706) 579-8141.

 

Great Plains Laboratory

The Great Plains Laboratory, Inc., provides testing for metabolic, mitochondrial, and environmental factors in chronic illnesses. Tests are not available directly to the public, but Great Plains Laboratory is able to help connect you with specialists or physicians in your area. https://www.greatplainslaboratory.com/ or 913-341-8949. They offer a variety of tests including:

The Organic Acids Test (OAT)
The OAT provides an accurate evaluation of intestinal yeast and bacteria using urine sample. Abnormally high levels of these microorganisms can cause or worsen behavior disorders, hyperactivity, movement disorders, fatigue and immune function. Many people with chronic illnesses and neurological disorders often excrete several abnormal organic acids. The OAT also includes markers for vitamin and mineral levels, oxidative stress, neurotransmitter levels, and oxalates.

GLP-TOX Profile (Toxic Non-Metal Chemicals)
Because exposure to environmental pollutants has been linked to many chronic diseases, the GLP-TOX test uses a urine sample to screen for the presence of 173 different toxic chemicals including organophosphate pesticides, phthalates, benzene, xylene, vinyl chloride, pyrethroid insecticides, acrylamide, perchlorate, diphenyl phosphate, ethylene oxide, acrylonitrile, and more.  This profile also includes Tiglylglycine (TG), a marker for mitochondrial disorders resulting from mutations of mitochondrial DNA.  These mutations can be caused by exposure to toxic chemicals, infections, inflammation, and nutritional deficiencies.

MycoTOX Profile
Mycotoxins are toxic metabolites produced by fungi like mold, which can infest buildings, vehicles, and foodstuffs. Diseases and symptoms linked to mycotoxin exposure include fever, pneumonia-like symptoms, heart disease, rheumatic disease, asthma, sinusitis, cancer, memory loss, vision loss, chronic fatigue, skin rashes, depression, ADHD, anxiety, and liver damage. The MycoTOX profile uses a urine sample to test for a variety of mycotoxins and mold genera.

Glyphosate
Glyphosate is the most widely used herbicide in the world. Great Plains Laboratory uses a urine sample to test glyphosate levels and they also offer water sample testing.

IgG Food Allergy Test + Candida
Immunoglobulin G (IgG) food testing is a useful guide for structuring elimination diets for patients with many chronic conditions. Individuals with neurological, gastrointestinal, movement, and behavioral disorders often suffer from IgG food sensitivities. Symptoms associated with food sensitivities may occur hours or days after the offending food was eaten because IgG food antibodies remain for a much longer time than traditional IgE antibodies. The IgG Food Allergy Test tests 93 common foods. They also offer an Asian panel that includes foods common to Asian cuisine. The test also evaluates IgG antibodies to the fungal organism Candida albicans. A blood sample or dried blood spot (for those unable to obtain a blood draw) is used.

 

Horizon Laboratory

http://www.horizonlaboratory.com/

Horizon Laboratory provides lab services (blood testing) to the residents of northern Colorado locally instead of sending samples to an out-of-town lab. Their highly trained staff consists of more than 140 laboratory personnel including business associates, medical technologists, phlebotomists, and lab assistants dedicated to providing timely information essential to the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of disease. They offer Direct Access Testing, Monday through Friday, on a walk-in basis.

Benefits of Direct Access Testing:

  • Low out-of-pocket expense for patients who are uninsured. Cash, check or credit card accepted at the time of service. 
  • Individuals may wish to have more frequent testing than their health care insurance plans will cover. Horizon Laboratory will not bill insurance for Direct Access Tests.
  • A good option for people who wish to assess their health status on a regular basis.
  • Individuals can have basic lab testing performed without a physician’s order.

 

Life Extension

https://www.lifeextension.com/lab-testing

Life Extension is an organization dedicated to finding new scientific methods to enhance and expand the healthy human life span. One of its many offerings is over 230 comprehensive lab panels for specialized tests for heart and brain health, DNA, stress levels, hormones, allergies, and more. Results are sent directly to you and they offer free Wellness Specialists to walk you through your results. A sampling of their available tests includes:

  • NMR LipoProfile® Test
  • Parathyroid Hormone (PTH) Test
  • Omega-3 Index
  • Leptin Blood Test
  • Nutrient Panel Blood Test

 

Livewello

https://www.livewello.com/

Livewello offers very affordable custom reporting based on your raw data from direct-to-consumer genetic test services (e.g. 23andMe or Ancestry.com). The gene templates display SNPs for Methylation Detox, Immune Factors, IgE and IgG disorders, pharmacogenomics (drug metabolism) and much more.

 

Quest Diagnostics

Visit http://www.questdiagnostics.com/ for more information on available tests, ordering, testing and obtaining test results. For Patient Service Center Locator for Quest Diagnostics call 1-800-377-8448.

Brief overview of tests they provide:

General Wellness:

  • Women’s health profile
  • Osteoporosis risk test
  • Men’s health profile
  • Prostate specific Antigen (PDA)
  • Nutrition and vitamin panel
  • Vitamin B12 and folate panel
  • CBC (Complete blood count)
  • Urinalysis

 

Specific Conditions:

  • Allergy panels
  • Anemia screening panel
  • Diabetes monitoring panel/screening
  • Gout screening and monitoring
  • Heart risk panel
  • Lipoprotein
  • Fractionation, NMR with Lipid Panel
  • Liver health panel
  • Osteoporosis risk test (ORT)
  • PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen)
  • Thyroid health screen

 

Infections:

  • STD screen
  • Hepatitis C screen
  • Hepatitis C (Home testing kit)
  • HIV (Home testing kit)
  • Other Concerns:
  • Blood type
  • Drug screen
  • Homocysteine
  • Pregnancy test (blood)

 

Quicksilver Mercury Tri-Test

https://www.quicksilverscientific.com/all-products/mercury-test-kit/

The Quicksilver Mercury Tri-Test is the only clinical test that utilizes mercury speciation analysis, a patented advanced technology that separates methyl mercury (MeHg) from inorganic mercury (HgII) and measures each directly. Quicksilver Scientific’s instruments are sensitive enough to measure ambient mercury levels in the body WITHOUT THE NEED FOR CHALLENGE TESTING. This laboratory test provides unprecedented information for the healthcare practitioner, allowing them to assess the patient’s exposure sources, body burden and ability to excrete each form of mercury. This detailed information helps build an informed picture and allows the clinician to plan a rational approach to successful detoxification strategy for the patient. Some states require this test to be ordered through a doctor or health practitioner.

 

ZRT Laboratory

ZRT Laboratory was founded by biochemist and breast cancer researcher, David T. Zava, Ph.D. The lab offers minimally invasive tests covering a range of current health care issues, including salivary hormone testing and blood spot vitamin D. ZRT Laboratory is an independently owned and operated CLIA (Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments) certified hormone testing facility. ZRT Laboratory provides hormone-testing services worldwide via partnerships with more than 9,000 healthcare providers. Tests are available to the consumer without a doctor referral. Please visit the website at https://www.zrtlab.com/ or call1-866-600-1636 for more information and laboratory test pricing.