If you’ve ever had a doctor’s visit where your lab results come back “normal,” but you still don’t feel right, you’re not alone. It’s a common scenario that many people experience—especially when it comes to understanding the nuances between “normal” lab ranges and optimal health. Let’s break down why blood work might not always paint the full picture.
Normal vs. Optimal Lab Ranges
Mainstream medicine relies on broad reference ranges for lab results, often based on averages from both sick and healthy individuals. These ranges can be wide and don’t always indicate optimal health. For example, a white blood cell count might fall within the “normal” range, but a functional medicine provider might recognize that a number on the lower end could signal a hidden infection or immune system stress.
Patterns Matter More Than Individual Results
In conventional medicine, blood work is often evaluated on a case-by-case basis. However, a functional medicine approach looks at patterns across different tests. These patterns can give us a clearer picture of underlying issues—like chronic infections, mineral imbalances, or immune dysfunction—that might not be immediately obvious.
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Biofilms and Hidden Infections
One key factor that conventional medicine often overlooks is biofilms—protective layers created by pathogens that allow them to evade the immune system. These biofilms can make it harder to spot infections or imbalances in standard blood tests. The result? A normal test result despite underlying issues.
Prevention is Key
Waiting for lab results to show “out-of-range” levels can be too late. A proactive, preventative approach—where we assess both blood work and overall symptoms—helps catch potential issues early, before they lead to bigger health problems. Keeping a close eye on your health with regular tests and functional assessments can make a big difference over time.
Your Health Journey Doesn’t End With Normal Lab Results
Remember, feeling off is never something to ignore. If you’re ready to get to the root cause of your symptoms, it’s time to advocate for your health and seek a deeper understanding of what your body might be trying to tell you.
Stay proactive, stay healthy!