Hi, I’m Dr. Erez, and I’m excited to share insights into the advanced testing I use in my medical practice. These tests help uncover underlying causes of chronic health issues and can optimize overall wellness. If you've ever wondered about the full scope of diagnostic tools beyond standard checkups, keep reading!
Comprehensive Stool Testing: Unlocking Gut Health
One of the primary tests I perform for patients with gut issues, autoimmune conditions, or other unexplained symptoms is a comprehensive stool test. I frequently use Genova Diagnostics’ GI Effects test, which provides a complete picture of gut health.
This test analyzes:
- Digestive function and enzyme output
- Inflammation markers like calprotectin
- Gut microbiome balance, including beneficial and harmful bacteria
- Parasitic or yeast infections
It even provides information on specific microbes like Akkermansia muciniphila, which plays a crucial role in gut lining integrity. Treatment plans often include dietary changes, probiotics, or specific supplements tailored to the results.
Hormone Testing: Understanding the Endocrine System
For patients struggling with fatigue, stress, sleep issues, or hormonal imbalances, I recommend the Dutch Plus test or the Dutch Cycle Map Plus (for women tracking their full menstrual cycle).
This test evaluates:
- Estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone levels
- Cortisol patterns to assess stress and adrenal function
- Breakdown products of estrogen, which can indicate potential risks for hormonal-related conditions
Knowing how hormones are metabolized can guide treatment decisions, including diet, lifestyle changes, and supplementation. It's also particularly valuable for individuals having trouble losing weight or struggling with hormone-related issues.
Advanced Cardiovascular and Metabolic Testing
Standard cholesterol panels don’t always provide the full picture of heart health. That’s why I use Boston Heart’s advanced cardiovascular testing.
This test measures:
- LDL particle count and APO B for a refined cardiovascular risk assessment
- Inflammatory markers like Hs-CRP and myeloperoxidase
- Metabolic factors such as insulin resistance and hemoglobin A1c
Having this data allows us to create more precise interventions, ranging from dietary changes to targeted supplementation and, in some cases, medications.
Genetic and Epigenetic Testing
Genetic insights are incredibly valuable in functional medicine. Rather than just focusing on specific single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), I often recommend whole genome sequencing.
Key areas of interest include:
- Histamine metabolism genes that impact food sensitivities
- Methylation pathways (MTHFR) affecting folate metabolism
- Other polymorphisms influencing detoxification and disease susceptibility
By tailoring nutrition and supplementation based on genetic tendencies, we can help improve health outcomes in a personalized way.
Microbiome Testing: A Deep Dive into Gut Bacteria
If standard stool testing isn’t revealing enough, I also utilize 16s RNA microbiome testing. This cutting-edge test maps out hundreds of bacterial species in the gut and can uncover imbalances contributing to conditions like:
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)
- Autoimmune disorders
Results help guide recommendations for probiotics, prebiotics, and dietary modifications to improve gut health.
Toxin and Heavy Metal Testing
Exposure to environmental toxins can contribute to chronic health problems. I frequently test for:
- Glyphosate (commonly found in pesticides)
- Parabens and phthalates from personal care products
- Heavy metals like mercury, lead, and cadmium
If high levels are detected, we use detoxification strategies, nutritional support, and lifestyle modifications to reduce toxic burden and enhance the body's ability to eliminate harmful substances.
Final Thoughts
These advanced tests provide unique insights that standard medical evaluations often miss. Whether it's hormones, gut health, cardiovascular risks, genetics, or environmental toxins, personalized testing can help identify underlying drivers of chronic conditions and lead to more effective treatment strategies.
If you’re interested in working with me or have any questions, feel free to reach out or schedule a 15 minute free phone consult. I'm Looking forward to helping you achieve optimal health!
