Why the Dutch Test Is the Weakest Test for Real Healing

Let me say it plainly: Knowing your hormone numbers does not tell you how to fix them.

That’s the fatal flaw of the Dutch test.

Take progesterone, for example. Let’s say your Dutch test results show low progesterone. Does that mean you need hormone replacement therapy? Herbs? Supplements?

Nope. Low progesterone almost always points to inflammation. Your body is basically saying, “This is not a safe time to get pregnant.” So it shuts down progesterone production.

The test showed you a problem. But it didn’t tell you why.

Same with estrogen. High estrogen? Could be a detox issue. Low estrogen? Could be nutrient deficiency, poor gut absorption, over-exercising, or even smoking. Again—the number doesn’t reveal the root cause.

And cortisol? I can’t tell you how many women come to me saying:

“I knew I had high cortisol—my Dutch test confirmed it!”

Okay, but what caused it? Was it psychological stress? Pathogens like H. pylori? Nutrient deficiencies? Mold? Heavy metals? Food sensitivities?

The Dutch test doesn’t tell you. And that’s the problem.

The Most Useful Marker on the Dutch Test

Now—before you think I’m just here to trash the Dutch—I’ll give credit where it’s due.

The most valuable part of the Dutch is its look at estrogen detoxification, especially phase two methylation.

This is gold.

If your test shows slow methylation, that’s a clue we can actually act on. Sometimes it ties to genetic mutations. Other times it’s nutrient insufficiency. And yes, there are specific supplements that can speed it up. I’ve seen clients’ estrogen dominance symptoms and mood issues improve dramatically once this piece was addressed.

But let’s be clear: This is one marker on a very expensive test. For most people, the Dutch is not the place to start.

When the Dutch Test Can Be Helpful

So, when does the Dutch test make sense?

• Fine-tuning: If you’ve already done deeper functional testing (like the GI Map, Organic Acids Test, HTMA, or food sensitivity testing), the Dutch can help refine your protocol.

• Confirming detox issues: If symptoms scream estrogen dominance and you want to know if phase one or phase two detox is struggling.

• Unusual cases: Women with suspected PCOS, irregular cycles, or stubborn hormone symptoms sometimes get extra clarity here.

Think of it like this: the Dutch test is a layering tool, not a starting point.

The Tests That Actually Reveal Root Causes

Here’s the real deal: hormones don’t just go off for no reason.

Something deeper is driving the imbalance.

That’s why, in my program (the Better Belly Blueprint), we don’t start with the Dutch. Instead, clients use our Lab Chooser Tool to determine which tests are most relevant based on symptoms and history.

Here are the tests that actually move the needle:

• GI Map – to uncover hidden infections, pathogens, and gut imbalances.

• Organic Acids Test (OAT) – to identify nutrient deficiencies, yeast, mold, and mitochondrial stress.

• HTMA (Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis) – to assess mineral balance and toxic heavy metals.

• Food Zoomer tests – to pinpoint true food sensitivities causing inflammation.

These are the labs that uncover why your progesterone, estrogen, or cortisol is off. Once you know that, you can actually build a healing protocol.

Why Most People Waste Thousands on the Wrong Tests

Here’s what I hear almost daily:

“I’ve spent over $10,000 on my health. I’ve seen ten different practitioners. I’ve tried every diet. And I’m still sick.”

Sound familiar?

Most of that wasted money goes to the wrong tests. Either incomplete testing (like basic blood work) or overhyped ones (like the Dutch).

The truth is—you can heal your hormone health without the Dutch test. You need to fix the root causes behind the hormone imbalance, not just stare at numbers.

This is why I’m always blunt with clients: If cash is tight, skip the Dutch. Spend your money on the GI Map, OAT, HTMA, or food testing first.