Metabolism includes all these biochemical activities that take place at a cellular level and are necessary in order to perform the functions of the human body. These structural and complex biochemical reactions ultimately determine the energy at a cellular level, but also the state of operation in the organs and tissues of the body.
Laboratory testing of metabolic activity helps us to accurately detect the metabolic profile of the organism under consideration, thus giving us valuable clinical information about possible hormonal and metabolic disorders, which in turn affect the homeostasis of the body.
How and Why are Organic Acids measured in a urine sample?
Organic acids are small molecules, produced as by-products of cellular activity, digestion of food and metabolism. By measuring the organic acids in the urine, a “snapshot” of the metabolism is captured, based on the products that are excreted from the body through the urine. Organic acids are mainly measured in a urine sample as they are not extensively reabsorbed in the kidney tubules. The majority of the Organic Acids are measured by a combination of procedures (gas or liquid chromatography linked with mass spectrometry).
The importance of assessing Metabolic Pathways
Thanks to the control of organic acids in the urine, the patient has the opportunity to obtain a comprehensive overview of the function of his body. Also, the analysis of organic acids is a diagnostic method that is performed, with the aim of early detection and monitoring of metabolic disorders.
Determining the levels of organic acids in the urine helps to assess the major functions of our body. These include the following:
- The hormone production axis
- The function of the Nervous system – through the metabolism of Neurotransmitters
- The toxic load of the organism is determined
- Cellular energy and mitochondrial metabolism
- Metabolism of amino acids, carbohydrates, nucleic acids and fatty acids
- The adequacy and functionality of various factors, such as vitamins, minerals and trace elements
- The state of function of the gastrointestinal tract and intestinal microbiome
Who should do an Organic Acids test?
Organic acids testing in the urine can detect the root causes of many chronic diseases and is recommended for patients who may be suffering from the following conditions:
- Autoimmune Diseases
- Depression, Mood Disorders, Stress
- Menstrual disorders
Gastrointestinal disorders, Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- Weight Disorders / Obesity
- Memory disorders
- Sleep disorders
- Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
- Nutritional Deficiencies
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