Collection Method

CI05.29.01

Kit Requirements

6 x 5ml Saliva

Turn Around Time

3-5 Business Days Turnaround times are estimates

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Sample Report

Description

The Cortisol Awakening Response (CAR) test is a non-invasive saliva test that serves as a reliable marker of stress response and a critical tool for revealing adrenal imbalances. Lifestyle, physical and psychological stresses put constant demands on the adrenal glands. If they become depleted adrenal fatigue or insufficiency may be experienced.

The Cortisol Awakening Response (CAR) test is a unique assessment measuring the predictable rise and fall in cortisol within the first hour of awakening.  The test is essential in evaluating the overall function of the HPA axis. In this particular test we measure cortisol immediately on rising, 30 minutes post waking, 60 minutes post waking, 12:00 (noon), 4:00pm and 8:00pm.

The CAR test allows your physician to determine how healthy your HPA axis is which useful in assessing the HPA-axis.
The CAR test is an appropriate tool in practice for most of your patients as it provides an easy assessment of their ability to deal with stressors and is also reflective of how well they have dealt with stressors in the past.

References:

Tsigos C, Chrousos GP. Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, neuroendocrine factors and stress. Journal of psychosomatic research. 2002;53(4):865-871.

Fries E, Dettenborn L, Kirschbaum C. The cortisol awakening response (CAR): facts and future directions. IntJPsychophysiol. 2009;72(1):67-73.

Clow A, Hucklebridge F, Stalder T, Evans P, Thorn L. The cortisol awakening response: more than a measure of HPA axis function. NeurosciBiobehavRev. 2010;35(1):97-103.

Hackett RA, Kivimäki M, Kumari M, Steptoe A. Diurnal Cortisol Patterns, Future Diabetes, and Impaired Glucose Metabolism in the Whitehall II Cohort Study. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism. 2016;101(2):619-625.

Hammer F, Deutschbein T, Marx A, et al. High evening salivary cortisol is an independent predictor of increased mortality risk in patients with systolic heart failure. International journal of cardiology. 2016;203:69-73.

Analytes

  • Cortisol (on waking)
  • Cortisol +30 mins
  • Cortisol +60mins
  • Cortisol 12:00noon
  • Cortisol 4:00pm
  • Cortisol 8:00pm
  • DHEAs

Test Method

EIA (Enzyme immunoassay)

Common Conditions

  • Mental and Emotional Health
    • Anxiety
    • Brain fog
    • Sleep disorders
  • Cardiovascular Health
    • Blood pressure issues
  • Other Health Conditions
    • Energy levels
    • Fatigue
    • Headaches
    • Lack of stamina
    • Mild depression
    • Sexual dysfunction
  • Autoimmune and Immune System
    • Impaired immune system
  • Nutritional and Dietary Symptoms
    • Salt cravings
  • Endocrine and Hormonal Health
    • Thyroid dysfunction

Notice To Patients

NutriPATH practices in the usual practitioner-referral system for pathology laboratories. Patients are highly recommended to seek the supervision and guidance of a qualified healthcare practitioner for the interpretation of any lab results and associated information. NutriPATH can offer assistance in locating a suitable practitioner.

Find a Practitioner

How it works

Step 1

Order test

Your referring practitioner will place this order via their online portal.

Step 2

Collect Samples

A test kit will be dispatched to you and you can conveniently collect your sample in the comfort of your home.

Step 3

Return Samples

Return samples for analysis via the provided courier packaging.

Patient resources

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Practitioner resources

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