Functional Testing
Supporting health with Functional Testing
Gain clarity and take control of your health with personalised insights from functional testing—supporting your body with real data, not guesswork.
What can testing tell you?
For men and women seeking to enhance their health and overall well-being, functional testing is a powerful tool. How your health is expressed is closely linked with your biochemistry and genetic predispositions and traits. Testing offers a comprehensive approach to investigate your health more fully. Rather than relying solely on signs and symptoms, testing provides concrete data that allow precise, tailored health plans and solutions.
I suffered from extreme bloating, this has reduced significantly, and my digestion and bowel movements have improved. At the start of my appointments, I could not exercise due to extreme fatigue but now I am managing to exercise consistently. My eyebrows and hair have started growing back again.
Lucy provided me with in depth knowledge and advice about nutrition and encouraged me to take control of my health and learn as much as possible and put it into good practise. In addition, I found genetic testing and private blood testing very beneficial to help me put together a better picture of my overall health. It was a fantastic experience and hugely beneficial.
What is Functional Testing
Personalised Support Rooted in Real Insights
Functional testing brings clarity to complex health issues by exploring what’s happening inside your body, from nutrient deficiencies and hormonal imbalances to gut health and genetic predispositions. Whether you’re managing ongoing symptoms, recovering from illness, or simply wanting to feel better in yourself, I’ll help you navigate the process with evidence-based advice based on your health and your body.
Choosing Functional testing with me means we run the correct tests and to inform us about your symptoms. Very often people are told nothing is wrong, your test results are ‘normal’. I explain to you the differences between Clinical and Optimal reference ranges, and where your results relate to these.
Benefits of ordering functional tests
- Faster Results: When you don’t know what is happening in your body, it is difficult to know the right steps to restore your health. Taking out the guesswork and identifying what is happening leads to informed decisions and faster results.
- Comprehensive Assessment: Complex health conditions require deeper analysis of what is happening in the body. Seemingly unrelated symptoms are often the result of multiple imbalanced biochemical pathways which impact each other. Functional testing helps to identify interconnected issues.
- Precision Nutrition: Interpreting genetic tests alongside functional tests, help determine if, and what extent, your DNA traits and vulnerabilities are being expressed in your current health, and the cause of the symptoms you are experiencing.
How can functional testing help me?
- Assess Nutrient Status: Proper nutrition is essential to maintain and optimise health. These tests evaluate levels of vital vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants your body needs. By identifying deficiencies, excesses, and imbalances, targeted dietary and lifestyle advice can get your health back on track.
- Uncover Genetic Insights: Nutrigenomic testing, examines your genetic blueprint and predispositions, and the results inform your personalised health plan. This allows us to be precise, and target specific health imbalances and the symptoms you experience.
- Identify Hormonal, Gut & Brain Imbalances: Imbalances in biochemical pathways can lead to unwanted symptoms and poor health. Tests assess where your health is currently at, so we can prioritise and focus on best supporting your health.
All test packages include:
- Advice on ordering the right functional test for your current health and symptoms
- Health questionnaire to find out your health goals and priorities
- Test kit including postage and packing
- 1-1 session with Nutrition Therapist to discuss your results
- Support tackling health issues that have been bothering you for a while
- Clear explanations and advice which allow you to make necessary changes
- Greater understanding and confidence in your body
Functional Testing Packages
Ready to take control of your health?
In clinic, I frequently run the following tests to assess wellbeing, monitor health, and investigate Female Health conditions and Fertility issues in both men and women.
£375
Functional Bloods
What's Included
- Core blood biomarkers (e.g. FBC, liver, kidney, iron, hormones, inflammation)
- Health questionnaire
- Phlebotomy in my Inverness clinic (additional cost for home nurse visit or 3rd party clinic)
- 30-minute 1:1 consultation to discuss results
- Summary nutrition action plan
£450
Essential Nutrigenomics
What's Included
- Targeted SNP analysis (e.g. MTHFR, COMT, Vitamin D)
- Health questionnaire
- Saliva-based DNA home test kit
- 30-minute 1:1 consultation to discuss results
- Summary nutrition action plan
£375
Discover Microbiome
What's Included
- Female or Male Testing, couples report can be requested
- NGS (Next Generation Sequencing) Technology for 99.99% accuracy
- Health questionnaire
- At-home sample collection
- 30-minute 1:1 consultation to discuss results
- Option to upgrade to Gut microbiome
- Summary nutrition action plan
POA
Blood Check+
What's Included
- In-depth health questionnaire & case review
- Phlebotomy (in-clinic or many biomarkers via a home kit)
- Bespoke blood panel tailored to your needs
- 60-minute 1:1 results consultation
- Personalised nutrition action plan
- Pricing depends on selected biomarkers
£1500
Nutrigenomics+
What's Included
- Comprehensive panel of 5 reports from Lifecode Gx
- Detailed health questionnaire & goal mapping
- Summary report prioritising your most relevant SNPs and biological pathways
- Personalised nutrition & lifestyle plan, with targeted supplement recommendations
- 60-minute 1:1 consultation to interpret findings and implement next steps
POA
Precision+
What's Included
- Bespoke combination of blood, DNA, and microbiome testing
- Full health history, timeline, and goal mapping
- Deep functional interpretation across all systems
- 60-minute 1:1 consultation
- POA depending on scope and selected tests
Disclaimer:
Functional Testing is used to inform Nutrition Therapy interventions and and provide appropriate diet and lifestyle advice for Lucy Clarke Nutrition & Acupuncture.
All test results, interpretation and advice is for the sole purpose of Nutrition Therapy. This is NOT a medical diagnosis and is NOT to be understood as medical advice.
It is important to always seek medical advice from your doctor or a qualified medical practitioner regarding medical conditions you think you may have.
Want to explore Functional Testing?
5 Simple Steps to Get Started with Functional Testing
Below are the steps to begin testing and uncover the root causes of your health concerns.
Schedule a Mini Call
Knowing which test is right for you is crucial.
Book your free 15-minute call to discuss your symptoms, health goals, and which tests and biomarkers can give you the answers you’re looking for. This is a no-pressure, informative chat — just a chance to discover what’s right for you.
Pay for the Test
Because we’ve already spoken, you’ll be clear on test options, timelines, costs, and any pre-test instructions that could impact accuracy.
You can now purchase the test online or in-clinic — whichever works best for you.
Tell Me More About You
You’ll complete a secure online Health Questionnaire.
This gathers important details about your current health, symptoms, diet, lifestyle, and goals.If any red-flag conditions are identified, I’ll let you know so you can speak with a medical professional.
The more I understand about you, the more personalised your results and plan will be.
Receive & Review Your Results
I’ll receive your results directly from the lab and interpret them in the context of your health history and goals.
You’ll then receive a clear and tailored Summary Nutrition & Lifestyle Action Plan, explaining what the results mean and what to do next.
Discuss It All With Me 1:1
We’ll book a 30-minute online session to go through your results together.
You’ll have time to ask questions and will leave the call with a strong understanding of your health picture and confident, actionable next steps.
IT’S NOT JUST ABOUT THE RESULTS
It’s about understanding what they mean and knowing how to support your health moving forward.
Additional Package Information
Further information on each of my testing packages is below:
Functional Bloods
A comprehensive, functional blood test that goes far beyond standard NHS panels. This package explores key markers related to energy, inflammation, thyroid health, nutrient status, and cardiovascular and organ function — helping you uncover imbalances, investigate symptoms, and support long-term wellbeing through personalised nutrition and lifestyle strategies.
Example Biomarkers/Panels:
- FBC (Full Blood Count) – Overall health, immune function (white blood cells), and red blood cell levels.
- Liver Panel – Detoxification function, inflammation, metabolic stress
- Kidney Panel – Filtration, hydration status, electrolyte balance
- Iron Panel (Ferritin + Transferrin Saturation) – Energy, fatigue, support for healthy red blood cell production
- Vitamin Panel (B12, Folate, Vitamin D) – Nutrient status, immunity, energy metabolism
- Inflammation Marker (CRP or hs-CRP) – Low-grade, chronic inflammation
- Lipid Panel – Cholesterol, HDL, LDL, and Triglycerides to assess heart health and metabolic risk
✅ Ideal for:
✓ Individuals seeking a thorough health baseline or wanting to optimise energy, hormone balance, immunity, and performance through a functional, food-first lens.
✓ Also suited to those with long-standing symptoms, specific health concerns, or early signs of imbalance who are looking for deeper insight than standard blood tests can provide.
Essential Nutrigenomics
A personalised introduction to DNA-based nutrition. This foundational package analyses key genetic variants (SNPs) that influence how your body absorbs, metabolises, and responds to nutrients, toxins, hormones, and stress.
You’ll gain practical insight into your nutritional blueprint, with specific guidance on how to support your health through food, lifestyle, and targeted supplementation — all grounded in your genetics.
What’s Covered:
Personalised DNA report covering:
- Food response & intolerances
- Caffeine & alcohol sensitivity
- Vitamin metabolism (e.g. B12, Folate, Vitamin D)
- Blood pressure regulation
- Detoxification & inflammation pathways
- Circadian rhythm and sleep genes
- Microbiome-related gene interactions
Test providers are selected based on your individual needs and goals — recommendations are made to ensure you receive the most relevant and informative report for you.
✅ Ideal for:
✓ Those looking to explore the connection between their genes and nutrition, and take the first step into personalised health.
Perfect if you want to:
✓ Understand which key nutrients your body struggles to absorb or utilise
✓ Learn how your genetics may increase your risk for future imbalances
✓ Get clear, actionable diet and lifestyle strategies to support your body’s unique needs
Discover Microbiome
Explore the unique microbial makeup of the vaginal, uterine, urinary, or seminal microbiomes. This targeted testing helps uncover imbalances that may be contributing to recurrent infections, inflammation, fertility challenges, or pelvic discomfort — offering clear, actionable steps to support microbial balance, reduce symptoms, and improve long-term health outcomes.
What’s Covered:
- Advanced microbiome analysis, including:
- Lactobacillus species
- Commensal and pathogenic bacteria
- Yeasts and fungi
- Vaginal pH (if applicable)
- Can help identify or provide insight into:
- Bacterial vaginosis
- Recurrent thrush or UTIs
- Cytolytic vaginosis
- Endometriosis-related dysbiosis
- Pelvic discomfort, inflammation, or fertility issues
Test providers are selected based on your needs and sample type.
Testing is usually performed using validated NGS (Next Generation Sequencing) platforms, though PCR and traditional culture methods may be used in some cases to ensure accuracy and personalisation.
Blood Check+
A deep-dive blood analysis for those seeking an advanced, preventative health information. Includes core biomarkers plus optional add-ons tailored to your case. Ideal for clients with ongoing symptoms or complex needs who want expert insight and clear, personalised action.
Example biomarkers may include:
- Methylation support – Homocysteine, B12, Folate, MMA (methylmalonic acid)
- Cardiovascular health – Apo(a), ApoB, Lp(a), full lipid panel, Homocysteine
- Thyroid function – TSH, Free T3, Free T4, Reverse T3, Auto-immune Thyroid antibodies
- Advanced hormone markers – Cortisol, DHEA-s, Oestrogen, Progesterone, Testosterone, LH, FSH, Prolactin, CA125
- Bone health – Vitamin D, Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP), Calcium
- Metabolic Markers – Insulin, fasting glucose, HbA1c, C-peptide, lipid panel, liver enzymes (ALT, AST), and hs-CRP
Please note: Homocysteine testing requires prompt sample centrifugation for accurate results and incurs an additional processing fee.
✅ Ideal for:
✓ Clients with specific health concerns, long-standing symptoms, performance goals, or a need for deep functional insight and custom testing.
✓ After you have made dietary, lifestyle and supplement changes, and are looking for information on how specific biomarkers are responding to your nutritional interventions.
Nutrigenomics+
Broad-spectrum genetic testing to explore your unique biological pathways and pinpoint key SNPs that influence metabolism, detoxification, hormone balance, methylation, and more. The goal is to provide clear, personalised insight to help reduce long-term disease risk, support disease prevention, and optimise your health — now and into the future.
Methylation and Nutrient Core reports are the foundation for nearly every analysis. Additional reports are selected to suit your health history, current symptoms, and personal goals — offering a truly personalised understanding of how your body responds to diet, lifestyle, environment, and supplements.
Nutrigenomics+ uses Lifecode Gx® reports because they offer advanced, clinically relevant genetic analysis tailored to functional health.
Why I chose Lifecode Gx®:
1. Scientifically Robust – The reports are based on peer-reviewed research and focus on functional SNPs that are actionable and relevant to personalised nutrition and long-term health optimisation.
2. Clarity & Usability – They’re beautifully designed, easy to interpret, and provide practical, client-friendly insights that translate directly into targeted nutrition and lifestyle strategies.
3. Comprehensive Coverage – Lifecode Gx® offers a wide range of focused panels — from methylation and detoxification to hormones and cognition — enabling truly personalised recommendations aligned to your goals, symptoms, and stage of life.
Example Lifecode Gx® Report Combinations:
1. Energy, Metabolism & Weight Loss
Methylation, Nutrient Core, Metabolics, Thyroid Balance, Hormones
A five-report genetic panel exploring your metabolic pathways, nutrient processing, hormone balance, energy production, and thyroid function. Ideal for clients focused on sustainable weight management, healthy metabolism, and metabolic optimisation.
2.Bone Health
Methylation, Nutrient Core, Metals & Minerals, Hormones, Thyroid Balance
Genetic insights across nutrient metabolism, mineral balance, detox pathways, hormonal regulation, and thyroid function — designed to inform personalised strategies for strong bones and long-term structural health.
3.Allergy & Sensitivities
Methylation, Nutrient Core, Detoxification, Hormones, Histamine
A targeted five-report genetic panel to investigate histamine-related pathways, detox capacity, nutrient processing, immune balance — ideal for identifying intolerance triggers and supporting immune resilience.
4.Longevity & Healthspan
Methylation, Nutrient Core, Metabolics, APOE, Hormones
Deep genetic insight into methylation, metabolic pathways, hormonal balance, longevity markers, and cardiovascular predispositions — empowering you with personalised strategies to support long-term wellbeing and vitality.
5.Brain Health
Methylation, Nutrient Core, Nervous System, APOE, Metabolics
Comprehensive genetic testing focused on nutrient metabolism, brain signalling, nervous system regulation, APOE-related and cognitive function, and detox pathways — for clients aiming to optimise brain health, mood, and mental clarity.
6.Deep Dive into Your Nutrigenomics
For clients seeking the broadest insight into how their genetics influence nutrient metabolism, detoxification, hormonal regulation, cognitive health, and longevity. Ideal for those who want to explore genetic patterns that impact overall health and performance.
Order any 5 carefully selected Lifecode Gx® reports that offer wide-ranging insight across your core functional systems.
Deep genetic insight into methylation, metabolic pathways, hormonal balance, longevity markers, and heart health predispositions — empowering you with personalised strategies to support long-term wellbeing and vitality.
Precision+
A bespoke combination of advanced blood testing and nutrigenomics analysis, tailored to your unique symptoms, goals, and health history. This fully customised package is ideal for those ready to take a proactive, functional approach to health optimisation, burnout recovery, or complex case resolution — with expert, one-to-one support throughout.
Please note:
Precision+ is created entirely around you. Due to the time required for interpretation and the complexity of results, this package is only available to clients enrolled in Precision Nutrition programmes.
Examples of Areas to Investigate:
- Gut Microbiome Testing
- DUTCH Hormone Testing
- Organic Acid Testing (OAT)
- Food Reaction Testing (IgE & IgG)
- Virus, Mould & Environmental Toxin Testing
- Specialist Fertility Testing — e.g. Sperm DNA Fragmentation, NK Cell Activity, Reproductive Immunology
Examples of Functional Testing Combinations:
- Cardio-Metabolic Function
Cardio-Metabolic Blood Panel + Metabolomics DNA Report - Methylation
Methylation Blood Panel + Methylation DNA Report - Advanced Hormone Analysis
Comprehensive Hormone Blood Panel + DUTCH Hormone Metabolite Testing - Thyroid Function
Advanced Thyroid Blood Panel + Thyroid DNA Report + Methylation DNA Report - Low Energy & Fatigue
Targeted blood biomarkers + virus, mould, and toxin testing + Methylation DNA Report + Thyroid DNA Report + Nutrient Core DNA Report
Lucy broke through the medical jargon and explained everything to me in a way that was easy for me to understand. Any information and communication relating to my care / journey is held within a patient portal which is extremely useful.
The functional testing, and Nutrigenomics has been invaluable. The tests provided me with a road map to what my body needs as an individual, rather than taking anything and everything that I thought was needed. This in not only serviced me for fertility purposes, I now know how best to support my body and it’s functions for life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Functional Nutrition uses optimal reference ranges rather than the broad clinical ranges used in conventional medicine. This helps spot imbalances earlier—before they develop into diagnosable conditions.
Clinical reference ranges are based on population averages, so what’s considered “normal” might not be optimal for you. Plus, many standard tests don’t include the most relevant or sensitive biomarkers for your symptoms, meaning underlying issues may go undetected.
Yes — sometimes the right biomarkers aren’t tested at all.
For example, standard thyroid testing often only includes TSH and sometimes Free T4, which gives a limited picture of thyroid function.
To get the full story, markers like Free T3, Reverse T3, Vitamin D, and Thyroid Auto-immune Antibodies are also needed. Functional testing takes a more comprehensive approach to uncover what’s really going on.
Yes — preparation is important and depends on the test type.
Key things to know:
Blood tests:
Some require fasting (8–12 hours without food), or must be done at specific times of day or phases in the menstrual cycle.
Antibiotics:
These can alter results, especially for microbiome tests. Wait at least 4–6 weeks after finishing antibiotics before testing.
Menstrual cycle timing:
Some tests are affected by menstruation. Vaginal microbiome testing is best done outside your period; uterine microbiome sampling must be done within hours of menstruation starting.
Supplements:
You may need to pause certain supplements before testing to improve accuracy.
Hydration:
Being well-hydrated helps with blood draws and test accuracy.
Illness:
Let me know if you’re unwell or have a cold/infection, as this can temporarily affect results.
⚠️ I will never ask you to stop prescribed medications — this is not required for functional testing and is outside my scope of practice. Clinical reference ranges are designed to identify disease — meaning the usual “normal” range is very broad.
Clinical reference ranges are designed to identify disease—meaning you usually have to be quite far outside the “normal” range to trigger concern.
Optimal ranges are narrower and based on what’s ideal for health and function. This helps us spot suboptimal trends earlier and intervene with nutrition and lifestyle support before clinical problems develop.
Different labs use varying equipment, calibration standards, and population reference ranges — all of which affect results.
For example, vitamin D “normal” levels might differ between countries. Also, how samples are handled, transported, and stored can impact outcomes.
That’s why working with consistent, high-quality functional labs is so important.
Useful Information
Further Reading
Let's Talk!
Contact me to find out more about Functional Testing options and the right tests to help you find out about your health imbalance and troublesome symptoms.
