You’ve probably heard of the GI-MAP by now, especially if you’ve had digestion issues like bloating and constipation. Read on to learn how you can take action (and finally feel better).

Stool Testing

Stool testing is an important tool used to identify the presence of inflammation, bacteria, and other pathogens in the digestive system.

By examining samples of stool under a microscope or using chemical tests, practitioners can determine if there are any healing opportunities to address infection or inflammation that may be causing symptoms.

Curious to get these insights for yourself? The Diagnostic Solutions Laboratory GI-MAP functional lab test is a great option!

What is the GI-MAP?

The GI-MAP is a functional lab from Diagnostic Solutions Laboratory. It’s a form of stool testing that looks at different organisms’ population in your gut.

What’s the main goal of the GI-MAP?

The goal of the GI-MAP is to give you actionable information that will further improve your digestion, and therefore, absorption, of food and nutrients. 

Check out a sample report here.

What does the GI-MAP measure?

The GI-MAP measures

• Bacterial pathogens
• Parasites
• Viral Pathogens
• H. pylori and virulence factors
• Commensal bacteria
• Bacterial phyla
• Dysbiotic and overgrowth bacteria
• Commensal overgrowth microbes
• Inflammatory and autoimmune-related bacteria
• Fungi/yeast
• Viruses
• Protozoa
• Worms
• Digestion
• GI markers
• Immune response markers

Bacterial pathogens, parasites, and viral pathogens

Bacterial pathogens can cause infections that lead to a range of symptoms including diarrhea, abdominal pain, and bloating. Parasites can cause similar symptoms but can also lead to malnutrition if left untreated. Viral pathogens are responsible for many gastrointestinal illnesses such as gastroenteritis and food poisoning. All three types of pathogens can contribute to an unhealthy gut microbiome if not managed properly.

H. pylori and virulence factors

H. pylori is a bacteria that has been found to play a role in gut health. It is found naturally in the human digestive tract and plays a role in digestion, inflammation, and the microbiome of the gut. Recent research has shown that H. pylori can have both beneficial and detrimental effects on gut health depending on the presence of virulence factors. 

If H. pylori is present with virulence factors, then this is a major healing opportunity as this combination tends to have detrimental effects on the body (for example, stomach ulcers, bloating, and inflammation of the stomach lining).

Commensal bacteria

The human gut is home to a variety of microorganisms, collectively known as the gut microbiome. These commensal bacteria play an important role in maintaining the health of our digestive system and overall well-being. They help with digestion, provide nutrients, and protect us from infection. 

They also have a direct impact on inflammation levels in the body, which can affect our immune system and mental health. Understanding the role of commensal bacteria in the gut is essential for improving our overall health and well-being.

As with all other indicators, it’s important to have the right balance.

Dysbiotic and overgrowth bacteria

Dysbiotic bacteria in the gut can have a profound effect on our health. Dysbiosis is an imbalance of the natural microbiome in the gut, which can lead to inflammation and poor gut health. Specifically, “bad” bacteria that is opportunistic.

Studies have shown that dysbiotic bacteria can cause various issues, including digestive problems, allergies, autoimmune diseases, and even mental health issues. By understanding how dysbiotic bacteria affect our bodies, we can take steps to improve our overall health and well-being.

What types of insights can I get from the GI-MAP?

The GI-MAP is the best way to learn a lot about your gut health. You’ll have a better understanding of what’s going on inside and the balance between all the microorganisms that make up your microbiome.

The GI-MAP provides a great snapshot of various markers, all of which can leave you with actionable steps to improve your gut health and digestion. Are your good bacteria low? Easy. Bad bacteria high? There’s a solution to that, too. Lifestyle changes play a big role in healing.

So… did someone say bye bye bloating?

Yes, yes we did. Put on that fitted dress tonight with confidence.

How do you take the GI-MAP?

In order to get a test kit, you must go through a health practitioner that has access to order the kit for you. 

Once ordered, the test kit will be mailed directly to your address, and you can take the test right from the comfort of your home.

The GI-MAP is a stool test. The test kit will come with a collection tray, gloves, and a collection vial. The kit will also include instructions on how to collect the stool and properly take a sample of it.

The results will be sent to your health practitioner, and then you will have a follow-up call to discuss the results and next steps. 

If you’re interested in the GI-MAP, check out the services page here. As an FDN-P, I have the ability to order these tests for you!

Summary

Stool testing is an important tool that can be used to assess the health of your gut. It can provide valuable information about the digestive system, such as the presence of inflammation and other signs of poor digestion. 

It can also help identify potential causes of digestive issues, such as food intolerance, bacterial overgrowth, and parasites. By understanding the results from stool testing, you can make informed decisions about changes to your diet and lifestyle to improve your gut health and overall wellbeing.