Functional gut testing is often the moment when everything finally clicks for people struggling with chronic gut issues.

Why?
Because it gives us what guesswork never can: clarity.
Not just on what’s wrong—but on why you feel the way you do, and how to fix it.

What Is Functional Testing (and How Is It Different)?

Functional testing is a type of lab work that goes beyond standard bloodwork or NHS stool tests.
It looks at how your gut is actually functioning, which includes:

  • Digestive enzyme output
  • Pathogens like parasites, yeast, and harmful bacteria
  • Beneficial bacterial strains (or lack of them)
  • Inflammation markers (like calprotectin, secretory IgA)
  • Leaky gut indicators (zonulin)
  • Short-chain fatty acids (energy for your gut lining)
  • Fat, protein, and carbohydrate digestion

It’s the difference between a symptom-focused approach and a systems-based one.

Why Symptoms Are Misleading Without Data

Let’s say you have bloating after eating.
This could be caused by:

  • Low stomach acid
  • Bacterial overgrowth
  • Yeast overgrowth
  • Food sensitivities
  • Gut-brain axis dysregulation
  • Sluggish bile flow
  • Poor enzyme production
  • Or a mix of all the above

Each of those root causes requires a completely different approach.
But without testing, you’re left guessing—and often making things worse with the wrong interventions.

Common Conditions Where Functional Testing Is a Game-Changer

IBS & Unexplained Bloating

Most “IBS” cases are misdiagnosed symptoms of dysbiosis, parasites, or digestive insufficiency. Testing reveals what’s really going on.

Chronic Constipation or Diarrhoea

Often linked to low enzyme output, gut-brain dysfunction, or microbial imbalances—all testable and treatable.

Fatigue, Brain Fog, and Nutrient Deficiencies

Poor digestion means poor nutrient absorption—testing helps us correct this from the root.

Skin Conditions (Acne, Rosacea, Eczema)

Skin often reflects gut dysfunction. Inflammatory markers, pathogens, or poor elimination can all show up in stool testing.

What Tests I Use in Practice

The most common tests I run include:

Comprehensive Stool Test (GI 360)
Looks at pathogens, beneficial flora, inflammation, immune markers, and digestion. Gold standard for stool testing.

SIBO Breath Test
Helps identify bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine, which is a common root of bloating and discomfort after eating.

Bloodwork
Bloodwork helps build a broader picture of what’s impacting health and digestion—from nutrient deficiencies to underlying inflammation or hormonal imbalances.

Client Case Study: Anna’s Journey

Anna came to me after 18 months of unpredictable bloating, fatigue, and bathroom issues. She’d been told she had IBS and was given dietary advice—but no relief.

We ran a comprehensive stool test. Here’s what we found:

  • Low levels of beneficial flora
  • Elevated calprotectin (inflammation)
  • A protozoan parasite
  • Poor fat digestion markers

We built a targeted plan with antimicrobial support, gut lining repair, and digestive aid.

Within 6 weeks, her bloating was down. Her energy was up. And she was tolerating more foods without fear.

When Should You Test (and When You Shouldn’t)?

Testing isn’t always the first step—and that’s okay.
If your symptoms are mild, recent, and responsive to foundational changes (like improving your diet, sleep, and stress), you may not need testing just yet.

But you should consider it if:

  • Symptoms have lasted more than 6 months
  • You’ve tried multiple approaches with minimal results
  • You’re reacting to “safe” foods or struggling to reintroduce
  • You feel like there’s more going on beneath the surface

Where Functional Testing Fits in My 1:1 Program

Testing is one tool—not the whole toolbox.
But when used correctly, it removes months (even years) of guesswork.
In my 1:1 program, we use testing to:

  • Personalise your plan
  • Avoid over-restricting
  • Build a clear path toward long-term symptom resolution

The result? Faster, deeper, more sustainable progress.

Want to Get to the Root of Your Gut Issues?

If you’re done with guesswork, chasing symptoms, and hoping the next protocol works—let’s find out what’s really going on.

👉 Click here to book your free discovery call
We’ll talk through your history, your current symptoms, and whether testing is the right next step for you.