Functional Nutritional Profile

 

Learn More about our Functional Nutritional Profile

Blood test (phlebotomy)

The functional nutritional profile is a comprehensive analysis of a number of minerals, vitamins, fatty acids and antioxidants in the body. Measuring your nutritional status is important for many chronic conditions and even just for general health. This allows your Nutritionist to tailor your nutrition and supplement plan for a targeted approach.

Phlebotomy can be carried out at our Dublin clinic or locations around the country. Please enquire with our team. Phlebotomy carries an additional charge.

This test measures:

  • Minerals (in whole blood): zinc, selenium, copper, zinc, calcium, red cell magnesium, potassium and ferritin as a measure of iron stores
  • Serum vitamins: vitamin A, Vitamin E, Vitamin D
  • Omega-3 index: measurement of 25 different fatty acids as a marker of anti-inflammatory and protective omega-3 fats in red cell membranes versus pro-inflammatory omega-6, saturated fats, trans fatty acids.
  • Antioxidant status: super oxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPX)

Miranda did a Functional Nutritional Profile blood test to optimise her nutrient status as she was trying to conceive. An personalised dietary and supplement protocol was designed to address her deficiencies and optimise nutrients for pregnancy.

Key Findings:

  • Elevated levels of oxidative stress were detected which can impact on egg quality and health of the embryo
  • Iron stores were low which would be important to correct before pregnancy
  • Vitamin D was low normal, important for health of the pregnancy and development of the foetus, especially if pregnant over the winter months
  • Iodine levels were optimal for pregnancy
  • Low levels of selenium which can impact the immune system
  • Low levels of omega-3 which was due to absence of fish in the diet

Functional Nutritional Profile FAQ

How can this test help me feel better?
The Functional Nutritional Profile (FNP) provides a comprehensive snapshot of your nutrient status, antioxidant capacity, and fatty acid balance. Imbalances in minerals, vitamins, antioxidants, or fatty acids can contribute to fatigue, poor recovery, brain fog, stress intolerance, or immune dysfunction. By identifying these functional gaps, we can develop a targeted, personalised nutrition and supplementation plan to support energy, wellbeing, and long-term health.
I’ve already done blood tests with my GP, how is this different?
Routine GP blood tests usually focus on standard serum markers and basic nutrient levels, which often only includes B12, folate and iron. Standard bloods do not include many other vitamins and minerals critical for optimal health, nor antioxidant capacity, or fatty acid balance for example. The FNP is a specialised functional blood test that measures: • Red cell minerals like magnesium and zinc • Serum vitamins A, D, and E • Antioxidant enzymes such as glutathione peroxidase (GPX) and CoQ10 • Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in red cell membranes These markers are not typically evaluated in standard GP testing, so the FNP provides a deeper, functional insight into how your body is actually using nutrients. This allows us to design precise, personalised nutrition and supplementation plans.
Can this test help with male and female fertility?
Yes. Fertility depends on nutrient availability, antioxidant capacity, and fatty acid balance, all of which are measured in the FNP blood test. • For men: zinc, selenium, CoQ10, and omega-3 support sperm quality, motility, and DNA integrity. • For women: vitamin D, antioxidants, and omega-3 influence egg quality, ovulation, and reproductive hormone balance. By identifying functional deficiencies in your blood markers, we can develop a personalised nutrition plan to optimise reproductive health.
I have Long Covid/ME/CFS – can this test help me?
Yes. Persistent fatigue, brain fog, and immune dysregulation are often linked to nutrient deficiencies, oxidative stress, or fatty acid imbalances, which can be detected through the FNP blood test. By measuring red cell and serum nutrients, antioxidant enzymes, and omega-3 fatty acids, we can identify functional gaps that standard blood tests may miss, allowing us to create a targeted plan to support energy production, recovery, and resilience. However, If you’re experiencing complex, multi-system symptoms, there may be other tests better suited as a starting point. Please speak with us first so we can guide you to the most appropriate options.
I actually feel great; can this test still help with aspects like performance or supplement planning?
Absolutely. The FNP blood test is also a precision tool for optimisation. Even if you feel well, it can reveal subtle nutrient gaps that may affect: • Energy and recovery • Cognitive function • Inflammation and cellular resilience By testing functional nutrient status in your blood, we can create a data-driven, personalised supplementation and dietary plan to support performance, longevity, and overall health.
Can I add anything else onto this test?
Yes — optional add-ons allow for an even more complete functional picture: • B vitamin panel: B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B12, including markers of cellular activity • Iodine urine test • Amino acid profile These add-ons can be discussed with your Nutritionist to ensure your testing is tailored to your specific health or performance goals.