Functional Diagnostic Assessments

GI Map® Test

The GI-MAP tests for amounts of good and bad bacteria, H. Pylori, Candida, and other parasites in a stool sample, and in addition, measures leakage due to leaky gut syndrome. It is an improvement on previously standard techniques which relied on culturing a bacteria sample, as unlike a culture, GI-MAP is able to detect species of bacteria which cannot grow under normal conditions

What Is GI-MAP Testing
And What Can It Do For Me?

Almost everyone can benefit from a GI-MAP gut health assessment. Some are looking to achieve optimal health, while other patients have been chronically ill and frustrated without a diagnosis for years.

The test can spot problems in a patient’s gut flora. For example, certain organisms which are common in healthy individuals, such as Candida, can cause health problems if they are in excess. This is a condition known as dysbiosis. Candida in particular can cause many chronic issues, such as fatigue, lethargy, rashes, joint pains, constipation, and diarrhea, among others.

Some conditions that warrant testing are:

  • Autoimmune diseases
  • IBS/IBD
  • Digestive complaints, diarrhea or constipation
  • Brain fog
  • Skin problems, like acne and psoriasis
  • Mood disorders, depression, and anxiety
  • Diabetes and weight loss issues

The GI Map Thoroughly
Tests Your Gut Microbes

Your stool sample is tested for the presence and levels of:

  • The common beneficial friendly gut bacteria.
  • Commensal bacteria – these are neither friendly nor unfriendly, they are fine when present in small amounts and problematic if overgrown.
  • Pathogenic bacteria that cause inflammation.
  • Bacteria associated with autoimmune disease.
  • Worms
  • Parasites – these are microscopic and more common than you may think.
  • H Pylori bacteria
  • Epstein-Barr virus
  • Yeast and fungal organisms such as Candida.
  • Leaky gut
  • Gluten sensitivity
  • Inflammation

Interpretation and Treatment

Once results are received, a thorough explanation of symptoms is reviewed and is also provided to you. From the interpretation we can assess the level of inflammation, the diet modifications required and treatment options which can include supplementation, herbs, botanical and homeopathic remedies. Follow ups and ongoing support is provided for treatment success.

The Five “R” Treatment Protocol

A thorough analysis of the results will provide the appropriate intervention. As a framework, the 5 R approach addresses offending pathogens and helps to restore balance to the GI tract.

Remove

Using a course of antimicrobial, antiviral, antifungal or anti parasitic therapies, in cases where these organisms are present. It may also be necessary to remove offending foods, gluten or medication that may be acting as antagonists.

Replace

In cases of maldigestion or malabsorption, it may be necessary to restore proper digestion by supplementing with digestive enzymes.

Reinoculate

Recolonization with healthy, beneficial bacteria. Possible supplementation with the use of prebiotics helps re-establish the proper microbial balance.

Repair

Restore the integrity of the gut mucosa by giving support to healthy mucosal cells as well as immune support.

Rebalance

This is entirely dependent on habitual lifestyle choices – good sleep, moderate exercise, continued good nutritional choices, and having a daily stress management habit are all keys towards maintaining good gut health.  In particular, stress management is often forgotten, but the cortisol that is released during persistent stress causes the gut lining to be “thin” and susceptible to damage.