Why Additional Annual Labs Matter (And What Your Doctor Might Be Missing)
By Dee Davidson, Functional Health Practitioner
We’re taught that if we get an annual physical and routine blood work from our primary care doctor, we’re being proactive about our health. But for many high-performing women (and men), those basic labs often come back “normal”... even when we don’t feel normal.
Here’s the truth: Traditional labs like a CBC, lipid panel, or basic thyroid check are helpful—but they’re just scratching the surface. They’re designed to detect disease, not dysfunction. And if you’re feeling tired, bloated, gaining weight without changing your habits, struggling with your hormones, or just “off” in your body, chances are you’re dealing with a functional imbalance that your standard blood work simply won’t catch.
This is where functional labs come in.
Functional testing allows us to get to the root cause of what’s happening in your body—before it becomes something more serious.
Two of the most powerful tools I offer my clients annually are:
HTMA (Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis): This test shows mineral patterns, adrenal health, metabolic rate, and toxic heavy metals—key factors that influence energy, sleep, mood, and hormone balance.
GI Stool Test: This is our gut detective—looking at good and bad bacteria, inflammation, H. pylori, yeast, parasites, leaky gut markers, and more. Your gut is foundational to your immune system, hormones, liver and detox pathways.
These two tests are a game-changer when it comes to preventing burnout, regulating your nervous system, balancing hormones, and truly feeling vibrant in your body.
Curious how functional labs transformed my own health journey?
Click here to learn more about how I used functional labs to elevate my health and energy—and see what’s possible for you.
What My Clients Are Saying “I thought I was doing everything right… but I was exhausted and gaining weight anyway. The GI test showed me the exact bacteria I needed to address. I feel like myself again!” – Laura R.
“The HTMA revealed copper toxicity and adrenal burnout that explained everything. Now I know how to support my body instead of guessing.” – Kristen M.
Why “Normal” Isn’t Always Optimal
Doctors often tell patients that their labs are “normal.” But normal doesn’t mean optimal. It doesn’t mean you’re thriving—it just means you don’t currently meet the criteria for a diagnosable condition.
Functional ranges give us the opportunity to intervene early—to course-correct and prevent the crash so many people experience in their 30s, 40s, and beyond.
Annual functional testing is a powerful form of preventive health care. It's not about chasing symptoms. It’s about catching the imbalances your body is quietly signaling before they turn into diagnoses, medication, or surgery.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you're feeling like your doctor’s labs aren’t giving you the full picture—or if you’re just ready to finally feel in control of your health again—I invite you to start with the HTMA and GI stool test. These tests are affordable, at-home, and incredibly insightful.
Learn more about functional lab testing and book your personalized review session here.
Medical disclaimer: This blog is for educational purposes only and not intended to diagnose, treat, or replace medical advice. Always consult your physician before starting any new health protocol.
Dee Davidson is a Functional Health Practitioner, hormone health expert, and advocate for personalized health and integrative care. With a focus on functional health and functional nutrition, Dee provides bio-individualized solutions to help clients restore balance. To learn more about how functional lab testing, functional medicine, and a holistic health approach can support your wellness journey, listen to her Confidently Balance Your Hormones podcast or schedule a discovery call at ConfidentlyLoveYourself.com.