The Foundation of Your Protocol
Functional Medicine Genetic Testing: Understanding How Your Body Actually Works
Two people can have identical lab results and need completely different protocols because of how their bodies process hormones, nutrients, and inflammation at the genetic level. Genetic testing is woven into nearly every protocol at Monarch Functional Medicine, from hormone and thyroid care to gut health and metabolic support. Julie McDonald, MMS, PA-C, FMACP, sees patients in-person in Marquette, MI and virtually in Michigan through the 12-Week Reset. The 12 Week Reset is our foundational program, and where every patient begins. Comprehensive bloodwork (including hormones) and genetic testing give us a clear picture of what’s driving how you feel — so we can build your specific plan across Nutrition, Sleep, Stress, Supplements, and Mindfulness, the foundation functional medicine builds on.
Trusted & loved by our patients.
Years of clinical experience
One Input, Not the Whole Story
Nutrigenomic Testing That Informs, Not Replaces, Clinical Judgment
Genetic testing highlights predispositions and tendencies, such as MTHFR variants affecting methylation and folate metabolism, a well-researched and clinically meaningful example. Functional medicine genetic testing uses these results alongside your comprehensive labs, not as a standalone diagnosis. Available in Marquette, Michigan and through fully virtual consultations in Michigan, with an at-home collection kit.
- Nutrigenomic panel evaluating methylation, including MTHFR, hormone metabolism, and detoxification pathways
- Genetic markers related to inflammation and autoimmune susceptibility
- Metabolic and nutrient-processing gene variants tied to weight and energy
- Results integrated directly into your personalized nutrition and supplement protocol
Is This Right for You
Functional Medicine Genetic Testing Is for Anyone Starting a Personalized Protocol
Starting the 12-Week Reset
Genetic testing is a foundational part of the 12-Week Reset for nearly every patient.
Family History of Chronic Disease
Understanding your genetic tendencies allows for a more proactive, targeted approach to prevention.
Supplements and Diets That Haven't Worked as Expected
A mismatch between a generic protocol and your genetics may explain why past efforts fell short.
Want to Understand Your Own Biology, Not a Population Average
Your genetics are a piece of what makes your protocol specific to you rather than generic.
Managing a Hormone, Thyroid, or Autoimmune Condition
Genetic testing informs care across hormone, thyroid, and autoimmune protocols alike.
Remote Patients Seeking Expert Care
Genetic testing kits are mailed directly to you anywhere in Michigan, with results reviewed via telehealth.
Over 22 years of medical experience ★★★★★
The Monarch FM Process
How Genetic Testing Works at Monarch FM
Genetic testing is simple to complete and becomes a lasting reference point for your care, since your genetic results don’t change over time the way labs do.
- 22 Years of Clinical Experience
- MMS | PA-C | FMACP Certified Provider
- In-Person in Marquette, MI | Virtual in Michigan
Simple At-Home Collection
Testing typically uses a cheek swab or saliva kit that can be completed at home and mailed back, no blood draw required.
Comprehensive Nutrigenomic Analysis
Your sample is analyzed for variants related to methylation, hormone metabolism, detoxification, and inflammation.
Clinical Interpretation With Your Other Labs
Julie McDonald reviews your genetic results alongside your hormone, thyroid, and metabolic labs, since genetics is one input among several.
Protocol Built Around Your Results
Your nutrition and supplement protocol reflect what your genetics and labs show together.
Why Monarch Functional Medicine
Your Genes Are Part of the Picture. Not the Whole Story.
Genetic testing highlights predispositions and tendencies, not certainties, and we treat it that way. It is used alongside comprehensive lab testing to inform your supplement protocol, nutrition plan, and the broader 12-Week Reset.
Questions & Answers
Frequently Asked Questions
What is genetic testing in functional medicine?
Functional medicine genetic testing, sometimes called nutrigenomic testing, evaluates variants in genes related to methylation, hormone metabolism, detoxification, inflammation, and nutrient processing. This information helps inform your personalized nutrition and supplement protocol at Monarch Functional Medicine, available in Marquette, Michigan and virtually in Michigan.
How reliable is genetic testing for making health decisions?
Genetic testing highlights predispositions rather than certainties. Some markers, such as MTHFR and its effect on methylation and folate metabolism, are well-researched and clinically meaningful. The science connecting other individual markers to specific supplement recommendations is still evolving. We use genetic results as one input alongside your labs and symptoms, not as a standalone diagnosis or a definitive prescription.
What is MTHFR and why does it matter?
MTHFR is a gene involved in methylation, a process central to folate metabolism, detoxification, and neurotransmitter production. Variants in this gene are common and well-studied, and knowing your status can help inform decisions about specific forms of B vitamins and broader methylation support within your protocol.
Can genetic testing be done virtually?
Yes. Genetic testing kits are mailed directly to you anywhere in Michigan. The collection process is simple and completed at home, with results reviewed together via telehealth.
How long does it take to get genetic testing results?
Turnaround time typically runs a few weeks depending on the lab, though this can vary. Because your genetics do not change over time, this is typically a one-time test used as an ongoing reference throughout your care.
Do I need a referral for genetic testing?
No referral is required. You can book a free 15-minute strategy call to discuss whether genetic testing fits your protocol.
Is genetic testing included in the program cost?
Genetic testing is included as part of the 12-Week Energy, Hormone and Metabolism Reset, priced at $849 paid in full or three payments of $297. The 12 Week Reset is our foundational program, and where every patient begins. Comprehensive bloodwork (including hormones) and genetic testing give us a clear picture of what’s driving how you feel — so we can build your specific plan across Nutrition, Sleep, Stress, Supplements, and Mindfulness, the foundation functional medicine builds on.
Who interprets my genetic testing results?
Julie McDonald, a board-certified PA-C with the FMACP designation, MMS, and 22 years of clinical experience, interprets your genetic results alongside your full clinical picture. Learn more on the About Us page.
Patient Results
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The Monarch FM Standard
Clinical Expertise. Advanced Testing. A Protocol Built for You.
Julie McDonald is a MMS, PA-C, and FMACP with 22 years across Emergency, Family, and Internal Medicine. Monarch Functional Medicine runs the labs most providers never order, interprets them through a functional medicine lens, and builds a protocol specific to your biology. Learn more about Julie or book a free strategy call today.
Ready to Start
Your Biology Is Unique. Your Protocol Should Be Too.
Functional medicine genetic testing at Monarch FM adds a foundational layer to your personalized protocol. See us in person in Marquette, MI or work with us virtually from anywhere in Michigan.
Join hundreds of patients who have reclaimed their energy, hormones, and health.
