specialized testing

Testing allows us to truly understand your unique physiological requirements and barriers to health, and ensures we are targeting treatment appropriately

Specialized Testing in Toronto

At The Clara Clinic, we believe that understanding your body from the inside out is the key to achieving long-term wellness. Our specialized testing services in Toronto go far beyond standard lab work—offering you a deeper, more comprehensive look at your unique physiology so we can design the most effective treatment plan possible.

What is Specialized Testing?

Specialized testing refers to advanced diagnostic tests that provide more in-depth insight into your health compared to routine testing done by your medical doctor. These tests include a range of modalities such as:

• Blood testing

• Saliva testing

• Urine analysis

• Stool testing

These functional and integrative tests allow us to evaluate how your body is functioning at a deeper level. Whether you're struggling with unexplained fatigue, digestive issues, hormone imbalances, or chronic illness, specialized lab work helps us get to the root of the problem—so we can treat it accurately and effectively.

Why Is Testing Important?

At The Clara Clinic, we don't guess—we test. Functional testing is a cornerstone of our naturopathic approach, ensuring that every recommendation is rooted in objective data. Here's why it's so valuable:

• Personalized treatment: Testing uncovers the exact imbalances and deficiencies unique to you.

• Increased treatment success: Knowing your baseline allows us to track your progress and adjust your care with precision.

• Time and cost efficiency: By eliminating guesswork, we reduce the time it takes to feel better—and the resources spent getting there.

Whether you’re seeking preventative health insights or trying to solve a chronic condition, specialized testing offers a powerful roadmap to healing.

Types of Tests We Offer

Hormonal Testing

serum hormonal testing

Standard blood hormone testing to assess levels such as estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, LH, FSH, DHEA, and more. Ideal for identifying basic hormonal imbalances and assessing endocrine function.

urine hormonal testing

A comprehensive look at hormone production and metabolism. This dried urine test offers insight into cortisol rhythms, estrogen detoxification pathways, and androgen activity. Excellent for more complex hormonal concerns.

ovarian reserve testing

This test measures Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH), which provides insight into egg quantity. Often used in fertility planning or assessment of reproductive health in women of all ages.

prostate health testing

This includes testing PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) and other relevant markers to monitor prostate health, screen for early changes, and support men’s hormonal wellness.

4-Point Salivary Cortisol Testing

This test maps your cortisol curve throughout the day, offering crucial insight into how your body handles stress. Imbalances can contribute to burnout, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and hormone dysregulation.

Digestive Testing

gi map + gi 360

These stool tests analyze gut microbiome diversity, pathogens, inflammation, and digestion markers. Ideal for IBS, IBD, bloating, chronic fatigue, or unexplained health concerns.

sibo testing

A non-invasive breath test to assess small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)—a common cause of bloating, gas, and inconsistent bowel habits. Results help guide precise antimicrobial or dietary interventions.

food sensitivity testing

IgG-mediated blood testing that detects delayed food reactions, which may contribute to symptoms like migraines, skin issues, bloating, and fatigue. Useful for those with non-specific symptoms or inflammatory conditions.

h. pylori breath testing

A simple and accurate breath test to detect the presence of H. pylori—a bacteria linked to ulcers, gastritis, and digestive dysfunction. Essential for anyone with chronic reflux or upper abdominal discomfort.

Comprehensive Healthy Living Assessments

These assessments provide a broad overview of your current health, identifying nutrient deficiencies, organ function imbalances, and key risk factors for disease. Great for anyone wanting to be proactive about their health.

Includes panels for:

• Blood sugar regulation

• Cardiovascular markers

• Liver and kidney function

• Inflammation and immune markers

• Essential nutrients (iron, B12, vitamin D, and more)

Perfect for annual checkups or starting a new health journey with clarity and confidence.

Autoimmune Testing

Autoimmune testing screens for antibodies and immune system markers that may indicate your body is attacking its own tissues. Early detection can be crucial for effective intervention.

Common markers include:

• ANA (antinuclear antibodies)

• Rheumatoid Factor

• Thyroid antibodies (TPO, TG)

• Celiac disease panels

Methylation Testing

This test evaluates key nutrients and markers involved in your body’s methylation process—specifically B9 (folate), B12, and homocysteine. These are essential for supporting detoxification, hormone balance, and healthy cellular function. While this panel provides a surface-level look at your methylation pathways, it’s a helpful tool to ensure you have the necessary cofactors and that methylation is functioning efficiently. If these foundational markers are in balance, it generally suggests that the rest of the pathway is running smoothly.

Organic Acid Testing

This comprehensive urine test offers a deep dive into your body's metabolic health. By measuring byproducts of key biochemical processes, OAT provides insight into how well your body is producing and utilizing nutrients like B vitamins, as well as neurotransmitters like serotonin, melatonin, dopamine, and more. It's also the most effective way to detect Candida overgrowth—often missed by other tests—and offers valuable information about your gut microbiome and overall digestive function.

Nutritional Status Testing

These tests assess levels of essential vitamins and minerals to identify deficiencies that may be impacting your health.

For a full and detailed list of the tests we offer, please contact the clinic directly at info@theclaraclinic.com, or 647-954-1639.

Who Should Consider Specialized Testing?

Whether you're feeling “off” but can’t quite pinpoint why, or you're looking to prevent future health problems, specialized testing is for you. It’s particularly useful for people dealing with:

• Chronic fatigue or low energy

• Hormonal concerns (PMS, menopause, PCOS)

• Fertility challenges

• Digestive complaints (bloating, IBS, reflux)

• Skin issues (eczema, acne, psoriasis)

• Unexplained mood changes or brain fog

• Immune dysfunction or autoimmune conditions

Even if you're currently symptom-free, baseline testing provides valuable data that can help you stay well—and age well.

Are These Tests Covered by OHIP or Insurance?

Since The Clara Clinic operates as a private integrative health practice, specialized lab tests are not covered by OHIP. However, many extended health benefits plans do offer reimbursement for certain tests. We recommend contacting your insurance provider directly to find out what may be covered under your plan.

Our Approach to Specialized Testing

At The Clara Clinic, we take the time to understand your health history and concerns before recommending any testing. During your initial naturopathic consultation, your Naturopathic Doctor will thoroughly assess your symptoms, lifestyle, and medical history. From there, we’ll recommend only the tests that are clinically indicated—so you get answers, not overwhelm.

Once your results are in, we’ll review them in detail with you and build a customized treatment plan to support your goals, whether that means restoring energy, improving digestion, balancing hormones, or addressing chronic illness.

Ready to Learn What’s Going On Beneath The Surface?

Let’s uncover what your body is trying to tell you—so you can start healing with clarity and confidence. Book your appointment today and take the first step toward truly personalized care.

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