Why Your Labs Say “Normal” but You Still Feel Miserable

TLDR: Standard labs can miss the root causes of fatigue, bloating, brain fog, and mood swings. Our functional lab testing goes deeper to uncover what your body really needs.

You’re exhausted, bloated, moody, and frustrated. Your doctor runs the usual bloodwork and says everything looks normal. But deep down, you know something is off.

Sound familiar? You’re not alone. Many women are told their labs are “fine,” but still feel miserable. Traditional lab tests don’t catch the early signs of imbalance. Functional lab testing helps uncover the missing pieces.

Do You Feel Like This?

Waking up tired, even after 8 hours of sleep
Struggling to lose weight despite doing everything right
Dealing with unpredictable digestion, bloating, or discomfort
Mood swings that feel like a rollercoaster
Brain fog that makes it hard to think clearly

If this is you, and your labs say you’re fine, it’s time to look deeper.

Why Standard Labs Miss the Mark

Standard ranges are based on averages, not on what helps you feel your best
You can be “in range” and still feel awful
Traditional care waits for disease, not dysfunction

Normal vs. Optimal Lab Ranges

Take thyroid health for example:

TSH — Standard: 0.5 – 4.5 mIU/L | Optimal: 0.5 – 2.5 mIU/L
Vitamin D — Standard: 20+ ng/mL | Optimal: 50 – 80 ng/mL
Ferritin — Standard: 10 – 120 ng/mL | Optimal: 50 – 90 ng/mL

Just because it’s normal doesn’t mean it’s right for you.

How We Do Functional Lab Testing Differently

Comprehensive Analysis: We go beyond surface-level numbers
Optimal Interpretation: Using functional ranges, not outdated norms
Root-Cause Focus: We uncover what’s driving your symptoms

What We Commonly Test

Thyroid: TSH, Free T3, Free T4, Reverse T3, antibodies
Hormones: Cortisol, estrogen, progesterone, testosterone
Nutrients: Iron, B12, magnesium, vitamin D, zinc
Inflammation: CRP, homocysteine
Gut & Metabolism: Blood sugar markers, stool testing, microbiome

Why Guess When You Can Test?

If you’re tired of random diets, generic advice, or feeling dismissed, it’s time to look under the hood. Data doesn’t lie. And your body has been asking for answers all along.

Next Step: Let’s Get to the Root

Imagine waking up energized, eating without discomfort, and finally feeling like yourself again. That starts with the right testing and the right plan. Apply to work with us here.

Science-Backed Testing That Makes a Difference

Gut Microbiome: Identify dysbiosis and leaky gut with stool testing
Nutritional Panels: Blood and hair testing for essential nutrients
Hormone Mapping: Saliva and urine analysis to track cortisol and sex hormones
Inflammation Markers: Pinpoint the “why” behind fatigue and pain
Lab Partners: All tests run through CLIA-certified labs using advanced techniques

We Don’t Guess. We Test.

Whether you’re dealing with mood swings, stubborn weight, or energy crashes, our process helps you finally understand why—and what to do about it. It’s time to feel like you again.

FAQ: Functional Lab Testing

Why do standard lab tests say I’m fine when I feel awful?

Because standard ranges are based on population averages, not on what makes you feel optimal. Functional testing looks for early dysfunction, not just disease.

Do I need a referral for functional lab testing?

Nope! We order and interpret labs directly as part of your personalized plan.

Can you test for gut health and food sensitivities?

Yes. We offer comprehensive stool testing, microbiome analysis, and food sensitivity panels.

What labs do you use?

We work with CLIA-certified functional labs that use advanced testing methods for accurate results. Tests often include full blood panels, hormone mapping, gut testing, and hair tissue mineral analysis.

Is functional lab testing covered by insurance?

We do not file with insurance, but we do offer payment plans, accept FSA/HSA, and offer many labs at wholesale pricing. We may also be able to use recent labs you’ve already done and will only recommend tests that are essential to your plan’s success.

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Hey There, I'm Nicole!

Nicole Fennell is a functional nutrition Dietitian—and a fellow Hashimoto’s patient—who understands firsthand the challenges of living with thyroid hormone imbalances and immune system dysfunction. Her approach to managing chronic disease and stubborn symptoms focuses on building the body up with enjoyable and realistic nourishment rather than breaking it down with restrictive, unrealistic, short-term diets.

With a real-food philosophy, Nicole emphasizes the power of nutrition, movement, and peace of mind in both disease prevention and long-term health. Outside of her work, she loves staying active with her husband and three kids, lifting weights, practicing yoga, walking, cooking, enjoying good food, and spending time outdoors.

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Want to kickstart your journey without feeling overwhelmed? Checkout our free thyroid warrior resources to feel empowered as you navigate your health journey

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Whether you’re dealing with exhaustion that never ends, a Hashimoto's diagnosis, thyroid issues, hormone imbalances, painful PMS, or stubborn acne that just won’t quit—please know you’re not alone. At Chews Food Wisely, we’re all about connecting the dots between your never ending list of symptoms and personalized nutrition solutions that last.