ODX Functional Testing

ODX Functional Testing brings together a systems-based view of your health using functional blood chemistry. These panels look beyond single numbers to evaluate patterns across energy production, metabolic health, inflammation, digestion/liver, thyroid and hormones, and micronutrient status. The goal is proactive insight—spotting early imbalances so you and your clinician can prioritize next steps before problems escalate.

Most people start with an ODX foundation panel (core chemistries, blood counts, lipids, glucose/A1c, iron, vitamin D, thyroid) and layer goal-based markers (e.g., insulin, hs-CRP, homocysteine, B12/folate, omega-3 index, selected hormones). ODX “optimal ranges” are typically narrower than standard reference intervals and are meant for wellness guidance, not diagnosis. Always interpret results with a qualified healthcare professional.

Signs, Situations & Related Needs

  • Energy & cognition: fatigue, brain fog, slower recovery, low stamina

  • Metabolic cues: central weight gain, sugar cravings, elevated blood pressure, family history of diabetes

  • Inflammation & stress: frequent aches, poor sleep, training intolerance, high-stress job

  • Digestion & liver: bloating, irregular bowel habits, alcohol or medication use that affects the liver

  • Thyroid & hormones: cold sensitivity, hair/skin changes, cycle changes or perimenopause/menopause, libido shifts

  • Prevention mindset: annual baseline, lifestyle reset, mid-training check-in, or post-illness recovery

Why These Tests Matter

What ODX testing can do

  • Map patterns across systems (glucose/insulin with lipids, iron with thyroid, inflammation with liver enzymes)

  • Prioritize actions—nutrition, sleep, stress, training load, and medical follow-up—based on objective data

  • Track trends to confirm improvement after changes in lifestyle or care

What ODX testing cannot do

  • Diagnose disease or replace guideline-directed imaging/procedures

  • Predict specific outcomes from a single value

  • Substitute for a clinician’s evaluation or urgent care when needed

What These Tests Measure (at a glance)

  • Energy & Oxygen Delivery: CBC, ferritin/iron/TIBC, vitamin B12, folate

  • Metabolic Health: fasting glucose, A1c, insulin, lipid panel (LDL/HDL/triglycerides), optional ApoB and Lp(a)

  • Inflammation & Oxidative Stress: hs-CRP, uric acid, GGT, LDH (contextual)

  • Electrolytes & Kidney/Liver: sodium, potassium, chloride, CO2, BUN/creatinine/eGFR, AST/ALT/ALP, bilirubin, albumin/total protein

  • Thyroid Function: TSH with optional Free T4, Free T3; consider reverse T3 only when clinically directed

  • Micronutrients: vitamin D (25-OH), B12, folate, magnesium (± RBC magnesium)

  • Optional Hormones (goal-based): total/free testosterone and SHBG (men, selective women), estradiol/progesterone with cycle timing, DHEA-S (clinician-directed)

  • Cardiovascular Context (optional): homocysteine, omega-3 index (if offered), urine albumin-to-creatinine for kidney risk

Systems Map (example)

System Typical biomarkers What patterns can suggest*
Energy/Oxygen CBC, ferritin, B12/folate Low stores affecting stamina, recovery
Glycemic Glucose, A1c, insulin Early insulin resistance or suboptimal fueling
Lipids LDL/HDL/TG (± ApoB, Lp[a]) Atherogenic profile needing lifestyle focus
Inflammation hs-CRP (± GGT, uric acid) Recovery load, metabolic strain, or infection
Thyroid TSH (± FT4/FT3) Thyroid imbalance affecting energy/temperature
Liver/Kidney AST/ALT/ALP, bilirubin, eGFR Medication/alcohol, training strain, hydration
Micronutrients Vitamin D, B12, folate, magnesium Gaps impacting muscle, nerve, and bone health

*Patterns guide wellness planning and monitoring; clinical diagnosis requires a clinician.

How the Testing Process Works

  1. Select your starting panel: choose an ODX foundation panel; add goal-based markers (e.g., insulin, hs-CRP, homocysteine, hormones) to match your questions.

  2. Prep for accuracy: follow fasting instructions (often 8–12 hours for lipids/glucose/insulin), avoid hard training and heavy alcohol the day before, and review any supplement holds (e.g., biotin for thyroid tests).

  3. Get your draw: visit a nearby patient service center; results post securely in your account.

  4. Review patterns: discuss results with your clinician; align findings with symptoms, diet, training, sleep, and stress.

  5. Retest for trends: many users repeat key ODX panels every 8–12 weeks after changes to confirm progress.

Interpreting Results (General Guidance)

  • Optimal vs. reference ranges: ODX “optimal” targets are wellness-oriented and narrower than diagnostic reference intervals. Being outside an optimal range does not equal disease.

  • Context first: timing (fasting, recovery day), hydration, recent illness, medications, and supplements can shift results.

  • Trends matter: look for movement toward optimal over time rather than fixating on a single value.

  • Escalation paths: unexpected or markedly abnormal results should be rechecked and evaluated by your clinician.

Choosing Panels vs. Individual Tests

  • ODX Foundation (most people): CBC • CMP/Electrolytes • Lipid Panel • A1c/Glucose • Ferritin/Iron/TIBC • Vitamin D • TSH • B12/Folate

  • Metabolic Focus: add insulin, hs-CRP, homocysteine; consider ApoB and Lp(a)

  • Thyroid/Energy Focus: TSH with Free T4/Free T3, ferritin/iron, B12/folate; consider reverse T3 only if clinician-directed

  • Men’s Optimization: foundation + total/free testosterone with SHBG (AM draw), hs-CRP, vitamin D

  • Women’s Optimization: foundation + estradiol and progesterone (cycle-timed when applicable), FSH/LH per clinician, vitamin D

  • Athlete/Recovery: foundation + CK (rest day), hs-CRP, magnesium (± RBC), omega-3 index if offered

FAQs

What is “functional blood chemistry”?
It uses narrower, wellness-focused ranges and pattern analysis to highlight potential imbalances before disease thresholds are crossed.

Do ODX panels diagnose conditions?
No. They guide prevention and performance decisions and should be interpreted with a clinician.

Do I need to fast?
Often yes—especially for lipids, glucose, and insulin. Follow the instructions on your order.

Should I stop supplements before testing?
Sometimes. Biotin can interfere with thyroid assays; high-dose vitamins and iron can skew levels. Follow any hold instructions on your order.

How often should I retest?
For lifestyle changes, many retest every 8–12 weeks to confirm trends; your clinician may adjust the cadence.

Can I add hormones to an ODX panel?
Yes—goal-based hormone testing can be added. Some tests require morning or cycle-timed draws.

Related Categories & Key Tests

  • General Health Panels Hub

  • General Health Tests • Baseline Biomarkers • Blood Chemistry Tests • Cardiometabolic Health • Thyroid Testing • Vitamin & Nutrition • Men’s Health • Women’s Health • Fitness & Performance

  • Key Tests : CBC • CMP/Electrolytes • Lipid Panel (± ApoB, Lp[a]) • A1c/Fasting Glucose (± Insulin) • TSH (± Free T4/T3) • Ferritin/Iron/TIBC/Transferrin • Vitamin D (25-OH) • Vitamin B12 • Folate • hs-CRP • Homocysteine • Magnesium (± RBC) • Omega-3 Index • Total/Free Testosterone & SHBG • Estradiol • Progesterone • FSH/LH

  • ODX Panels

References

Functional blood chemistry texts and consensus resources on optimal ranges and trend analysis; major society guidance for lipid, glycemic, thyroid, and micronutrient testing; pre-analytical best practices for accurate lab results.

Available Tests & Panels

Your ODX Functional Testing menu is pre-populated in the Ulta Lab Tests system. Select an ODX foundation panel, add goal-based modules (metabolic, thyroid, micronutrients, inflammation, and—when appropriate—hormones), follow fasting/supplement guidance, and review results with your clinician to build a personalized plan.

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Most Popular

The Amylase Test measures amylase enzyme levels in blood to evaluate pancreatic and digestive health. Elevated amylase may indicate pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, intestinal blockage, or salivary gland disorders, while low levels may suggest chronic pancreatitis or liver damage. Doctors order this test to investigate abdominal pain, nausea, or fever. Results provide vital insight into pancreatic function, digestive disorders, and overall metabolic health.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Amy Test

The Apolipoprotein B (ApoB) Test measures ApoB, the main protein in LDL and VLDL cholesterol, to assess cardiovascular risk. Elevated ApoB is linked to atherosclerosis, coronary artery disease, heart attack, and stroke. Low levels may reflect liver disease or malnutrition. Doctors often order this test with lipid panels or Apo A1 to calculate the ApoB/A1 ratio, providing a more accurate picture of cholesterol balance, cardiovascular health, and risk for heart disease.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Apo B Test, Apolipoprotein B-100 Test

The Bilirubin Direct Test measures conjugated bilirubin in the blood to assess liver function and bile duct health. Elevated levels may indicate hepatitis, cirrhosis, gallstones, or bile duct obstruction, while low levels are generally normal. Doctors order this test for patients with jaundice, fatigue, or suspected liver disease. Results help diagnose and monitor liver disorders, guide treatment decisions, and evaluate overall hepatic and biliary health.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Direct Bilirubin Test

The Fractionated Bilirubin Test separates total bilirubin into direct and indirect forms to assess liver and blood health. Elevated direct bilirubin may point to hepatitis, cirrhosis, or bile duct obstruction, while elevated indirect levels can signal hemolytic anemia or inherited disorders. Doctors order this test for jaundice, anemia, or suspected liver conditions. Results help guide diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of liver and blood disorders.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Fractionated Bilirubin Test

Most Popular

The C-Peptide Test measures C-peptide levels in blood to assess insulin production and pancreatic function. Low levels may indicate type 1 diabetes or reduced insulin production, while high levels may suggest type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance, or insulinoma. Doctors use this test to differentiate diabetes types, monitor treatment, and evaluate unexplained hypoglycemia. It provides key insight into endocrine, pancreatic, and metabolic health.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Connecting Peptide Insulin Test, Proinsulin C-Peptide Test

The C-Reactive Protein (CRP) Test measures CRP levels in blood to detect inflammation in the body. Elevated CRP may indicate infections, autoimmune disorders, or chronic diseases such as arthritis, cardiovascular disease, or inflammatory bowel disease. Doctors use this test to assess acute illness, monitor treatment response, and evaluate risk for heart disease. The CRP test provides key insight into inflammation, immune health, and overall wellness.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: CRP Test, Inflammation Test

Most Popular

The High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) Test measures very low levels of CRP in blood to evaluate inflammation and cardiovascular risk. Elevated hs-CRP may indicate increased risk for heart disease, heart attack, or stroke even before symptoms appear. Doctors use this test along with cholesterol and other markers to assess overall heart health, guide prevention strategies, and monitor treatment. It also helps evaluate chronic inflammation and metabolic conditions.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Cardiac CRP Test, High Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein Test

The Cardio IQ™ Apolipoprotein A1 Test measures ApoA1, the main protein in HDL cholesterol. Higher ApoA1 levels are generally linked to lower cardiovascular risk. This test helps evaluate heart health, lipid metabolism, and supports assessment of cardiovascular disease risk.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Apo A1 Test, Apolipoprotein A-1 Test

The Cardio IQ™ Apolipoprotein B Test measures ApoB, the main protein in LDL and other atherogenic lipoproteins. Elevated ApoB levels are linked to higher cardiovascular risk. This test provides a more precise assessment of heart disease risk than standard cholesterol tests and helps guide treatment decisions.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Apo B Test, Apolipoprotein B-100 Test

The Complete Blood Count with Differential and Platelets Test is a comprehensive blood test that checks red blood cells, white blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and platelets. The differential analyzes types of white blood cells to detect infections, anemia, clotting abnormalities, immune conditions, and certain cancers. This essential test is often ordered for routine health exams, diagnosis, and monitoring treatment progress.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: CBC Test, CBC with Differential and Platelets Test, CBC w/Diff and Platelets Test, Full Blood Count Test, Complete Blood Count Test

The Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) Test measures 21 markers to assess metabolic health, liver and kidney function, and electrolyte balance. It includes glucose, calcium, sodium, potassium, chloride, CO2, albumin, globulin, A/G ratio, total protein, bilirubin, ALP, AST, ALT, BUN, creatinine, BUN/creatinine ratio, and eGFR. The CMP helps detect diabetes, liver or kidney disease, and supports routine screening and chronic condition monitoring.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: CMP Test, Chemistry Panel Test, Chem Test, Chem 21 Test, Chem 14 Test 

Did your physician or healthcare provider recommend an ODX functional blood chemistry analysis test to you, but you're unsure what it is?

Do you have a family history of an inheritable condition that has you concerned about your health status?

Or, are you feeling healthy but interested in monitoring your general wellbeing?

If any of these questions apply to you, we can help you better understand ODX functional blood chemistry analysis testing. You will be much more prepared and relaxed as you prepare for your test. 

What Is ODX Functional Blood Chemistry Analysis Testing?

ODX functional blood chemistry analysis testing is one of the most critical entry-level assessments that your doctor can order for you. Dr. Weatherby from Optimal DX first developed it to standardize the functional interpretation of blood chemistry tests. 

As a preventive diagnosis tool, ODX functional blood chemistry analysis testing allows your doctor to reduce the time spent analyzing multiple blood tests. The tests can be used as a prognostic marker for dysfunction if the test identifies abnormal blood chemistry.

Through ODX functional blood chemistry analysis testing, your blood biomarkers can be monitored over time to detect changes in your health before they develop into a condition that can negatively impact your health. Your results can be monitored over time to detect if there are any concerning changes. 

ODX functional blood chemistry analysis testing goes beyond routine testing. It is more comprehensive, and it includes a cross-section of tests to evaluates your body systems and the state of your health to help identify conditions you may not yet be experience symptoms. It looks at underlying health issues and evaluates the state of your health and any conditions you may have. Results from this test can help you catch critical changes in your body before they manifest into a more serious condition.

What are the Benefits of General Wellness Lab Testing?

General wellness lab testing is performed to evaluate your overall health and screen for health conditions. Like an annual physical or a biennial dental cleaning, general wellness lab testing is a great tool to check up on your body and make sure there are no underlying issues. 

Through these tests, a variety of biomarkers are reviewed and analyzed for any concerning trends. By conducting these tests, you can receive an early warning of any potential issues with your health. 

General wellness lab testing helps you react to any risk factors and proactively target lifestyle changes. Some diseases or conditions develop over time without any symptoms, so lab testing enables you to identify these conditions earlier. 

These tests can also help confirm or rule out inherited conditions. Knowing that tested levels are "normal" might help relieve stress about your general wellbeing. 

ODX Functional Blood Chemistry Analysis Testing Lab Panels

There are five blood chemistry panel options typically available for ODX functional blood chemistry analysis testing:

The ODX Vital panel is the smallest option. It contains 19 tests with 80 biomarkers. This panel includes a CBC (complete blood count) and CMP (comprehensive metabolic panel), as well as a number of screening tests to evaluate your liver and kidney functions. This panel also includes some hormonal tests to monitor your thyroid and pituitary glands. This panel serves as a great starting point to determine if all of your vital biomarkers are within normal ranges.

ODX Max contains slightly more tests, with 33 tests in total and analyzing 100 biomarkers. Some of these additional tests help to evaluate your cardiovascular, skeletal, and muscular health. This panel also tests sex hormones and biomarkers, such as DHEA sulfate, estradiol, testosterone, and SHBG (sex hormone-binding globulin). Last but not least, this panel adds a test for insulin, which is vital for regulating blood glucose levels. Abnormalities in any of these tests can provide an early warning sign for a serious condition. 

The ODX Ultimate has two versions - male and female. These two versions contain 41 and 42 tests and evaluate 110 and 111 biomarkers, respectively. Additional tests for sex hormones are included in this panel. The Ultimate panel takes a more granular look at VLDL cholesterol and apolipoprotein A (which is carried in HDL cholesterol). Monitoring these levels early on can help you to make lifestyle changes to prevent and/or manage medical conditions.

Last but not least, the ODX Comprehensive panel contains the most tests of any of the options. This panel has 52 tests with 123 biomarkers. It contains all the tests mentioned in previous panels and tests for the prostate, parathyroid, and thyroid. This panel is the best option if you feel poorly and are unsure of the cause or if you have any concerning trends from your family health history.

Understanding which tests you want to review will help you narrow down your selection for which panel you should choose.

Frequently Asked Questions About ODX Functional Blood Chemistry Analysis Testing

You may still have some questions about this test and how it applies to you. Here are some frequently asked questions about ODX functional blood chemistry analysis testing:

  • Q: If I order multiple blood tests, will I need to have more than one needle stick?
    A: No; in fact, it's fairly common to order multiple lab tests off of a single blood draw where there is just one needle stick
  • Q: What do I need to do to prepare for my test?
    A: Each test has different requirements for preparation, but typically overnight fasting (or fasting up to 12 hours) is preferred
  • Q: Should I continue to take medication before getting my test?
    A: Yes; you should always take any medication that has been prescribed to you by a physician 
  • Q: What should I do if I receive an abnormal result?
    A: Abnormalities should be considered early warnings; they don't necessarily mean that you have an illness or disease. If you receive an abnormal result, reach out to your physician or healthcare provider for evaluation, further testing, and diagnosis

Benefits of General Wellness Lab Testing With Ulta Lab Tests

Ulta Lab Tests offers highly accurate and reliable tests so that you can make informed decisions about your health. Here are a few great things to love about Ulta Lab Tests:

  • You'll get secure and confidential results
  • You don't need health insurance
  • You don't need a physician's referral
  • You'll get affordable pricing
  • We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee

Order your ODX functional blood chemistry analysis lab tests today, and your results will be provided to you online in 24 to 48 hours for most tests.

Take control of your health with Ulta Lab Tests today!