As an integrative medicine provider, you play a crucial role in helping patients explore potential underlying factors contributing to their health concerns. Many patients seek your expertise when they have not found clear answers elsewhere. While it is challenging to prevent all diseases, focusing on wellness and early detection can be beneficial.
Preventative yearly wellness exams, including assessments of gut, thyroid, and micronutrient health, can offer valuable insights into a patient's overall well-being. Let's explore how these screenings can support health maintenance.
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A Functional Medicine Approach to Gut Health Screening
The digestive system is essential for converting food into energy and absorbing nutrients. The small intestine plays a significant role in nutrient absorption, while the large intestine handles the remaining waste.
Gut bacteria are involved in producing chemicals like serotonin and dopamine, which can influence mood and digestive activity. These chemicals are linked to feelings of well-being.
If a patient's digestive system is not functioning optimally, it may affect nutrient absorption and gut bacteria balance. This is where comprehensive stool screenings can be helpful. They may provide insights into digestive health and help identify areas that could benefit from attention.
Gut health screenings can offer a broad view of digestion, absorption, and gut bacteria balance. They may also suggest additional areas for further exploration.
Top 3 Comprehensive Gut Health Test Ordered by Rupa Health Practitioners
A Functional Medicine Approach to Thyroid Screening
The thyroid gland helps regulate various body functions by producing hormones. When hormone levels are not balanced, it may affect overall health.
Globally, many people experience thyroid-related health issues.
Certain groups may have a higher likelihood of experiencing thyroid health concerns:
- Women
- Individuals with a family history of thyroid conditions
- Those with other health conditions
- People taking medications high in iodine
- Older adults
- Individuals with a history of thyroid treatment
- Those with micronutrient deficiencies
Annual thyroid assessments often include TSH levels, but a more comprehensive approach may involve additional tests like Free T4, Free T3, and Reverse T3.
By examining functional reference ranges, practitioners can gain insights into thyroid hormone production and conversion.
If test results suggest imbalances, discussing potential lifestyle and nutritional strategies with patients may support thyroid health.
Top 3 Complete Thyroid Panels Ordered Through Rupa Health
A Functional Medicine Approach to Micronutrient Testing
Micronutrients are vital for many bodily processes. Ensuring adequate intake of essential vitamins and minerals is important for maintaining health.
Research indicates that nutrient intake may not meet recommended levels for some individuals, even in developed countries.
Early signs of nutrient deficiencies can be subtle, but over time, they may impact overall health.
Addressing micronutrient-related concerns can support various aspects of health, including immune function and energy levels.
Groups that may benefit from regular micronutrient assessments include:
- Individuals following certain dietary patterns
- Children
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women
- Older adults
- People on specific medications
Annual micronutrient testing can help monitor nutrient levels and support overall health.
Top 3 Complete Micronutrient Panels Ordered Through Rupa Health
Summary
While it is not always possible to see patients before health issues arise, encouraging preventative measures can be beneficial. These tests can provide a general overview of health and help identify areas that may need attention.
Bundles & Re-orders
Once you are ready to incorporate these tests into your routine assessments, you can bundle them for convenience and set up a yearly re-order for ongoing evaluations.
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