The Gastrointestinal Microbial Assay Plus (GI MAP) is a test that measures gastrointestinal microbiota DNA from a single stool sample with quantitative polymerase chain reaction technology. We can identify microbes that may be disrupting healthy and normal microbial balance, as well as observe indications of digestion, absorption, inflammation, and immune function. Testing is the only way to know if there is a parasitic, bacterial, or fungal infection present. Objective data from this test allows us to utilize targeted nutritional therapy to minimize opportunistic bacteria, help the “good” bacteria proliferate, and calm any inflammation going on in the gut that could be affecting your health.

Increased intestinal permeability, commonly referred to as leaky gut syndrome, occurs when the tight junctions between cells of the intestinal lining are altered, enabling substances to pass through the intestinal wall and into the bloodstream. This process results in food sensitivities.

When someone has a food sensitivity, the body views the food as an invader. White blood cells release chemical mediators such as cytokines and histamine that create inflammation. The test measures the release of chemical mediators in the blood and quantifies the degree of reactivity of each food and chemical, allowing us to build a highly individualized nutritional protocol.

Food sensitivities can contribute to inflammation in the body and cause myriad of symptoms, such as diarrhea, cramping, headaches, joint pain, fatigue, eczema, and dermatitis. People may have food sensitivities and not even know it. Adverse food reactions exist on a spectrum. Elimination diets are not the best way to identify these triggers because food can cause a reaction up to 72 hours after ingestion! It could also be not one food with a high sensitivity causing problems, but rather the cumulative effects of multiple low level reactive foods causing symptoms. It is best to test, not guess!

The gastrointestinal system is the main “portal” for taking in and processing nutrients, but it also serves a communication center and disease fighter. From your nervous and immune systems to your mental health and digestive function, a healthy gut plays a pivotal role in your overall well-being.

• You have an upset stomach.

• You feel tired more often than not.

• You have trouble sleeping in general.

• You are intolerant to some foods.

• You have extreme food cravings, especially sugar.

• You have unintentional weight gain or loss.

• You are experiencing skin inflammation.

• You may be experiencing headaches or migraines.

• You are experiencing mood fluctuations.