Ep 40. Test don't guess with Dee Davidson
Are you tired of playing trial-and-error with your health, hoping the next supplement or diet finally fixes your fatigue, bloating, or stubborn weight gain? In a recent podcast episode, I sat down with functional health practitioner and hormone expert Dee Davidson to explore why embracing the right tests can make all the difference. Rather than relying on guesswork or generic fixes, personalized lab work offers a direct path to understanding your body—and creating solutions tailored just for you.
Section 1: Why “Test, Don’t Guess”
Dee highlights the problem many of us face: either we’re not testing enough and missing key insights, or we’re bombarded with so many tests that we get overwhelmed and our wallets are drained. Using a strategic approach, she recommends running labs that align with each person’s unique symptoms and health history. This not only saves money and time but also pinpoints the root causes behind issues like fatigue, digestive troubles, and hormone imbalances.
Section 2: The Power of a Thorough Intake
Before running any labs, Dee starts with an extensive intake questionnaire. This deep dive into current and past symptoms can reveal patterns in sleep, digestion, energy, and mood—often hinting at the system that needs the most attention. By reviewing these clues, she narrows down which tests will offer the most helpful data, such as hair tissue mineral analysis (HTMA) or advanced hormone panels like the Dutch test.
Section 3: Key Labs to Consider
Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis (HTMA): A non-invasive way to spot mineral deficiencies, potential heavy metal toxicity, and how your adrenals or thyroid might be coping with stress.
Comprehensive Stool Test: Looks beyond gut bacteria to assess liver function, immune health, and inflammation markers—all crucial for long-term wellness.
Dutch Hormone Test: Explores hormone metabolism and cortisol rhythms. Unlike basic blood work, it shows whether your hormones are truly “bioavailable” or merely floating around in the bloodstream.
Section 4: Matching Labs to Lifestyle
While advanced tests can reveal a wealth of knowledge, Dee emphasizes balance. Not everyone needs 10 different labs. A single test may highlight weaknesses in nutrient intake or show how stress is taxing your adrenals—empowering you to make targeted lifestyle, diet, and supplement changes without overwhelm.
By trading in guesswork for data-driven insights, you can finally tackle lingering symptoms at their source. From hair analysis to cutting-edge hormone panels, the right tests help you tailor your approach and see real, lasting changes. If you’re ready to stop spinning your wheels and take charge of your health, consider seeking a practitioner who uses targeted testing to guide every step of your journey.
Learn more about Dee Davidson:
Dee Davidson is a Functional Health Practitioner, hormone health expert, and advocate for personalized health and integrative care. With a focus on functional health and functional nutrition, Dee provides bio-individualized solutions to help clients restore balance.