Do you stand in front of your kitchen cabinet and wonder what vitamins to take; which bottles have already expired; why am I taking this I don't feel any better? Whether you are in good health and want to stay that way, or have conditions and symptoms that you want to clear up, you need to know what supplements are best for YOU. This is what is meant by the term bio-chemical individuality. We are not robots; we all need different things different support, because we have individual body and brain chemistries.

Yes, we are all human (hmmm) and therefore we all have certain common needs, but they differ according to our stress levels, our metabolism, our digestion, our genetics, and the list continues. So how do we know what is right for us what is important for our family members?

The answers are here, becoming more and more refined. I was blown away when I learned of the Bio Terrain testing about ten years ago. I had been (and continue) looking for measurable ways for my patients to self-test and see results in black and white, for themselves. Empowerment is where it's at. Being able to monitor our own daily progress is part of that.

Simple and inexpensive testing is now available that determines exactly what your body needs. It is called The Integra Bio-Terrain System, an integrated testing system providing an objective analysis of each person's nutritional and biochemical status in several areas. Discussing the results of this testing with a patient, enables us to suggest specific nutritional supplements, herbal products, and foods that are pertinent for that individual. People experience faster symptom relief, better energy, and improved quality of life with this targeted system. Done through the urine and saliva, the complete testing includes:

Ketogenics: This urine test for total sugars, including glucose is valuable for diabetes, hypoglycemia, and weight loss.

Adrenal Stress Test: Adrenal stress is a major health concern for our fast paced lifestyles. This urine test is a reliable measurement of adrenal stress or adrenal fatigue. Adrenal stress is one of the major causes of hormone imbalances. This test is an effective measure of energy problems.

Calcium Test: This urine test is a possible indicator for disease-related to calcium deficiency. Calcium deficiency can cause osteoporosis, anxiety, insomnia, and depression.

Chemstrip Urine Test: This is a dipstick test that measures 10 separate urine categories that help screen for nutritional imbalances leading to kidney and liver disorders, tissue degeneration, infections, and chronic disease.

Free Radical Test: Free radical damage causes cell degeneration, chronic diseases and acceleration in the aging processes. This test measures free radical activity byproducts in urine, and can help determine your need for antioxidant vitamins. Free radicals can cause arthritis, fibromyalgia, heart disease, wrinkles and pre-mature aging.

Malabsorption Test: Many digestive issues are caused by enzyme and intestinal flora imbalance, leading to leaky gut, malabsorption of vital nutrients, allergies and inflammatory responses. This urine test screens for the byproducts of harmful anaerobic bacteria and bowel flora imbalance. Dysbiosis (flora imbalance) can cause IBS, Crohn's, constipation and diarrhea.

Urine and Saliva pH Test: The saliva pH test helps to detect deep levels of physical and mental stress. When the body is acidic and robbed of valuable alkaline minerals, disease accelerates. Acidosis can cause digestive problems, osteoporosis, arthritis, fibromyalgia, allergies, vaginal dryness, fatigue and depression.

Vitamin C Test: This urine test determines your Vitamin C status, as it is crucial to your overall health, immune function, brain function and energy. Vitamin C deficiency can cause allergies, fatigue, constipation, and inability to handle physical and emotional stress.

Zinc Taste Test:Zinc is an important mineral for enzyme production and essential for optimal immune and reproductive functions. Zinc deficiency can suppress immune function, cause hyperactivity, poor focus, poor memory, as well as sexual dysfunctions.

Many of these tests are easily performed in the comfort of your home, by taking a urine collection. Each test provides of piece of the puzzle, which viewed collectively, presents important clues about your vitamin, mineral, and antioxidant needs. I have found that most people really appreciate knowing what their nutritional needs are and what their individual solutions are. This is definitely not -one size fits all-. As creative beings, it is important for us to create and -re-create- our own health and wellness.

Dr. Laura Thompson, Family Nutritionist and Naturopathic Endocrinologist has a nationwide practice by phone, and locally in Carlsbad, California. Call for in-home testing info, 800-608-5602.  

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The products suggested, are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Please check with your health care practitioner for your best health options.