In our functional medicine practice, we rely heavily on functional laboratory testing. One of the primary functional medicine tests we utilize is the NutrEval from Genova Diagnostics. NutrEval is a functional laboratory analysis test utilizing urine and blood samples. 

What is a NutrEval test?

At its core, the NutrEval is a comprehensive nutritional assessment test. It is designed to evaluate nutritional status, detect nutrient deficiencies, and detect metabolic abnormalities.

What can you learn from a NutrEval test? Advice From a Functional Medicine Doctor in Kansas City

Components of the NutrEval test include: 

• Identification of vitamin, mineral, amino acid, and fatty acid deficiencies
• Assessment of antioxidant status which plays a vital role in protecting cells and reducing inflammation related to oxidative stress
• Analysis of amino acids-amino acids are the building blocks of all proteins in our body, proteins are essential for various biological functions
• Analysis of your fatty acid profile by evaluating omega 3, 6, 7, and 9 fatty acids as well as determining to what extent you are experiencing fatty acid oxidation
• Evaluating your capacity for detoxification by providing insights into your body’s ability to detoxify and eliminate toxins through Phase I and Phase II detoxification pathways
• Assessing mitochondrial function-mitochondria are the energy-producing organelles in our cells, essentially the engine of our cells
• Providing Organic Acid analysis which gives insight into nutrient and metabolic needs
• Analysis of CoQ10 status-CoQ10 is essential for proper mitochondrial function 
• Assessment of neurotransmitter metabolites-this gives insight into your body’s production and balance of serotonin and dopamine, both of which play a huge role in mood stabilization
• Measuring markers of oxidative stress

What conditions benefit from NutrEval testing?

If you struggle with any of the following conditions or are curious about your nutritional status, NutrEval testing may be able to help identify the root cause of your conditions:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Heart disease
• Fatigue
• Brain fog
• Type II Diabetes
• Weight issues
• Gastrointestinal symptoms
• Malnutrition 
• Maldigestion/Malabsorption related to the gut
• Decreased athletic performance

How are samples collected for the NutrEval lab test?

• When we decide to order a NutrEval, our office places the order with Genova. Genova then sends FedEx a collection kit to the patient’s address. This kit contains everything needed for sample collection as well as detailed directions about proper sample collection and how the patient should prepare for sample collection.  Sample collection for this test consists of a urine collection portion and a blood draw portion. In our area, we like to work with Caresticks for the blood draw portion of this test, but you can have your blood drawn at other locations as well. This can be discussed when the test is ordered. 
• We generally recommend patients discontinue all supplements for 5 days before collecting samples for this test. If there is a supplement you feel you cannot discontinue for 5 days, let us know. The NutrEval will evaluate various nutrient and cofactor needs. If you are supplementing when you take the test, that could lead to misinterpretation of the results and improper treatment plan recommendations. 
• We never advise patients to discontinue prescription medications prior to testing, but please be sure to tell us about all prescription medications you are taking as they can impact our interpretation of your results. 
• It’s important to read all instructions for preparation and collection for your NutrEval. In addition to discontinuing vitamins and supplements, there is a 48 oz liquid intake restriction the day before the urine portion of the test is collected. It is also important to collect both the urine and blood samples while fasting. You should also be sure to freeze your freezer brick for a minimum of 8 hours and your urine sample for at least 2 hours before it is given to the person drawing your blood. The person who draws your blood will take your frozen urine sample and include it in the FedEx shipment back to Genova for laboratory analysis. 
• If you are interested in genetic testing for SNPs (gene mutations), you can also collect a cheek swab sample. Add-on SNP testing for NutrEval includes MTHFR, COMT, TNF-a, and APOE.  

If you are interested in a root cause approach to address your health concerns or are seeking to optimize your health, we recommend NutrEval testing as a comprehensive first step. If you have any questions regarding this test or if you’d like to schedule your new patient functional medicine appointment, please let us know. 

Sample NutrEval report: https://www.gdx.net/core/sample-reports/nutreval-plasma-3001-sr.pdf

Functional Medicine Cost of Care in Overland Park

Now that you have a better understanding of things you might discuss with your functional medicine doctor in the Kansas City area, let’s look at what it costs to see Dr. Melinda Griffin in her Overland Park office:

• New Patient Consultation – $300
• Review of Findings and Treatment Plan Appointment – $300
• Follow Up Phone Consultations to monitor treatment progress will be billed at $300 per hour. Follow-up appointments are typically between 15-30 minutes. A follow-up phone call is recommended 2 weeks after beginning supplements, 4 weeks after beginning supplements, then monthly while the active treatment plan is taking place (approximately 6 months).
• Patients should budget $500-$850 for Functional Medicine laboratory testing and $200-$300 per month for supplements.
• Lab interpretation fee of $40 per laboratory test performed.**6 Month Package Available

Functional Medicine, Chiropractic and Acupuncture Services Near Me in Johnson County, Kansas

Ensuring our well-being is crucial for living life to the fullest. Regardless of your health needs, you can trust that you won’t have to face them alone. Our experienced team, consisting of Dr. Melinda and Dr. Mike at Functional Health KC, is here to assist you in achieving your optimal physical wellness. We offer a range of services, including chiropractic care, acupuncture, and functional health services (also referred to as holistic or integrative medicine), while also providing support for your emotional and mental well-being. Conveniently located in Overland Park, a suburb of Kansas City, we proudly serve Johnson, Jackson, and Wyandotte counties.

We also accept specific insurance plans for chiropractic care! If you’re experiencing back pain or other discomforts like headaches, neck pain, or stomach issues, our comprehensive healthcare approach can help you feel better! Don’t stay tired or unmotivated; reach out to us at Functional Health KC today and take a step towards the well-deserved brighter future. As Dr. Landon Taylor puts it, “Health isn’t just about what you consume, but also how you live your life.” So don’t hesitate – schedule an appointment with us at Functional Health KC.