Early Detection Wins: Rethinking Lab Tests with Functional Ranges

Aug 14, 2024

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In this eye-opening episode of ReInvent Healthcare, Dr. Ritamarie Loscalzo uncovers the critical differences between conventional and functional medicine in interpreting lab test results. Discover why the standard approach may be missing the mark, and how functional lab ranges can provide a more accurate picture of your health. Tune in to learn why early detection is key to preventing chronic illness and optimizing your well-being.

What You Will Learn In This Episode:

The inherent limitations of conventional lab tests and what they might be missing.
The powerful advantages of using functional lab ranges to detect imbalances before they become major health issues.
Why catching imbalances early is crucial for preventing chronic diseases and maintaining optimal health.
The specific markers and tests that can reveal hidden imbalances and guide more personalized care.

Key Terms In This Episode:

Functional Lab Ranges: Derived from a healthier population, functional lab ranges are typically narrower than conventional ranges. They focus on identifying early imbalances that could lead to chronic conditions, aiming to optimize health and prevent disease before it starts.
Conventional Lab Ranges: These standard reference ranges are based on averages from a general population that includes both healthy and unhealthy individuals. Conventional lab ranges are often used to diagnose diseases that have already developed, potentially overlooking early signs of imbalance.
Subclinical Imbalances: These are subtle, often symptom-free changes in the body that fall outside the optimal range but don't yet meet the criteria for a disease diagnosis. Functional medicine prioritizes detecting and addressing these imbalances early to prevent the progression to overt disease.

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