LC/MS/MS (liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry) is considered the gold standard for hormone testing because it offers much higher sensitivity and specificity than traditional methods. It can measure hormones at very low levels and, unlike ELISA, it can clearly distinguish between molecules that look similar—such as the different forms of estrogen or cortisol vs cortisone. LC/MS/MS also allows for testing multiple hormones and their metabolites in a single run, providing a much more complete picture of endocrine balance. ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay), while widely used and cost-effective, has more limitations. Because it relies on antibodies, it is more prone to cross-reactivity, meaning it can give less accurate results if molecules share similar structures. ELISA is useful for routine screening, but for functional endocrinology where precision and a deeper look at hormone pathways matter, LC/MS/MS delivers superior accuracy and insight.

ELISA = fast, affordable, but limited.

LC/MS/MS = gold-standard precision, especially valuable in functional endocrinology where metabolites and subtle imbalances matter.

Salivary hormone testing (adrenal cortex) looks at the cumulative effects of stress that cause disruption of the natural rhythms and balancing mechanisms of steroid hormones thereby compromising sex hormones, neurotransmitter production and overall health. Closely evaluating the function of the adrenal glands is imperative in understanding the effects of stress. Salivary testing gives insight into the bioavailability of the unbound (free) hormones that are analyzed to capture circadian/luteal fluctuations.

Urine metabolic pathways and amino acid precursor testing evaluates (adrenal medulla) allowing for customized supplementation. Understanding brain chemistry plays in integral role in developing a full spectrum protocol. Energy, mood, sleep, and hormonal imbalances are direct results of stress. Whether physical or emotional, STRESS is the #1 issue effecting your body. Together they offer a dynamic and precise profile that serum testing alone cannot provide.

Functional endocrinology is the practice of looking at the body’s neuroendocrine hormonal systems through a root-cause, systems-based lens rather than just focusing on single hormone levels in isolation. Instead of only correcting numbers on a lab test, it explores why the endocrine system is imbalanced—considering stress, gut health, nutrient status, detox pathways, circadian rhythm, and lifestyle patterns.

It views hormones as part of a dynamic network, influenced by communication between the brain, adrenals, thyroid, ovaries/testes, pancreas, and even the gut microbiome. The goal isn’t simply replacement or suppression—it’s restoring balance and resiliency by optimizing how the body regulates and produces its own hormones.

In short:

Conventional endocrinology = “what are the numbers, how do we normalize them?”

Functional endocrinology = “why are these numbers out of balance, and how can we restore the body’s natural ability to self-regulate?”

Metabonomics is the science of studying how your body’s metabolism is working in real time—essentially, it looks at the unique chemical fingerprints your body produces as it processes nutrients, hormones, and toxins. By analyzing these patterns, we can see where your system may be under stress, out of balance, or in need of extra support.

When we use metabonomics to guide formulation, it means your cream isn’t made with a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, it’s tailored to match your body’s specific needs and how your metabolism is actually functioning. This allows for a more precise, effective, and personalized therapy—helping restore balance and support your body’s natural ability to regulate hormones and heal.

The DUTCH test (Dried Urine Test for Comprehensive Hormones) is a widely used tool for assessing hormone health. It measures sex hormones (like estrogen, progesterone, testosterone), adrenal hormones (like cortisol and DHEA), and their metabolites through dried urine samples collected at specific times of the day. This helps map out hormone levels and patterns, especially adrenal rhythm and how your body processes estrogens. It’s a valuable test for spotting imbalances and giving a snapshot of hormone activity.

What makes our approach different is that we go beyond just measuring hormone levels. We use metabonomics, which looks at your body’s real-time metabolic activity—the unique chemical “fingerprints” your body produces as it processes hormones, nutrients, and toxins. Instead of simply seeing what hormone levels are present, metabonomics shows us why your hormones may be out of balance and how your metabolism is functioning as a whole.

From there, we formulate personalized liposomal transdermal creams, designed to support your body with exactly what it needs, in a form it can easily absorb and use. In short: DUTCH gives valuable hormone data, but our approach combines deeper metabolic insight with targeted therapy—offering both the information and the customized solution in one.

Regenerations is about Restoral! Our formulations include both precursors — plant-based compounds that “teach” your body to regenerate its own hormones naturally -- as well as microgram precise and bio-individualized compounds to provide immediate relief.

Why should one be concerned with hormone levels?

Hormones are your body’s chemical messengers—they control energy, mood, sleep, weight, focus, and even how well you handle stress. When hormones fall out of balance, it can show up as fatigue, brain fog, irritability, anxiety, sleep issues, weight gain, or low libido.

Left unaddressed, hormone imbalances can also contribute to long-term health concerns like thyroid issues, cardiovascular problems, insulin resistance, or bone loss. The good news is, when your hormones are supported properly, your body has the ability to restore balance and vitality—naturally.