Understanding Your Gut Health

GI-MAP® Stool Test

Gut health plays an important role in overall well-being. Beyond digestion, the gastrointestinal tract is closely connected to immune function, inflammation, and aspects of energy, mood, and metabolic health.

Trillions of microorganisms—often referred to as the microbiota or gut flora—live in the digestive tract. These microbes support digestion, contribute to vitamin production, interact with the immune system, and help maintain the integrity of the intestinal lining.

Factors such as dietary habits, stress, medications (including antibiotics), infections, and environmental exposures can influence this balance. When the microbiome becomes imbalanced (often referred to as dysbiosis), it may be associated with symptoms like bloating, gas, constipation, diarrhea, fatigue, skin concerns, and changes in mood or focus.

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How Gut Health May Affect the Body

The gut is connected to multiple systems in the body, including the immune and nervous systems. Imbalances in the gut environment may be associated with:

• Digestive discomfort (bloating, gas, constipation, diarrhea)

• Changes in immune function

• Inflammatory responses

• Mood, focus, and mental clarity

• Weight and metabolic health

Understanding gut health can provide helpful insight into factors that may be contributing to ongoing symptoms.

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What Is the GI-MAP® Test?

The GI-MAP® (Gastrointestinal Microbial Assay Plus), offered by Diagnostic Solutions Laboratory, is a stool test that uses DNA-based technology (qPCR) to assess microbial patterns and selected markers related to gastrointestinal function.

This test is designed to provide information about the gut environment. When reviewed alongside your health history and symptoms, it can help guide personalized nutrition and lifestyle recommendations.

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What Does the GI-MAP® Measure?

The GI-MAP® evaluates several categories:

Pathogens

Bacteria, parasites, or viruses that may be associated with digestive symptoms or illness.

Commensal (Beneficial) Bacteria

Microorganisms that are typically part of a healthy gut and play a role in digestion and immune balance.

Opportunistic Bacteria

Microbes that may be present in the gut but can become more prominent when balance is disrupted.

Fungi & Yeast

Includes organisms such as Candida species. Levels are interpreted in the context of your overall health picture.

Parasites

Certain parasites may impact digestion and nutrient absorption and may be considered when symptoms are persistent.

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Key Functional Markers of Gut Health

Digestion & Absorption

Markers like pancreatic elastase and steatocrit provide insight into digestive capacity and fat absorption.

Immune Activity (Secretory IgA)

A marker of immune function within the gut lining.

Gluten-Related Immune Response (Anti-gliadin IgA)

May indicate immune reactivity to gluten components and can be explored alongside dietary patterns and symptoms.

Inflammation (Calprotectin)

A marker used to assess intestinal inflammation and determine whether further medical follow-up may be appropriate.

Gut Barrier Function (Zonulin)

Associated with intestinal permeability. Interpretation should be considered carefully within the broader clinical picture.

Additional Markers

Markers such as beta-glucuronidase and fecal occult blood may provide additional insight into digestive and gut health processes.

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Working Together

As a Certified Nutritional Practitioner, I use GI-MAP® results as one piece of the puzzle. By combining your test results with your symptoms, health history, and goals, I develop a personalized plan focused on:

• Nutrition strategies

• Lifestyle support

• Targeted supplementation (when appropriate)

  
  

When needed, I may also recommend working alongside your primary healthcare provider to ensure comprehensive care.

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Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure medical conditions. As a Certified Nutritional Practitioner, I provide nutrition and lifestyle guidance and do not replace medical care. The GI-MAP® test is a functional assessment tool and is not a substitute for medical diagnosis. Please consult your physician or licensed healthcare provider for any medical concerns or before making changes to prescribed treatments.