I’m sharing my opinion on the best functional workshops for women. Please note that this is not medical advice. If you’re curious about testing options, talk to your doctor or practitioner about what’s best for you. xo
Hello friends! How are you; I hope you had a great post-Thanksgiving weekend! We are traveling back to Tucson from a super fun trip to Arkansas to visit family.
For today’s post, I wanted to share a little about functional lab testing. The functional lab tests have helped me a lot personally and provided invaluable information for my 1:1 clients. Please note that these tests are not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any disease or illness. Instead, it’s about finding unique information about deficiencies and toxicities in your body. When you have this information, you can create an action plan to help bring the body back into balance. You never *need* to do any of these tests, but they are an incredible way to gather information about your unique body.
Functional laboratory testing has become an invaluable tool for people seeking a deeper understanding of their health. While conventional laboratory tests focus primarily on disease diagnosis, functional laboratory tests provide information on how the body is functioning at a cellular and metabolic level. For women over 35 who want to optimize their well-being, some functional workshops can be particularly insightful.
the best functional labs for women over 35
Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis (HTMA): A window into mineral balance
One of the key functional tests for women over 35 is the hair tissue metal analysis (HTMA). This non-invasive test analyzes the mineral content of hair, providing a valuable window into nutrient deficiencies and imbalances. As women age, hormonal changes can significantly affect mineral absorption and utilization. Imbalances in minerals like magnesium and zinc, for example, can affect mood, energy levels and hormonal health.
Understanding your mineral status through HTMA allows for targeted supplementation and dietary adjustments, as well as lifestyle changes. This differentiated approach can positively affect hormonal balance and contribute to overall well-being.
A look at my HTMA. I’ll be going over some of them on IG stories today!
Organic Acids Test (OAT): Revealing Metabolic Indicators
The Organic Acids Test (OAT) is another powerful functional test that examines organic acids produced by metabolic processes. It provides a comprehensive snapshot of how the body uses nutrients and manages oxidative stress. For women over 35, metabolic changes can have profound effects on energy production and hormone metabolism. This is a urine test that can easily be completed at home.
Elevated markers in OAT may indicate issues such as inefficient energy production or impaired detoxification pathways. It also gives background information on nutrient deficiencies, candida/bacteria/yeast overgrowth, and neurotransmitters (such as dopamine and serotonin). Addressing these concerns based on the insights from OAT can support metabolism and hormonal balance. This is also huge for looking for root causes related to autoimmune, digestive/bloating and allergy related symptoms.
Stress, mood and metabolism: Navigating the crossroads
Stress plays a key role in hormonal health, especially for women over 35. The stress, mood and metabolism test assesses cortisol levels and the body’s ability to handle stress. Elevated cortisol levels due to chronic stress can disrupt the delicate balance of reproductive hormones, leading to problems such as irregular periods, PMS, fatigue, poor sleep and mood swings. These home tests consist of salvia and blood spots.
By assessing stress markers, individuals can adjust their lifestyle and nutritional strategies to better manage stress. This proactive approach can have a profound impact on hormonal harmony and overall vitality. This test also includes hormone markers (estradiol, progesterone, pg/e2 ratio, DHEA), blood sugar markers (insulin and hemoglobin A1C), vitamin D, and thyroid markers.
Navigating the pros and cons of functional lab testing
While functional laboratory testing offers valuable information, it is important to understand both its benefits and limitations. One of the advantages is the ability to detect imbalances before they manifest as overt diseases. This preventive approach aligns with the goal of preventive health.
However, it is important to recognize that functional laboratory tests are not diagnostic tools. They provide a more holistic understanding of health, but should be interpreted alongside clinical assessments and traditional laboratory results. It’s also important that your practitioner gets to know you: your unique challenges, background, lifestyle, stress levels, and any specific concerns and goals you may have.
For women over 35 looking for a proactive approach to health, functional lab testing can be a game changer. HTMA, OAT and Stress, Mood and Metabolism tests offer a personalized roadmap to wellness. By addressing imbalances early and adopting targeted interventions, women can optimize their hormonal health and embrace the aging journey with vitality.
The personalized insights gained from these functional tests empower women to make informed health decisions. Taking a holistic approach that combines functional testing with lifestyle adjustments can lead to lasting wellness for all of us navigating the complexities of hormonal changes over time.
If you are ready to collaborate 1:1 and explore functional testing options, you can apply here. (Note that this app reflects the 6-month coaching rate.) With my 1:1 clients, we customize their plan based on their needs. I can create complete fitness plans, calculate macros, help with resistance to weight loss, build muscle and also create personalized plans based on functional lab results. We can start working on the labs now and then hit the ground running in the new year!
Please let me know if you have any questions!!
ho ho
Gina
If you’re curious about getting certified as an IHP2 so you can learn how to read these functional workshops (plus quite a few more!) and use it to help yourself and others, check it out here. Use code FITNESSISTA for up to $250 off!
POSTSCRIPT.
Today is Cyber Monday!
Here are some of the best sellers from the blog this past week:
These lovely hand printed earrings
This is the same pad I have and love!
This spanx set. I hope you’re obsessed with it, too!
Lots of the same adorable clothes I recently bought for P, including this one ruffled sweatshirt, plush t-shirt, pleated corduroy skirt, polka dot t-shirtand floral dress.
The perfect stocking stuffer for your husband/partner does exist
If you are getting Uggs for the kidswaterproof is the solution.
Sakara: You can still use My link and code XOGINAH for 25% off at Sakara. Glad so many of you took advantage of the best sale of the year. Treat yourself heeeeeere.
Higher DOSE: If you had your eye on one sauna blanket, PEMF Go Matthe Red Light face mask, now is the time! These products have made a huge difference in my mood, sleep and skin. Check it out here and use FITNESSISTA20 for a 20% discount.
More:
Hormone health tips for women over 35
Natural remedies for PMS
How to eat for your menstrual cycle
