Not only Hippocrates but also extensive research consistently shows that the well-being of the digestive system significantly influences overall health. Specifically, the collection of microorganisms in the gut, known as the gut microbiome, plays a vital role in moderating how dietary choices and various influences affect health, encompassing functions related to digestion, immunity, metabolism, and neuroendocrine activities. Utilising appropriate tools to evaluate gastrointestinal health can aid naturopaths in identifying the underlying reasons for chronic illnesses.

One of these tools is comprehensive stool analysis/Microbiome Mapping test – called slightly different at various labs.

What is this test and how can it help?

The Microbiome Mapping test allows to see what is happening inside your gastrointestinal system. The test can show specific microbes that tend to disturb the normal balance of your microbiome and lead to digestive problems as well as other chronic health conditions.

Who should consider doing a test?

• The test is ideal for those suffering from digestive complaints such as: constipation, diarrhea, bloating, reflux, stomach pain, irritable bowel, inflammatory bowel conditions, etc
• Valuable for those suffering hormonal imbalances as the test measures Beta glucuronidase which can affect the detoxification of estrogen, leading to estrogen dominant conditions.
• People with autoimmune disorders or other chronic condition: to get an extensive collection of microbial targets and digestive and immune markers.
• Those experiencing anxiety or depression as this can be strongly influenced by your gut bacteria, research suggests the gut has a strong influence on brain health.

As this is a simple stool test, it can be done at any age, from children to the elderly.

Benefits

• Screens the body for beneficial and pathogenic bacteria, parasites, fungi, opportunistic pathogens and viruses all which can have a negative impact on your health if imbalanced.
• Tests for leaky gut, pancreatic function, gut immune response and gut mediated inflammation providing healthcare practitioners a view of what is happening in the client’s gastrointestinal tract enabling them to formulate an individual and effective treatment for the client’s needs.
• The test will show the following markers, pathogenic and beneficial organisms:
• Parasites/Worms, Opportunistic Bacteria, Fungi/Yeast, Bacterial Pathogens, Viral Pathogens, Beneficial Bacteria; plus GIT markers inc. Faecal Occult Blood, Calprotectin, Pancreatic Elastase, secretory IgA, Zonulin, beta-glucoronidase.

When the test results are ready, we sit down with you and talk through your individual results and what it means to your health. Based on your presenting symptoms and considering the results we will put together a treatment plan.

There are a few laboratories in Australia that provide this kind of test. The one I utilise in my practice uses the latest technologies backed up by the most recent scientific evidence