Detecting Cognitive Decline Before It Starts: The Power of Functional Testing

Discover how advanced functional lab tests can detect early warning signs of cognitive decline before memory loss begins—helping you protect your brain health proactively.

What if Cognitive Decline Isn’t Inevitable?

We often assume that memory loss, slower thinking, and “senior moments” are just part of getting older. But what if that isn’t true? What if we could identify the earliest signs of cognitive decline—years before a diagnosis—and intervene before symptoms become serious?

At Re:Health, we believe in taking a proactive, root-cause approach to brain health. Functional testing gives us the tools to do exactly that. Rather than waiting for memory issues to become disruptive, we use specialist lab tests to detect the underlying imbalances that may increase your risk—so we can address them early, naturally, and holistically.

Why Waiting for Symptoms May Be Too Late

By the time cognitive symptoms like forgetfulness or word-finding difficulties become obvious, the brain may already have undergone years of subtle changes. The conventional medical system often waits for a diagnosis—like Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) or Alzheimer’s—before action is taken.

But cognitive decline rarely happens overnight. It’s usually the result of years (or even decades) of physiological changes. These changes may be silent at first but measurable with the right tools.

Functional testing allows us to uncover:

• Nutrient deficiencies that impact neurotransmitter production

• Blood sugar instability, insulin resistance, or glycation

• Elevated homocysteine levels associated with brain atrophy

• Inflammation, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction

• Toxin exposures (mould, heavy metals, chemicals)

• Hormone imbalances affecting cognition (e.g. thyroid, oestrogen, cortisol)

• Early signs of poor detoxification and liver stress

• Gut dysfunction or dysbiosis contributing to neuroinflammation

• Genetic predispositions that increase brain vulnerability (e.g. ApoE4)

  
  

The Power of Testing: What We Can Discover

Here’s a closer look at the types of functional tests we use to screen for risk and build a personalised roadmap for brain protection:

1. Blood Chemistry Panel

A full blood screen provides insight into inflammatory markers, insulin resistance, thyroid function, B12/folate status, lipid profiles, and more—all of which can have a crucial impact on cognition.

2. BrainScan Biomarkers to detect Early Cognitive Changes

We are fortunate to now have access to a new generation of ultrasensitive blood-based biomarkers for early brain changes, including pTau-217, GFAP, and neurofilament light (NFL). These markers are part of the BrainScan™, a cutting-edge test that enables the detection of subtle neurodegeneration and Alzheimer’s-related pathology years before symptoms arise. pTau-217 reflects early tau accumulation in the brain, a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease; GFAP (glial fibrillary acidic protein) indicates astroglial activation and neuroinflammation; and NFL reflects neuronal damage and axonal loss. Research shows these markers can identify cognitive decline with remarkable accuracy, even before traditional imaging detects change. The ability to screen for these advanced markers allows us to take truly preventative action—giving clients the opportunity to safeguard cognitive function before damage occurs.

3. Nutrient and Organic Acids Testing (OAT)

This test looks at hundreds of metabolic markers—allowing us to assess mitochondrial health, neurotransmitter metabolism, oxidative stress, amino acid status, detoxification capacity, and yeast or bacterial overgrowth.

4. Homocysteine and Methylation Markers

Elevated homocysteine is a known risk factor for Alzheimer’s. We look at this along with B-vitamin status and methylation pathways that affect detoxification and brain chemistry.

5. Genetic Testing (e.g. ApoE, MTHFR, COMT)

Genetic SNPs don’t determine your fate—but they do reveal vulnerabilities. Knowing your genotype helps us tailor nutrition and lifestyle strategies to offset risk.

6. DUTCH Hormone Testing

Declining sex hormones (especially oestrogen and testosterone), adrenal stress, and disrupted cortisol rhythms all impact memory, focus, and mood—particularly in midlife.

7. Comprehensive Stool Analysis

The gut-brain axis is real. Gut dysbiosis, poor digestion, and intestinal inflammation can drive brain fog, low mood, and long-term neuroinflammation.

7. Environmental Toxins, Mould & CIRS

Cognitive decline can be fuelled by environmental exposures—especially if detoxification pathways are impaired. We investigate and support the body’s ability to clear these safely.

Prevention Is Possible—And Personalised

Rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, we create a personalised brain optimisation programme based on your unique biochemistry, genetics, and lifestyle. We combine test results with your symptoms, history, and goals to design a tailored plan that may include:

• Targeted nutritional therapy and supplementation

• Brain-boosting dietary strategies (e.g. ketogenic, anti-inflammatory)

• Detoxification support and mitochondrial repair

• Hormone balance and stress regulation

• Sleep and circadian rhythm optimisation

• Cognitive training, movement, and neuroplasticity tools

  
  

This is especially powerful for those with a family history of Alzheimer’s, a known ApoE4 status, or women entering perimenopause and menopause, when brain vulnerability increases.

Real Hope for Cognitive Health

Functional testing provides real answers—and real hope. It empowers you to make informed decisions about your brain health long before a diagnosis is on the table. It’s not about fear. It’s about clarity, action, and peace of mind.

If you’re noticing brain fog, struggling to focus, or want to be proactive about preserving your memory, we’re here to help. Whether you're in your 40s, 50s, 60s or beyond, it’s never too early—or too late—to support your brain.

Next Steps

📞 Book a Discovery Call: Let’s talk about your brain health goals and whether testing or one of our programmes below is the right next step.

Start with a personalised Brain Health MOT: Including a curated panel of key tests with expert interpretation and step-by-step support.

6 Month Brain Optimisation Programme: Designed for those looking to stay sharp, focused, and mentally resilient.

12 Month Bredesen Protocol: Designed for those with a diagnosis of MCI or Alzheimer's