When interpreting blood test results, there are two key reference ranges:
✔ Pathological Range – Used in conventional medicine to diagnose and treat disease.
✔ Functional Range – A narrower, optimal range used to detect early imbalances.

Pathological lab ranges are based on population data, but as chronic disease becomes more common, these ranges may shift. Functional ranges help identify risks before they become diagnosable conditions, allowing for early intervention to restore balance and support overall health. Because lab reference ranges can vary based on population data and testing methods, a balanced, holistic approach —  is one that considers both functional and pathological markers alongside symptoms and medical history.

Your gut microbiome plays a vital role in digestion, immunity, hormone regulation, and mental well-being. While standard stool tests offer only a limited snapshot—mainly detecting a few pathogens—the GI-MAP (Gastrointestinal Microbial Assay Plus) provides a comprehensive analysis using advanced DNA technology. Unlike conventional tests, the GI-MAP assesses:

✔ Pathogens & Overgrowth – Detecting bacteria (including H. pylori), parasites, yeast, and worms

✔ Digestive Function – Enzyme activity, fat breakdown, and absorption efficiency

✔ Inflammation – Markers for immune response

✔ Microbiome Diversity – A detailed breakdown of beneficial vs. harmful bacteria

By looking beyond the basics, the GI-MAP identifies imbalances that standard tests miss, helping to uncover the causes of symptoms like bloating, fatigue, skin issues, and hormone imbalances. With this data, we create a personalized plan to restore gut health and optimize your overall well-being.

Not all food reactions are the same. Many people get tested for IgE (Type I) food allergies, which cause immediate reactions like swelling, hives, or breathing issues. However, when these tests come back negative, lingering symptoms are often dismissed—despite ongoing discomfort.
The key difference?
✔ IgE allergies trigger an immediate immune response (e.g., anaphylaxis, rashes).
✔ IgG food sensitivities cause a delayed reaction, leading to inflammation, bloating, fatigue, skin issues, and more—often appearing hours or up to 3 days later.

Because IgG reactions are delayed, it’s difficult to identify trigger foods without testing. I offer the KBMO FIT Test, a functional food sensitivity panel that detects IgG food sensitivities and limits the suspects. This test is used in combination with the GI-MAP to create a very personalized nutrition plan.

The quality of lab testing plays a crucial role in achieving your health goals. In conventional healthcare, if no pathology is identified, you’re often deemed “healthy.” However, disease doesn’t develop overnight—it builds over time, with early warning signs often overlooked. Functional lab testing focuses on identifying early trends that could lead to health issues, offering a window of opportunity to restore normal function before medication is needed. By evaluating test results through a functional lens, we focus on supporting the body’s overall well-being, not just diagnosing diseases. 

At Pause.Breathe.Live, functional ranges are used to assess optimal health, not just the absence of disease. Most importantly, the approach is holistic, considering your overall well-being through comprehensive paperwork, consultations and testing.