When ‘Normal’ Test Results Don’t Feel Normal: What Might Be Occurring
It can be disheartening when test results come back 'normal' despite persistent symptoms. Standard ranges may not align with an individual's unique set points and as a result, someone may fall within the "normal" range but still experience symptoms due to subtle imbalances. In addition, early-stage issues may not yet be detectable or a different test may need to be considered to offer more comprehensive insight into what’s really occurring.
What Might Be Missed?
Here are just a few examples of what may sometimes be overlooked, but can be assessed for with functional testing:
Microbiome Imbalances:
Standard stool tests miss bacterial diversity losses, overgrowths & dysbiosis that can be driving IBS & other gut related symptoms.Vaginal and Urinary Microbiome Disruptions:
Recurrent UTIs, AV, or BV aren’t always caused by common microbes, so causative microbes may be missed with some test approaches.SIBO/IMO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth/Intestinal Methane Overproduction): Breath tests are needed to detect SIBO or IMO but these tests are not routinely ordered as part of an investigation for bloating, diarrhoea, or constipation.
Blood Sugar Dysregulation:
You might have “normal” fasting blood glucose - but significant insulin resistance developing underneath that could be missed without deeper testing.Nutrient Deficiencies:
You can be "in range" but not optimal for critical nutrients like iron, B12, folate, magnesium, or zinc.
Why a Functional Perspective Matters
Functional naturopathic care looks at your health differently:
It asks, "Are you functioning optimally?"
It considers patterns, not just isolated markers.
It acknowledges that symptoms
When we work together, I carefully assess your history, your symptoms, your existing pathology - and when needed, recommend targeted functional testing to provide deeper insights.
How I Dig Deeper
Here’s a snapshot of how I approach cases where standard testing says "normal" but you still feel unwell:
Step 1: Comprehensive Case Taking
In your first consultation, we’ll take a detailed, layered health history.
Often, patterns emerge here that never had space to be noticed before.
Step 2: Smart Testing (If Needed)
Depending on your symptoms and goals, I may recommend:
Gut microbiome testing (e.g., Co-Biome MetaXplore)
Breath testing for SIBO & IMO
Vaginal microbiome analysis (eg. Juno Bio)
Blood glucose and insulin investigations
Comprehensive Nutrient status evaluations We test strategically - not to overwhelm you with results, but to give clear, meaningful direction.
Step 3: Personalised Care Plans
Based on your findings and your lived experience, we’ll build a step-by-step plan - designed for real healing, not just symptom management.
If This Feels Familiar, You’re Not Alone
So many of the patients I work with - whether for chronic gut issues, recurrent UTIs, or chronic fatigue - arrive feeling confused and disheartened having not found the answers they need.
Together, we change the narrative.
Through detailed assessment, evidence-based testing, and person-centred naturopathic care, we create a new path forward - one where you are listened to, understood, and supported at every step.
If you’re ready to feel empowered again, I’d love to help.
