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Environmental Toxin Testing at Five Journeys Clinic

Environmental Toxins Assessment
In today’s world, we’re surrounded by environmental toxins that can sneak into our lives and impact our health without us even realizing it. From the air we breathe to the food we eat and the products we use, examples of these toxins are all around us. They’re in the pollution outside, the pesticides on our fruits and veggies, and even the chemicals in our shampoos and cleaners at home. It’s almost impossible to avoid them entirely, which is why it’s so important to learn about their effects on our health. By understanding how these toxins can affect us, we can take steps to protect ourselves and recognize the importance of environmental toxin testing.

When Should You Do Environmental Toxin Testing?

Environmental toxin testing is essential for maintaining optimal health and preventing chronic diseases. By testing for environmental toxins, individuals can identify and measure harmful substances they have been exposed to, such as heavy metals, pesticides, and industrial chemicals. This process allows us to test for toxins in the body, providing crucial information that can guide detoxification strategies and lifestyle changes. Early detection of these toxins can help prevent serious health issues, improve overall well-being, and support long-term health.

How We Test for Toxins in the Body 

While various methods exist to test for toxins in the body, at Five Journeys, we prioritize a convenient and reliable approach: at-home urine tests. This non-invasive method offers valuable insights into your potential exposure to harmful substances.

Urine Testing

Urine testing is a reliable and non-invasive method for detecting a variety of toxins in the body. It’s particularly useful for identifying water-soluble toxins, such as certain heavy metals and chemical compounds. This test can reflect both recent and past exposure, making it a valuable tool in assessing environmental toxin presence.

Additional Testing Methods (for informational purposes only)

While Five Journeys currently utilizes urine testing as our primary method for environmental toxin detection, other methods exist for a more comprehensive assessment. Here’s a brief overview of some additional methods:

Blood Testing

Blood tests for environmental toxins can identify heavy metals, pesticides, and other toxic chemicals, providing a comprehensive overview of recent toxin exposure. This test allows for a detailed analysis of your blood, revealing potential environmental toxins that may be impacting your health.

Although blood test for environmental toxins is another valuable tool, our at-home urine test offers a comfortable and accessible way to assess toxin levels.

Breath Analysis

This emerging technique detects volatile organic compounds and other toxins through breath exhalation, offering real-time data on certain environmental toxins.

Interested in Environmental Toxin Testing? Ask your provider or book a call with us!

How to Prepare for Your At-Home Urine Test for Environmental Toxins

Here at Five Journeys, we utilize convenient at-home urine test kits for environmental toxin analysis. This non-invasive method allows you to test for toxins in your body in the privacy and comfort of your own home. Here’s how to prepare for your test:

  1. Collection Kit: We will provide you with a comprehensive at-home urine test kit containing everything you need for sample collection and secure mailing to our partnered laboratory.
  2. Hydration: Drink plenty of water in the hours leading up to your test. This ensures a sufficient sample volume and facilitates toxin elimination through urine.
  3. Fasting (Optional): While not mandatory, a short fast (2-4 hours) before the test can further concentrate your urine and potentially improve the accuracy of the results.
  4. Minimize Interfering Substances: For 24 hours before the test, avoid consuming alcohol, caffeine, or certain medications that could affect the results. Discuss any medications you’re currently taking with your healthcare provider at Five Journeys to determine if they need to be adjusted.

Next Steps:

Once you’ve received your at-home test kit, schedule a consultation with one of our healthcare professionals at Five Journeys. They can answer any questions you may have, review the testing process in detail, and discuss what to expect after you submit your sample.

Environmental Toxins Assessment

Environmental Toxin Testing Procedures at Five Journeys Lab

Below are the available options for testing for environmental toxins at Five Journeys.

  • Mosaic Diagnostics (Formerly Great Plains Laboratory) Glyphosate: Glyphosate (“Round Up”) is a pesticide that is widely used and this test indicates the body’s levels.
  • US Biotek Environmental Pollutants Panel (EPP): A comprehensive test designed to assess exposure to a wide range of environmental pollutants, aiding in understanding potential health risks and guiding personalized interventions.

Why Begin Improving Your Health with Five Journeys?

Beginning your journey to improved health with Five Journeys offers a comprehensive approach that encompasses various aspects of wellness. Our commitment to optimal health and well-being is evident in our personalized and holistic approach to care. Here are some reasons why you should choose Five Journeys to improve your health:

Holistic Approach

At Five Journeys, we recognize that true wellness encompasses more than just physical health. We take a holistic approach that considers all aspects of your well-being, including physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual health.

Personalized Care

We understand that each individual is unique, and their health needs are different. That's why we tailor our services to meet your specific needs and goals. Whether you're seeking preventive care, managing chronic conditions, or optimizing your overall health, we provide personalized solutions that prioritize your well-being.

By choosing Five Journeys for environmental toxin testing in Boston and Newton, MA, you’re not just accessing information; you’re making a proactive investment in a deeper understanding of your toxin exposure—a significant step toward a healthier and more resilient life!

*Massachusetts law does not allow us to accept MassHealth & Medicaid. Other exceptions may apply.

Why we do, What we do...

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test is comprehensive testing for Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses, helping clinicians accurately diagnose and treat these complex infections. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home.

SPECIMEN TYPE

Blood, Urine, or Ticks

COST

may have a $200 copay

INSURANCE

Covered by most insurance.

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

Galleri® is a multi-cancer early detection test, a blood test that screens for many of the deadliest cancers before they become symptomatic,1,2,3 including those with no recommended screening tests today. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home or in lab.

SPECIMEN TYPE

Blood

COST

$999

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage.

3 x 4 Genetics DNA Test

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This DNA test analyzes a person’s genetic markers to provide insights into their health and wellness price. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home.

SPECIMEN TYPE

Swab

COST

$299

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage.

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test is a key tool for assessing the impact of long-term exposure to environmental chemicals. By quantitatively measuring 14 select metabolites, this test helps determine an individual’s toxic burden, offering essential data to guide targeted nutritional and detoxification interventions for improved health outcomes. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home.

SPECIMEN TYPE

Urine

COST

$129

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage.

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

The Hormone and Urinary Metabolites Assessment Profile (HuMapTM) provides a comprehensive overview of steroid hormones, their metabolites, and the efficiency of the enzymes that metabolize these hormones. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home.

SPECIMEN TYPE

Urine

COST

$199

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage.

INSTRUCTIONS

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This is a dried urine test for comprehensive hormones to help providers solve complex patient cases. DUTCH is a group of validated tests that provide a complete evaluation of sex and adrenal hormones, including metabolites. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home.

SPECIMEN TYPE

Urine

COST

$300

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage.

INSTRUCTIONS

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This is a comprehensive stool test that relies on quantitative polymerase chain
reaction (qPCR) technology to detect parasites, bacteria, H. pylori, fungi, and more by targeting the specific DNA of the organisms tested. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home.

SPECIMEN TYPE

Stool

COST

$399

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage.

INSTRUCTIONS

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This is a comprehensive test that uses blood and urine to evaluate over 125 biomarkers. It provides recommendations for vitamins, minerals, amino acids, fatty acids, and digestive support. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home.

SPECIMEN TYPE

Blood and Urine

COST

$179 – $439

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage.

INSTRUCTIONS

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Genova logo

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

Genova’s SIBO Profiles are non-invasive breath tests which capture exhaled hydrogen (H2) and methane (CH4) gases following patient ingestion of a lactulose solution to evaluate bacterial overgrowth of the small intestine

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

SPECIMEN TYPE

Breath

COLLECTION INSTRUCTIONS

COST

$85-$225 depending on insurance coverage. 

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RealTime

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates the presence of harmful mycotoxins (toxins produced by molds).

LOCATION PERFORMED

At Home

SPECIMEN TYPE

Urine

COLLECTION INSTRUCTIONS

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS

Glutathione for 1 week, then bath or sauna.

COST

$699

INSURANCE

Fully covered by Medicare. Repeat test prices $249

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Nordic-Labratories

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates the genetic profile for multiple health indicators. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

SPECIMEN TYPE

Blood Spot

COST

$319

INSURANCE

No insurance accepted

COLLECTION INSTRUCTIONS

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IGX

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This company can test for lyme, babesia, bartonella and additional tick-borne illnesses. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

In office

SPECIMEN TYPE

Blood

COST

around $1600 (depends on panel selected)

INSURANCE

Fully covered by Medicare. May be reimbursed with PPO plans.
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Great-Plains

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates the presence of harmful mycotoxins (toxins produced by molds).

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

BLOOD FLUID

Urine

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS

Glutathione for 1 week, then bath or sauna.

COST

$310

INSURANCE

No insurance accepted
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Alletess

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates a wide range of environmental toxins that may be leading to harmful health effects.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

BLOOD FLUID

Urine

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS

Glutathione for 1 week, then bath or sauna.

COST

$199

INSURANCE

No insurance accepted $30 discount given if done with mycotoxins.
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Quest

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

Blood work for blood count, urinalysis and vitamin levels.

LOCATION PERFORMED

BLOOD FLUID

Blood

NOTES

You often have to fast for these tests-please check your providers notes.

COST

Depending on the test, deductible or copay may apply.

INSURANCE

Depends on insurance coverage, deductible or copay may apply.
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Great-Plains

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

Glyphosate (“Round Up”) is a pesticide that is widely used and this test indicates the body’s levels.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

BLOOD FLUID

Urine

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS

Glutathione for 1 week, then bath or sauna.

COST

$99 ($69 if performed with mycotoxins or environmental toxins).

INSURANCE

No insurance accepted $30 discount given if done with mycotoxins or GPL Tox.
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Genova logo

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates many measures including micronutrients, antioxidants, minerals, detox, overview of gut function, omegas and toxic exposure. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home.

SPECIMEN TYPE

Urine

COST

$150 – $329

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage. Fully covered by Medicare.

INSTRUCTIONS

fivejourneys logo
Genova logo

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates the gut function and indicates microbiome balance, overgrowth, infection, inflammation, parasites and digestive efficacy. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

SPECIMEN TYPE

Stool

COST

$179-$439 depending on insurance coverage.

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage. Fully covered by Medicare.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS

No probiotics for one week.

VIDEO INSTRUCTIONS

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Genova logo

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates the full menstrual cycle, female hormones, and adrenal profile.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

BLOOD FLUID

Urine

COST

$160-$329

INSURANCE

Depending on insurance coverage. Fully covered by Medicare.

NOTES

Must be off hormones in order to do the testing.
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Galaxy

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test is specifically for a tick-borne illness called “Bartonella”.

LOCATION PERFORMED

In office

BLOOD FLUID

Blood

COST

$260

INSURANCE

No insurance accepted
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Doctors-Data

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test evaluates the presence of potentially harmful heavy metals stored in the body.  Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

SPECIMEN TYPE

Urine

COST

Testing: $79 x2 paid to Doctor’s Data
DMSA: $38 paid to Johnson’s Compounding Pharmacy

INSURANCE

Not covered by Insurance
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DiagnosTechs

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test measures saliva cortisol testing throughout the course of one day and informs us where there might be an adrenal imbalance.

LOCATION PERFORMED

At home

BLOOD FLUID

Saliva

COST

$80

INSURANCE

No insurance coverage

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Alletess

WHY DO WE DO THIS TEST?

This test is designed to look at food sensitivities (IgG immune responses). It is available in both a 99 or 184 panel. Click here for more information.

LOCATION PERFORMED

In office

SPECIMEN TYPE

Blood

COST

$129-238

INSURANCE

No insurance accepted