Course Overview:

This Module represents a  methodical assessment of standard blood test results through the functional nutrition lens that helps uncover subtle imbalances, that when supported, help to ensure optimal health. Just because your labs are in the “normal range” doesn’t necessarily mean they’re optimal. It is important practitioners understand this process, not typically included in conventional training, as it can represent a key aspect of the full Functional Nutrition process and help to ensure more successful case outcomes.

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Objectives and Additional Practice Learning Practice Exercise (Optional):

Objectives:

Upon completion of this unit, participants will be able to….

1: Compare and contrast the differences between functional lab ranges and standard lab ranges
2: List the general categories included in the Complete Metabolic Panel (CMP), as well as all tests included in this panel
3: Analyze the CMP to interpret key relationships between tests
4: Identify all tests and test patterns included in the Complete Blood Count (CBC)
5: Classify and interpret White Blood Cell (WBC) lab results
6: Evaluate lab results to differentiate between anemia types
7: Interpret thyroid labs from the functional perspective
8. Recognize the significance of acute phase reactant and immunoglobulin biomarkers

 

Practice Exercises:

Exercise 1: Convert standard lab ranges to functional lab ranges for yourself or a patient. Share with a colleague how the lab interpretation changed when using the functional lab ranges.

Exercise 2: Calculate the sodium/chloride ratio using a patient’s labs. Explain what the result indicates.

Exercise 3: Calculate the calcium/albumin ratio using a patient’s labs. Explain what the result indicates.

Exercise 4: Make a reference card of labs that indicate dehydration, and those that indicate over-hydration.

Exercise 5: Describe how deficiencies of zinc and vit D impact alkaline phosphatase.

Exercise 6: Summarize in your own words the ‘Iron Tiger’ article found in the handout section.

Exercise 7: Indicate for each anemia covered in this course, the nutrition intervention needed, i.e. supplement iron, another nutrient. Does one of the 6 Core Centers of Health need to be addressed and when.

Exercise 8: Read a reference article from the 18-19 COT Blood Chem references found in the handout section.

Exercise 9: Based on lab results from a patient or yourself, identify which of the 6 Core Centers of Health are imbalanced. Use the ‘Key Lab Summary COT’ located in the handout section.

Exercise 10: Role play having a conversation with a physician describing the need for further bloodwork. Be specific in providing rationale for the tests you are recommending.

Exercise 11: Read one of the articles on the thyroid reference list found on the slides.

Exercise 12: Calculate the FT3 and rT3 ratio using a patient’s labs. Explain what the result indicates.

Exercise 13: Discuss with a colleague or class participant the process of assessing a patient’s thyroid function.

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Helpful Links: 

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Course Sections

Module 1	Functional Blood Chemistry Interpretation
Unit 1	Functional Blood Chemistry Interpretation - Slides/Handouts
Unit 2	Optimal Values Virtual Workshop
Unit 3	Practicum Sessions
Unit 4	BONUS Webinar - Blood Testing and Interpretation Services