Nutritionist shares lab tests to identify the root cause of everyday health issues

Modern lifestyle problems such as hair loss, fatigue, poor sleep, digestive discomfort, and irregular periods are becoming increasingly common, yet most people try to fix them with quick dietary changes or supplements without ever understanding what their body is truly lacking. In a recent video, top nutritionist Dr. Ryan Fernando hinted that the real solution begins with identifying the root cause. Dr. Fernando emphasizes that targeted testing allows you to understand what your body is missing, where systems are underperforming, and which deficiencies silently drive these everyday problems. Only then can diet, lifestyle changes, or supplementation become truly effective. To make this process easier, Dr. Fernando breaks down exactly which tests one should consider for each common lifestyle problem. Here are the specific tests he recommends for the symptoms most people struggle with today:Nutritionist’s take: check iron, vitamin D, and thyroid panel A 2020 case–control study found that people with diffuse hair loss had significantly lower serum ferritin and 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels compared with healthy controls. Another study comparing women with chronic hair shedding or female-pattern hair loss to controls found markedly lower ferritin and vitamin D levels in the hair-loss group; the severity of hair loss correlated with lower levels. Nutritionist’s take: Check complete blood count (CBC), vitamin B12, iron, fasting blood sugar and HBA1C. Multiple studies support that these factors can cause dizziness and tiredness in an individual. For example; Studies show that both high and low blood glucose levels may trigger fatigue, dizziness, and reduced cognitive energy because of fluctuations in brain glucose availability.Studies support Dr. Fernando’s claims. Multiple studies link low vitamin D with poorer sleep duration, lower sleep efficiency, and increased daytime sleepiness. A 2018 systematic review found that vitamin D deficiency was significantly associated with higher odds of sleep disorders, particularly insomnia and fragmented sleep.Nutritionist’s take: Check thyroid, vitamin D, magnesium, ferritin and iron levels, and if snoring is a problem, do sleep apnea screening. ​Studies support Dr. Fernando’s claims. Multiple studies link low vitamin D with poorer sleep duration, lower sleep efficiency, and increased daytime sleepiness. A 2018 systematic review found that vitamin D deficiency was significantly associated with higher odds of sleep disorders, particularly insomnia and fragmented sleep.Nutritionist’s take: Check electrolytes like sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, vitamin B12, and also vitamin D Electrolytes maintain proper muscle contraction and nerve signaling, while B12 and vitamin D support nerve health and neuromuscular coordination. Testing helps identify whether cramps are due to dehydration, deficiencies, or nerve-related causes. Nutritionist’s take: Check vitamin D, calcium, uric acid, and inflammatory markers like ESR and CRP.A 2018 meta-analysis found that people with arthritis, chronic widespread pain or musculoskeletal pain had significantly lower serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D compared with controls, suggesting a link between low vitamin D and joint/muscle pain. Nutritionist’s take: Get your gut microbiome tested (not a blood test). Check celiac profile, lactose and a vitamin B12 blood testA 2020 review concluded that disruptions in gut microbial diversity and short-chain–fatty-acid–producing bacteria are associated with IBS symptoms, including gas, bloating, and altered bowel habits.Check thyroid profile, FSH and LH, prolactin, and even HBA1C. A study found that women with menstrual irregularities had significantly higher insulin resistance, and improved metabolic markers were associated with cycle normalization. Also, a clinical review showed that elevated prolactin suppresses the reproductive hormone axis, leading to reduced ovulation and cycle disturbance.