Autoimmunity is a condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks and damages healthy tissues in the body. This can lead to a variety of diseases such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and multiple sclerosis. While conventional medicine approaches autoimmune diseases by suppressing the overactive immune system, functional medicine aims to identify and address the root cause of the condition. To do this, functional medicine practitioners use a range of tests to identify underlying imbalances and triggers that contribute to autoimmunity. In this blog, we will discuss the top six tests that functional medicine practitioners use to identify the root cause of autoimmunity.
Comprehensive Stool Analysis
The gut is home to trillions of microorganisms, collectively known as the gut microbiome, which plays a crucial role in maintaining our health. A healthy gut microbiome helps regulate the immune system, produce essential nutrients, and protect against infections. However, imbalances in the gut microbiome can trigger an immune response and contribute to autoimmune conditions. The comprehensive stool analysis is a functional medicine test that evaluates the composition and function of the gut microbiome.
This test measures the levels of beneficial bacteria, harmful bacteria, yeasts, and other microorganisms in the gut. It also assesses markers of gut inflammation, digestive function, and immune function. The test results can help functional medicine practitioners identify imbalances in the gut microbiome that contribute to autoimmune conditions. For example, research has shown that imbalances in gut bacteria, such as an overgrowth of harmful bacteria and a reduction in beneficial bacteria, are associated with autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.
Food Sensitivity Testing
Food sensitivities occur when the immune system reacts to certain foods, triggering an inflammatory response. Chronic inflammation can contribute to autoimmune conditions by damaging healthy tissues in the body. Food sensitivity testing is a functional medicine test that identifies which foods may be triggering an immune response in the body.
This test measures levels of immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies, immunoglobulin E (IgE), and Complement (C3d) proteins which are produced by the immune system in response to specific foods. Elevated levels of IgG antibodies to certain foods indicate a potential sensitivity to those foods. IgG 4 is protective, while IgG 1-3 may be inflammatory. By identifying which foods are triggering an immune response, and which type of response, functional medicine practitioners can develop personalized dietary recommendations to help reduce inflammation and support the immune system. Testing takes the guesswork out of the diet. Many people try elimination diets without the testing, and it gets complicated, since many of the immune reactions occur 3-72 hours after eating it.
Hormone Testing
Hormones are chemical messengers that regulate various functions in the body, including the immune system. Hormonal imbalances, such as low levels of thyroid hormone or imbalances in sex hormones, can contribute to autoimmune conditions. Hormone testing is a functional medicine test that evaluates the levels of various hormones in the body.
For example, a thyroid panel can measure levels of thyroid hormones, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), and thyroid antibodies. This test can help identify autoimmune thyroid conditions such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Additionally, testing for sex hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone can help identify imbalances that may contribute to autoimmune conditions such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.
Nutrient Testing
Nutrients are essential for optimal immune function. Deficiencies in certain nutrients, such as vitamin D or zinc, can impair the immune system and contribute to autoimmune conditions. Nutrient testing is a functional medicine test that evaluates levels of essential nutrients in the body. For example, a vitamin D test can measure levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D, which is important for immune function and has been linked to autoimmune conditions such as multiple sclerosis. Testing for other nutrients such as zinc, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids can also provide valuable information about potential nutrient deficiencies that may contribute to autoimmune conditions. The list of nutrients is extensive, and very minute traces of certain minerals are required, but important nonetheless.
Environmental Toxin Testing
Environmental toxins are everywhere in our modern world and can contribute to autoimmune conditions by damaging cells and tissues in the body. Toxic exposure can also trigger an immune response and contribute to chronic inflammation. Environmental toxin testing is a functional medicine test that evaluates levels of toxins in the body.
This test can measure levels of heavy metals such as lead, mercury, and cadmium, as well as other environmental toxins such as pesticides and phthalates. Functional physicians also look at biological toxins from bacteria, viruses, molds, or parasites. By identifying potential toxin exposures, functional medicine practitioners can help patients reduce their exposure to toxins and support the body’s natural detoxification processes.
Genetic SNP Testing
Genetic SNP testing for autoimmunity is a powerful tool used in functional medicine to assess an individual’s susceptibility to autoimmune diseases. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are variations in the DNA sequence that can influence gene expression and function. By identifying specific SNPs associated with autoimmune disorders, we can gain insight into a patient’s risk of developing these conditions. In combination with other clinical data, SNP testing can help tailor a personalized treatment plan, including individualizing a diet. For example, identifying SNPs associated with gluten intolerance or lactose intolerance can inform dietary recommendations for patients with autoimmune conditions such as celiac disease or Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.
Conclusion
Functional medicine takes a personalized, root-cause approach to autoimmune conditions. By identifying underlying imbalances and triggers, functional medicine practitioners can develop targeted treatment plans to support the immune system and reduce inflammation. The six tests discussed in this blog are key tools that functional medicine practitioners use to identify the root cause of autoimmunity. If you suspect you may have an autoimmune condition, consider working with a functional medicine practitioner to get to the root of your health issues.
