How functional testing works
From choosing a test to understanding your results.
Functional testing can feel overwhelming at first. This page explains the process clearly, from choosing the right test and collecting your sample through to lab analysis, results and optional Clinical Nutritionist support.
The short version
A simple process, with support when you need it.
Most Wellbeing George tests follow the same broad pathway: choose your test, complete the required collection, send your sample to the lab, receive your results and decide whether you would like help interpreting them.
- Choose from genetics, methylation, gut health, hormones, food reactions, nutrition markers and longevity testing.
- Many tests use at-home sample collection, depending on the test type.
- Optional practitioner support is available if you want help turning results into practical next steps.
Step by step
What happens after you decide to order?
Exact instructions vary by test, but this is the general process for most Wellbeing George functional testing options.
Choose the right test
Start with your main health question. Are you trying to understand methylation, gut symptoms, hormones, food reactions, nutrient status, biological age or long-term health trends?
Each test page explains who the test may suit, what it looks at and the support options available. If you are unsure, you can book a free 15-minute chat before ordering.
Receive your kit and instructions
Your testing pathway will include instructions for collection, preparation and sample return. Depending on the test, you may receive a kit directly or follow specific collection requirements.
Read the instructions before collecting your sample. Some tests may have timing, food, supplement, medication or collection requirements that need to be followed carefully.
Collect your sample
Sample type depends on the test. This may involve saliva, stool, breath, blood spot, urine or blood collection requirements.
Your kit or instructions will explain what to collect, how to collect it and how to package it for return. The aim is to make the process as clear and manageable as possible.
Send your sample to the lab
Follow the return instructions provided with your kit. Lab processing times vary by test and can be affected by sample type, postage, laboratory workload and any public holiday periods.
If there are test-specific details you need to know, these will be explained on the relevant product page or in your test instructions.
Receive your report
Once the laboratory has completed analysis, your results are provided in a report. Some reports are straightforward, while others contain a lot of data that benefits from interpretation.
This is where it helps to understand the difference between raw results and practical next steps. A result is only useful if it can be interpreted in context.
Use your results to guide next steps
You can use the report on its own, choose a video review where available, or book a 1:1 consultation for deeper support.
During practitioner interpretation, results are considered alongside symptoms, health history, diet, lifestyle, medications, supplements, stress, sleep and goals.
Choosing your pathway
Report only, video review or consultation?
Some people are comfortable reading their own results, while others prefer guided interpretation. The right level of support depends on your goals and the complexity of your symptoms.
Report only
This may suit people who simply want access to their results, are confident reviewing health information themselves, or are taking the report to an existing practitioner.
Video review
A video review can be helpful when you want a clear summary of the key findings without booking a full consultation.
1:1 consultation
A consultation is often the best option if your symptoms are complex, you want a practical plan, or you need help connecting results with diet, lifestyle and supplement priorities.
Free 15-minute chat
If you have not ordered yet and are unsure which test to choose, a short chat can help you narrow down the most relevant starting point.
Practitioner interpretation
Why interpretation matters.
A lab report can provide useful data, but it does not know your full story. The value often comes from interpreting results in context and deciding what matters most.
Context
Results are considered alongside symptoms, history, diet, sleep, stress, medications, supplements and goals.
Prioritisation
Rather than trying to change everything at once, interpretation helps identify what is most relevant first.
Practicality
The aim is to turn testing into usable food, lifestyle and supplement priorities where appropriate.
FAQs
Common questions about the testing process.
Are Wellbeing George functional tests completed at home?
Many Wellbeing George functional tests can be completed at home, depending on the sample type. Some tests may involve saliva, stool, breath, blood spot, urine or blood collection requirements.
Can I complete functional testing if I live outside Melbourne?
Yes. Many Wellbeing George functional testing options are available Australia-wide. The exact process depends on the test type, sample requirements and laboratory instructions.
What types of samples do functional tests use?
Depending on the test, collection may involve saliva, stool, breath, blood spot, urine or blood collection requirements. Each product page explains the relevant sample type before you order.
How do I know which test to choose?
The best test depends on the main question you want to answer, such as methylation, gut health, hormones, food reactions, nutrition markers or longevity. You can compare the full range on the testing page or book a free 15-minute chat before ordering.
Is genetic testing different from blood, stool or hormone testing?
Yes. Genetic testing looks at inherited tendencies and does not usually change over time. Blood, stool, breath, urine and hormone testing look more at current patterns, which may change with diet, lifestyle, stress, health status or treatment.
Do I need a consultation after my results?
A consultation is optional, but it can be helpful if you want your results interpreted alongside your symptoms, health history, diet, lifestyle, medications, supplements and goals.
How long does functional testing take?
Timeframes vary depending on the test, shipping, sample return and lab processing. Each test page explains the relevant process and expected pathway where available.
What happens if I make a mistake collecting my sample?
Follow the instructions provided with your kit as carefully as possible. If you are unsure whether a sample has been collected correctly, contact Wellbeing George or the relevant test provider before sending it back.
Can I do functional testing while taking supplements or medication?
Some tests may have preparation instructions around supplements, medications, food, alcohol, caffeine or timing. Do not stop prescribed medication unless advised by your GP or healthcare provider. Always follow the instructions provided with your test.
Will my results tell me exactly what supplements to take?
Your results can help guide nutrition and supplement priorities, but they should be interpreted in context. A Clinical Nutritionist can help connect your report with your symptoms, diet, history and goals.
Can I share my results with my GP or another practitioner?
Yes. You can share your results with your GP, specialist or another practitioner. Functional testing does not replace medical care, but it can provide useful information to discuss with your healthcare team.
Is functional testing a replacement for medical care?
No. Functional testing is used to guide personalised nutrition and lifestyle support. It is not a substitute for medical care, diagnosis or treatment. Always speak with your GP or healthcare provider about medical symptoms, medications or health concerns.
Ready to compare options?
Start with the test that matches your main question.
Browse the full testing range, compare categories and choose the option that best fits what you want to understand.
Reviewed by Georgina Waugh
Clinical Nutritionist, BHSc Nutritional Medicine
Last updated: 25 April 2026
Sources reviewed: lab information, relevant test provider information and clinical nutrition interpretation.
Important: Functional testing is used to guide personalised nutrition and lifestyle support. It is not a substitute for medical care, diagnosis or treatment. Always speak with your GP or healthcare provider about medical symptoms, medications or health concerns.