Functional Laboratory Testing

Are there any restrictions to taking a test?

Some tests may require that you have to avoid certain foods or taking certain supplements for a few days beforehand.

Some tests are not available to individuals under 18 years of age.

Some tests need to be carried out at a specific time of day.

The specific instructions will be provided by the naturopathic doctor prior to each test.

Total Thyroid Screen

(Venous blood sample) -looking at the complete range of thyroid hormones TSH, T3, T4, Ft4, Ft3, FT4:Ft3 ratio, rT3, and TG and TPO antibodies

Comprehensive Adrenal Profile

(Saliva collection samples) – assessing levels of cortisol and DHEA and the impact they may be having on stress levels, health, weight, thyroid function, mood etc.

Comprehensive Stool Analysis- Gut Function Testing

(Stool sample/s) – analysis of gut bacteria -beneficial and pathogenic, parasites, yeasts; indications of inflammation, digestive capabilities, gut immunity, intestinal permeability.

Not only used to evaluate gastro intestinal symptoms, but to provide insight into sources of ongoing ‘silent’ inflammation which affects everything in the body. This can manifest such as: depression and anxiety, joint or back pain, autoimmune conditions, eczema and psoriasis, allergies, etc., as well as the primary symptoms of bloating, cramping, constipation, or diarrhoea.

Evaluates the gut microbiome-the bacteria that live in the gut, influencing health in numerous ways. Understanding the basic composition of the gut bacteria can help address dysbiosis (imbalance) through a personalised plan and programme.

Allows understanding of oestrogen metabolism and enzymes of digestion and absorption

SIBO test (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth)

(Timed breath samples) – assessing levels of methane and hydrogen in the breath to indicate presence of SIBO

Organic Acids Test

(Urine sample) – a comprehensive view of nutrient status and requirements, detoxification and methylation capability, energy production, gut dysbiosis and indications of yeast overgrowth.

Aids understanding in whether your body is getting and using the nutrients needed for optimal health and function, so guides your personalised plan and programme to restore your body to its intended balance.

Especially helpful in the evaluation of the causes of fatigue, GI issues, difficulty losing weight, hormone balance and mood issues.

DNA/genetic test

(Blood spot, dried urine or saliva) – looking at your genetic strengths and weaknesses, predisposition towards certain health conditions, genetic preference for certain foods and types of exercise

Vitamin D

(Finger prick blood sample) – this vital nutrient is important for immune function, bone strength, brain health, metabolism and weight regulation, mood and energy and yet many of us in the UK are low in it.

Homocysteine

(Venous blood or finger prick blood sample) – homocysteine is a much more accurate marker for risk of cardiovascular disease than cholesterol. Elevated levels of homocysteine also predict Alzheimer’s and dementia, diabetes, and other chronic and inflammatory conditions; yet is rarely tested for within conventional medicine.

Other Functional Tests are available such as:

• Menopause / Female Hormone Profile
• Diabetes panels / Insulin Resistance
• Vitamin and Mineral profiles
• Anaemia panel
• Fatty Acid Balance
• Allergy/intolerance Testing – dairy, grain, gluten, other groups of foods and inhalants
• Gluten Sensitivity –IgE coeliac disease screening, or gluten sensitivity

Why have a functional Laboratory test?
Functional laboratory testing can be utilised to help identify imbalances in the body, and enable our wellness practitioners to design a program specific to your health care needs.

We work together to find the source of any issues and an inspiring program that fits your health needs and lifestyle.

Functional laboratory testing can be used to evaluate:

• Food intolerances
• Food allergies
• Gut issues
• Thyroid function
• Liver/kidney function
• Hormone levels
• Cholesterol levels
• Vitamin D, B12 deficiency
• Iron deficiency
• Stress (Cortisol) levels
• & other possible issues

How quickly will I get the results?

Routine tests results are usually received within 5-10 days, more in-depth tests can take up to 21 days +/- 2-3 days.

Urgent test results are usually received within 2-3 days, depending on the test and laboratory location.

Some results will be required before starting on a programme. Others can be run during a programme.

Functional medicine tests can provide a much clearer picture of the underlying causes for your symptoms, and therefore, allow resolution of previously difficult to address and treat problems.

You will receive a comprehensive analysis of the laboratory test results from your naturopathic doctor and supporting nutritional and lifestyle advice, treatments and therapies to help resolve any issues.

Hope Spring Clinic Other Services:

Click on each service for full details.

Naturopathic Medicine
Immuno-Oncology
Women’s Health MOT
Women’s Fertility MOT
Men’s Health MOT
IV Drip Therapy
Medical Thermography
Nutritional Therapy
Manual Lymphatic Drainage
Sports & Rehabilitation Therapy
Acupuncture

Hope Spring Clinic Practitioners:

Aliyyaa Spring-Charles BSc (Hons) ND MRN
Naturopathic Medicine, Immuno-Oncology,
Manual Lymphatic Massage, Nutritional Therapy
Functional Laboratory Testing

Maria Liberos
Infusions, Injections, Phlebotomy Services

Dr. Vasileiadis MD FRCP
Prescriptions

Katerina Burianek MSc, DCHAc, CCosD
Acupuncture

Loulla Antoniou ARH, CMA, IAMT, NAANT
Medical Thermography

Aaron Lewis BSc (Hons), mSTA
Sports & Rehabilitation Therapy

Ala Taylor DipCNM, mBANT, mCNHC
Nutitional Therapy, Clinic Administrator

Bonnie’s Story

“In September 2016 my 11-year-old son was diagnosed with anaplastic astrocytoma; a type of brain tumour. The diagnosis was late and he underwent a round of chemotherapy and radiotherapy. I wanted to find someone to help him transition to complementary medicine as by the time he had left the hospital he was on 10 different medications. I was so relieved when I found Aliyyaa as she was so experienced in Oncology and willing to help advise re natural treatments whereas many other doctors had refused to help.

My son has made amazing progress since seeing Aliyyaa and I have seen a massive change in him both physically and emotionally. Since coming off so many of the originally prescribed medicines from the hospital and introducing natural medicines into his daily life he has had a healthy and steady weight loss and amazing improvement in his energy levels and mobility.

Finding Aliyyaa was an answer to prayer, and we no longer felt alone during this challenging period of our lives. I was also so relieved that finding Aliyyaa has meant we have not had to travel abroad for treatment.”

Jessica’s Story*

“Having been diagnosed with lymphoma in my early 50s, I have very regularly been attending Aliyyaa’s clinic for naturopathy and Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD).  I have found Aliyyaa professional, knowledgeable, caring and supportive. She is genuinely interested in the welfare of her patients and actively seeks to provide a comprehensive and bespoke programme of treatment tailored to individual’s needs. I always feel better for having seen Aliyyaa and would have no hesitation in recommending her to others.”

*not her real name

Dana’s Story

“Aliyyaa, I cannot thank you enough for everything you have done to improve Jacob’s health and wellbeing. You have impacted on all our lives in the most positive of ways.

We first came to see you at a very worrying and stressful time. Jacob was very unwell with stomach ache and migraines occurring daily. He had already missed a lot of school and there seemed to be no end in sight. Having taken him to our GP, to no avail, we were at our wit’s end.

Thankfully you were there to offer immediate good advice. Within a couple of weeks Jacob was feeling better and returned to school. It was a difficult journey but your care, knowledge, understanding, patience and practical advice, not to mention your kindness and good humour made a huge difference to all of us. You have an amazing ability to take your wealth of knowledge and make it accessible for not only adults but children alike.

Thank you. Everyone should have an Aliyyaa in their life! I don’t wish ill health on our family but I do look forward to seeing you again.”

Sylvie’s Story

“Just a quick note to say thank you Aliyyaa. I know we have a long way to go to get me back on track, but I have really been thinking about doing everything you have said and the advice you have given me and while things are still very tough at home, I am already learning to make small changes that have a big impact on how I feel in myself and my life.

In the past years, I have seen so many doctors, psychologists, physios, osteopaths etc., so many specialists and yet nobody listened to me as you do. You treat me like a person, not a number, and you help me where I need help as an individual and not as another person on the list who’ll end up with a one-size-fits-all treatment just to get me out of your treatment room until the next patient.

So I really wanted to email you to say thanks and let you know how I felt because I feel that for the first time in my life, I have come to the right place and found someone who really cares about helping me get back to a healthy state at every level, physically and mentally, and for that I am really grateful to you. I know there’s lots to look at and to be done but I do feel positive that your help is what I needed and feel like I can trust you.”

Sharon’s Story

“I was tired all the time, fatigued and debilitated. I didn’t know if I would be able to get through the day, from one day to the next. My GP wanted me to wait 3 months before doing any proper examinations and I simply could not go through 3 months of this before anyone was ready to take my symptoms seriously.

So I turned to Aliyyaa, and she was a lifesaver, she helped me at a time when no one else would. She took my symptoms seriously ­ even took note of small changes in the body that GPs usually dismiss. She sat and spoke to me at length about what I was going through and my medical history. She is warm and easy to talk to and enabled me to open up to her quickly.

It was such a relief to finally find someone who took me seriously and understood what I was going through. By reading the signs my body was giving out, Aliyyaa helped me in a way that no conventional GP could or would. She eased me gently into a different lifestyle and dietary changes ­ not pushing any change too quickly. She made sure to only give me changes that were manageable.

Three months later I am like a different person ­ energetic, happy and full of life. I look fresh and vital. Most importantly, I understand my body’s signals and how to respond to them. I have already recommended Aliyyaa to friends and family, and highly recommend her to anyone who wants to feel good and be in charge of their body.”

Jeyda’s Story

“Aliyyaa is treating me for a number of very complex autoimmune conditions: ankylosing spondylitis, uveitis, Crohn’s. We are currently looking into possible root causes or aggravating factors that may be driving my condition. She has advised me on how to reduce certain triggers and stressors that may be negatively impacting my health.

Aliyyaa has also really helped in giving me alternative treatments to counteract the negative effects that years of conventional medicine has had on my body paying particular attention to liver and eye health.

I feel extremely comfortable and confident under her care – she has been amazing in supporting me with all my health issues and in answering any questions I have with expertise and great knowledge. Aliyyaa is very easy to talk to and always gives effective advice and solutions to any problems.

It has been such a relief having Aliyyaa as my naturopathic practitioner. She was highly recommended to me by a friend and I am so grateful to Aliyyaa for doing such a wonderful job.”

Karen’s Story

“On first meeting Aliyyaa I felt instantly connected her aura and kindness. She listened to my issues and this was the first step towards a positive future. Aliyyaa was very thorough, and after extensive tests, knew how to treat my health issues.

I had malabsorption due to Morphine and non-steroidal anti-inflammatories after being on them 5 years. With the vitamins prescribed, and Aliyyaa’s helpful advice, I now have a healed gut. Aliyyaa is an extremely clever Naturopath and most importantly, Aliyyaa listened to me.”

Hiroko’s Story

“Having been brought up with Eastern, holistic medicine, I immediately resonated with Aliyyaa’s approach to supporting my health issues. She displays a wonderful combination of extensive knowledge of the human body, pragmatism and compassion.

I found her sessions immensely supportive when I was going through a difficult time.  She provided me with practical, manageable advice at each time – be it supplements, dietary changes or changes in habit- which helped me to restore my own balance. Along with countless bits of small advice given along the way, and changes I could implement in my daily life, what I’ve learnt most from her is to listen to my body, so as to trust my own healing capacities within.”

Genoveva’s Story

“I meet Aliyyaa over a year ago and she helped me with my health condition more than I could ever express in words. Following her help and great advice, my life totally changed and my health improved considerably.

I tried for many years to understand and solve my health issues which affected my life in so many ways but nothing seemed to work. I almost gave up on living a proper life when God put her in my way and my life changed ever since. I feel blessed and so grateful for all her help and kindness. I feel healthier than ever in my life and it is all her input. She is intuitive, knowledgeable and truly understands the person in front of her.

I trust and recommend Aliyyaa’s services with all my heart. She’s incredible and I own my life to her! Thank you Aliyyaa for helping me through this complicated process and God bless you!”