The Live By Design Podcast

Beyond Bloodwork: Unlock the Secrets to Optimal Health with Functional Lab Testing

October 22, 2024

Are you ready to unlock the secrets to optimal health and feel your best? In this blog post, we’ll dive deep into the world of functional lab testing with Jenn Malecha, a Functional Diagnostic Nutrition® practitioner, and explore the limitations of traditional blood tests and the benefits of functional lab testing.

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Tired of feeling tired, run down, and frustrated with your health?

Do you feel like you’ve tried everything, but nothing seems to work?

You’re not alone.

Many people struggle to get answers about their health concerns from traditional blood tests. But what if there was a way to get a more comprehensive picture of your health and uncover the hidden imbalances that may be holding you back?

Enter functional lab testing.

In this blog post, we’ll dive deep into the world of functional lab testing with Jenn Malecha, a Functional Diagnostic Nutrition® practitioner and Transformational Coach. We’ll explore the limitations of traditional blood tests, the benefits of functional lab testing, and inspiring client stories of transformation. Plus, Jenn will share practical tips for taking control of your health and feeling like yourself again.

The Problem with Typical Blood Tests

Have you ever gone to the doctor for a check-up, only to be told that your bloodwork looks “normal,” even though you don’t feel well?

This is a common experience, and it highlights a major limitation of traditional blood tests: they are designed to diagnose disease, not to assess optimal health.

Here are a few key reasons why typical blood tests may not be giving you the full picture of your health:

  • Limited Markers: Traditional blood tests typically only look at a limited number of markers, which may not be enough to reveal underlying imbalances.
  • Generic Ranges: The reference ranges used for blood tests are often very wide and based on averages, which may not be relevant for your individual needs.
  • Delayed Measurement: Blood tests provide a delayed measurement of what’s happening in your body, as they measure the byproducts or waste products of hormones and other substances.

So, what’s the solution?

The Power of Functional Lab Testing

Functional lab testing takes a different approach. It focuses on identifying underlying imbalances and dysfunctions in the body’s systems, rather than just diagnosing disease.

Here are a few key benefits of functional lab testing:

  • Comprehensive Assessment: Functional lab tests look at a wider range of markers, providing a more comprehensive picture of your health.
  • Optimal Ranges: Functional lab testing uses optimal ranges, which are narrower than traditional reference ranges and based on what’s considered ideal for health and well-being.
  • Real-Time Data: Functional lab tests often use samples like saliva, urine, or stool, which provide real-time data about what’s happening in your body.

By uncovering the root cause of your health challenges, functional lab testing can help you:

  • Increase energy and vitality
  • Improve sleep quality
  • Reduce stress and anxiety
  • Boost mood and cognitive function
  • Enhance digestion and gut health
  • Balance hormones
  • Reduce inflammation
  • Lose weight
  • And much more!

Jenn’s Journey to Functional Health

Jenn Malecha’s passion for functional lab testing stems from her personal health journey. As a busy and high-achieving individual, Jenn always prioritized her health, but she started experiencing a series of health challenges that traditional blood tests couldn’t explain.

From seasonal allergies and ear infections to a skin cancer diagnosis at the age of 25, Jenn was determined to find answers.

She eventually discovered Functional Diagnostic Nutrition® and began using functional lab testing to uncover the root cause of her health issues. The results were eye-opening.

Jenn discovered that she had significant hormone imbalances, a congested liver, and an overgrowth of bacteria in her gut. Armed with this knowledge, she made targeted lifestyle changes and used supplements to support her body’s natural healing process.

The results were remarkable.

Jenn’s allergies disappeared, her energy levels soared, and she hasn’t had a recurrence of skin cancer in over 16 years.

Inspiring Client Stories of Transformation

Jenn has helped countless clients achieve similar transformations through functional lab testing. Here are a few inspiring examples:

  • Leslie: Leslie struggled with bloating, weight loss resistance, and low energy. Functional lab testing revealed that she was estrogen dominant and had a sensitivity to beef, which was causing inflammation. By addressing these underlying issues, Leslie was able to lose 20 pounds, feel more energized, and go on to have a healthy pregnancy.
  • Alison: Alison was experiencing significant fibroids and considering surgery. Functional lab testing showed that she had 87 food sensitivities and was estrogen dominant. By eliminating the reactive foods and supporting her body’s detoxification process, Alison’s fibroids shrunk dramatically, and she was able to avoid surgery.

These stories highlight the power of functional lab testing to uncover the hidden causes of health challenges and guide personalized solutions for optimal well-being.

How to Get Started with Functional Lab Testing

If you’re ready to take control of your health and explore the benefits of functional lab testing, here are a few steps you can take:

  1. Advocate for Yourself: If you’re not feeling well and traditional blood tests aren’t providing answers, don’t be afraid to ask your doctor for additional tests or referrals to specialists.
  2. Find a Functional Health Practitioner: Consider working with a functional health practitioner who is trained in interpreting functional lab tests and creating personalized health plans.
  3. Do Your Research: Learn more about the different types of functional lab tests available and which ones may be relevant for your health concerns.
  4. Be Patient and Committed: Functional lab testing is an investment in your health, and it may take time to see results. Be patient, committed to the process, and work closely with your practitioner to make sustainable lifestyle changes.

Remember, you have the power to take control of your health and feel your best. Functional lab testing can be a valuable tool on your journey to optimal well-being.

Additional Tips for Living by Design

In addition to functional lab testing, here are a few other tips for living by design and creating a life you love:

  • Prioritize Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night.
  • Manage Stress: Incorporate stress-reducing activities into your daily routine, such as meditation, yoga, or spending time in nature.
  • Nourish Your Body: Eat a balanced diet rich in whole foods, and consider working with a nutritionist to personalize your eating plan.
  • Move Your Body: Find enjoyable ways to move your body regularly, whether it’s dancing, hiking, or playing sports.
  • Connect with Your Values: Take time to reflect on your values and ensure that your actions are aligned with what’s truly important to you.
  • Set Intentions: Set clear intentions for how you want to feel and what you want to achieve in your life.
  • Take Imperfect Action: Don’t let perfectionism hold you back. Take action, even if it’s messy and imperfect.

By taking a proactive and holistic approach to your health and well-being, you can create a life of vitality, purpose, and joy.

Are you ready to unlock the secrets to optimal health and live by design?

Jenn Malecha is a Functional Diagnostic Nutrition® practitioner and Transformational Coach who helps busy, health-minded professionals take back control of their health. She uses functional lab testing and personalized health plans to help clients achieve sustainable wellness and feel like themselves again.

Connect with Jenn:

Additional Resources:

Remember, you are the boss of your own health. Take charge, advocate for yourself, and seek the support you need to thrive.

Live by design, not by default!

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