COMPREHENSIVE METABOLIC PROFILE
The nervous system is the master control system of the human body. This is an undisputed fact. Through a complex collection of neurotransmitters, hormones, and biochemical reactions, it is our nervous system's job to monitor the trillions of cells in our body and to maintain control of this complex system through a process called homeostasis. Our bodies are composed of approximately 75 percent water. Each of these 6 trillion plus cells in our bodies is composed mostly of fluid and also individually surrounded by fluid. This fluid is a complex matrix of electrolytes, biochemical compounds, waste products of metabolism, and toxins. Our nervous system constantly strives to maintain a life-sustaining balance in this extremely complex and ever-changing environment.
The chiropractic profession is based on trying to maintain homeostasis through the nervous system by reducing mechanical irritation from the nervous system caused by the subluxation complex. It is becoming increasingly apparent that to further promote our nervous system's ability to maintain homeostasis, nutritional considerations must be evaluated as well. Science is showing that the nutritional value of the food we eat is being negatively altered by production, manufacturing, and storage processes used in mass producing food. We are also continually getting exposed to harmful chemical agents through the food we eat, the water we drink, the air that we breathe, and even through our skin. Many of these agents become locked inside our bodies and become more concentrated over time. The harmful effects of many of these agents are still not fully understood. These toxic agents that we are continually exposed to, along with the decreased nutritional value of the food we eat, make our nervous system's ability to maintain homeostasis very difficuly. When homeostasis is negatively altered our quality of life diminishes and disease starts.
Nurtition is a very complex subject. Many books and articles have been written regarding what is proper nutrition. We are all told that we should be taking this or that but how do we know? Our office has the ability to assess your nutritional needs through a simple blood and urine analysis called a Comprehensive Metabolic Profile. This test will provide us with important information such as which foods your body may be sensitive to that you should avoid, which nutritional compounds need to be increased in your diet, and also which compounds need to be decreased. In other words, it is a customized nutritional assessment based on your individual needs. Once the proper nutritional balance is restored, your nervous system can begin to operate more efficiently in trying to achieve homeostasis. Call our office today to set up an appointment for a Comprehensive Metabolic Profile. Your quality of life depends on it!
Frequently Asked Questions About CMP
1. What is a comprehensive metabolic profile?
The comprehensive metabolic profile is a simple to use, self-contained, take-home kit that allows the patient to collect a morning urine sample and also to do 2 finger sticks to obtain a non-fasting and a fasting blood sample. The samples are then packaged in the enclosed mailer and sent to Metametrix Laboratory for analysis.
2. What information is obtained by this test?
The urinalysis provides information on the level of organic sugars that are being excreted by the body. These organic sugars are biochemical byproducts of metabolism and provide very useful information on how the various metabolic pathways of the body are functioning. Abnormal levels of these organic sugars can indicate certain vitamin deficiencies as well as evidence of environmental toxin metabolism. The two blood analyses will provide information on food sensitivities and also on cellular membrane fatty acid composition.
3. Does the test hurt?
The finger sticks are a little uncomfortable. These are the same types of finger sticks used by diabetics to test their blood sugar.
4. How will this information help the doctor?
A multi-page comprehensive metablic profile will be sent to your doctor by Metametrix in apporximately two weeks from mailing the test. This multi-page document will look at over 30 organic sugars, various essential fatty acids and their ratios, and 20 different possible food sensitivities. When put together this will be a very effective guideline for your doctor to customize a nutritional program that will help bring your various biochemical pathways back into balance, help to eliminate toxic burdens. It will also provide information on which types of foods you should avoid that will help to lower the level of inflammation in your intestines and body. The current thinking in today's scientific literature is that low-level chronic inflammation can trigger a host of degenerative diseases including cardiovascular disease.
5. How much does the test cost and is it covered by insurance?
As of January 1, 2008, Metametrix Laboratories charges $425.00 for this comprehensive metabolic profile. It is not covered by insurance. This fee goes entirely to the laboratory for the test.
6. This seems expensive, why should I do it?
The test fee may present a financial barrier for some patients. But when you think about how much you spend every month on supplements, wouldn't it be nice to know that you are taking exacly the supplements you need in the proper amounts to restore biodhemical alance and not wasting money every month on supplements you do not need or that you may be taking too little or too much of? So in the long run this test may actually help save money by recommending only the supplements that you need.
7. What brand of supplements will I be recommended to take?
Designs for Health, the company that put together this comprehensive metabolic profile, provides high-quality scientific based supplements especially designed to help you restore metabolic homeostasis. Some supplements may be only taken initially, and as balance is restored, may be discontinued.
8. Will I have to take another test?
Retesting may be required for a couple of reasons. For patients who have many metabolic discrepancies found on the initial comprehensive metabolic analysis, or patients whose conditions are not responding favorable, it may be advised to retest in 3 to 6 months. Retesting will help us to determine if the supplements are working properly and if dosages need to be adjusted. Patients who do respond favorable may also wish to re-test in order to determine if some supplements may be discontinued and other dosages may be decreased which can save them money over the long run.
9. How quickly can I expect results?
We must remember that most chronic conditions develop over a long period of time. For example, someone who has a heart attack today and is found to have multiple cardiac vessel plaquing and obstruction via angioplasty, has been slowly developing this problem without symptoms for many years. In many instances, noticeable positive effects may be felt quickly, however a maximum benefit may take four to six months. In some cases patients initially feel worse as toxins are excreted and biochemical pathways readjusted.
10. How can I get more information on Metametrix Laboratories and Designs for Health?
You can visit their website at www.metametrix.com and www.designsforhealth.com
