The Dutch Test or "Dried Urine Test for Comprehensive Hormones"
The Dutch Test or “Dried Urine Test for Comprehensive Hormones” is a type of test that can assess and analyze a variety of hormone levels and compounds in your body that affect your hormonal health which can leave you feeling a variety of symptoms from fatigue, to mood swings, to weight gain. Understanding your hormone levels and how they affect your health can be an extremely useful tool to help gain control of your health and create actionable, focused steps.
The Dutch test measures hormones and their metabolites through a urine test. 4-5 urine samples are collected in a 24-hour period through a filter-paper/drying method that is time stable. These samples are then taken to a lab for analysis based on where you received your Dutch test. While the testing requires a strict methodology for collection which may be difficult to navigate with work, life, and obligations - it is still a relatively quick and simple method that is not invasive and can be done in the comfort of your environment.
One note about this collection method is that it should ideally be during the luteal phase of your cycle - the phase between ovulation and menstruation. Progesterone and estrogen levels are higher at this point, and their ratios and levels can give insight into your body’s hormonal response.
In addition to progesterone and estrogen, the Dutch test also measures
Testosterone (another sex hormone which can influence fertility, mood, energy, etc.)
Adrenal hormones such as cortisol (that stress hormone we always hear about!) and DHEA (a hormone that influences the levels of other hormones like testosterone and estrogen)
Adrenal hormones have a substantial impact on metabolism, immunity, stress, etc.
Melatonin (i.e. sleep, sleep, sleep!)
Neurotransmitter metabolites (a powerful insight into your mood and internal stress)
Hormone metabolites to look at overall function beyond just production.
The Dutch test can also give insight into your circadian rhythm and sleeping patterns that are influenced by cortisol. If you find yourself waking up in the middle of the night frequently, this can be a result of an imbalance in your hormonal system.
The Dutch test is a powerful diagnostic tool that can help you uncover some pieces to the puzzle and help you get specific with your health actions and intentions. While it may be more representative than a blood test, the test can still be limited from the daily and monthly hormonal fluctuations we experience as humans. That is why it is so important to work with a professional to understand your levels that are unique to YOU! Looking at the results from both a specific and big picture perspective can help you create a health plan that is effective and sustainable. Dietitians have the knowledge, background, and education to look at all aspects and give you the digestible information to make changes that you can see and feel in your life.
To learn more about Dutch tests and how to do one, schedule a discovery call with us: https://www.incnutritionllc.com/booking-calendar
References:
https://dutchtest.com/blog/why-we-test-during-days-19-22-of-a-28-day-cycle/
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24897-low-testosterone-in-women
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4688585/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6661742/