Functional Lab Testing: GI-MAP, DUTCH Hormone Testing & Food Sensitivity Tests | Denver & Nationwide
Functional testing provides a unique systems thinking approach allowing us to analyze patterns across multiple body systems by connecting the dots between seemingly unrelated markers; this helps to identify root causes of dysfunction rather than addressing symptoms in isolation. In addition we observe optimal ranges vs. normal ranges. Using tighter, more optimal reference ranges helps us catch imbalances years before they become pathological on standard tests and recognize that “normal” isn’t necessarily optimal. This proactive approach allows us to address imbalances before they develop into chronic conditions or create additional challenges making it an effective early intervention strategy.
Why Functional Lab Testing is Different from Standard Blood Work
Your doctor's standard blood work might come back "normal," yet you still feel exhausted, bloated, or hormonally imbalanced. That's because conventional lab testing looks for disease, while functional lab testing looks for optimal health.
Here’s the key difference:
Standard Blood Work:
Compares your results to a "normal" range based on the average population (including sick people)
Flags values when they're already in the disease range
Focuses on individual markers in isolation
Often misses early-stage imbalances
Functional Lab Testing:
Uses optimal ranges based on healthy populations
Catches imbalances often years before they become pathological providing a roadmap for prevention and early intervention
Analyzes patterns across multiple body systems to identify root causes
Common Health Issues Functional Testing Can Identify
Gut/Digestive Issues
Metabolic Issues
Nutrient Deficiencies
Thyroid Problems
Hormonal Imbalances
Food Allergies/Sensitivities
Fertility Roadblocks
Postpartum-related challenges
Types of Functional Tests We Offer
At Rebel Roots Nutrition, I use advanced functional lab testing to uncover the hidden imbalances affecting your health. All tests are simple blood draws at your local Labcorp or convenient, at-home collection kits available in most U.S. states, with virtual consultation to review your results from the comfort of your home
Our comprehensive testing menu includes:
GI-MAP™ Test
(Gastrointestinal Microbial Assay Plus)
The GI-MAP (Gastrointestinal Microbial Assay Plus) is a comprehensive stool test that provides detailed insights into your digestive tract health using quantitative PCR technology. What it examines:
•The balance of beneficial and harmful bacteria
•Presence of pathogens, parasites, and H. pylori
•Markers of digestion and absorption
Indicators of inflammation and immune dysregulation
MRT® Food Sensitivity
(Mediator Release Test)
The MRT Food Sensitivity test is an end-point test that quantifies the release of inflammatory mediators in response to specific foods or chemicals
Identifies foods actively driving inflammation
Goes beyond common allergens for precise dietary recommendations
Superior accuracy compared with similar testing
Omits the need for time-consuming elimination diets
DUTCH Test
The DUTCH (Dried Urine Test for Comprehensive Hormones) is a cutting-edge test providing a more complete picture of hormone levels than serum testing alone can offer.
Offers comprehensive insights into sex and adrenal hormones
Complimentary to a root-cause approach to identifying hormonal imbalances
Provides convenient at-home sample collection.
Includes adrenal testing helping to understand the potential impact of stress on other hormones
Functional Blood Panel
The comprehensive nutritional blood analysis provides extensive insights into key bodily systems. It offers a cost-effective health overview that helps identify patterns of imbalance across these systems.
Offers broad insights into essential bodily systems and how they are impacting one another
Provides a wealth of information, including many markers traditional practitioners won’t run initially at minimal expense
Highly credible and extensively researched
How Functional Lab Testing Works
→ Step 1: Consultation & Test Selection During your initial intake or discovery call, we'll discuss your symptoms, health history, and goals. Based on this information, I'll recommend the most appropriate functional tests to uncover the root cause of your health challenges.
→ Step 2: At-Home Test Kit Delivery Your test kit ships directly to your home with easy-to-follow instructions. Most tests use simple collection methods like urine, stool, or finger-prick blood samples—no lab visits required.
→ Step 3: Sample Collection & Return Collect your sample at home following the provided instructions, then ship it back to the lab using the prepaid return label. The lab will process your results within 2-3 weeks.
→ Step 4: Results Review & Personalized Protocol Once your results are ready, we'll schedule a comprehensive review session (virtual or in-person). I'll walk you through your findings, explain what they mean for your health, and create a personalized nutrition, supplement, and lifestyle protocol to address any imbalances.
→ Step 5: Ongoing Support You'll receive continued support through follow-up coaching sessions to implement your protocol, track progress, and make adjustments as needed. Many clients see significant improvements within 3-6 months.
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Hello, This is My Story …
I’m board certified in Holistic Nutrition and practice in the foothills of Golden, Colorado where I live as well. I’m also a wife and mother to two awesome boys. Motherhood has been the catalyst for my greatest self-growth and inspired me on my nutrition journey. I left a career as an Early Childhood Educator at one point after being called into the health realm. My extensive background in education, yoga, nutrition and counseling enables me to help other moms thrive so they can shepherd their families with confidence.
In addition to my family-centered background, I provide science-backed nutritional protocols based on functional lab testing, and practical, actionable strategies to quickly get to the root of challenging health issues.