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Stool/Digestive Functional Testing

Targeted testing for targeted treatment.

From a young age, we develop eating patterns that determine the health of our gastrointestinal system (GI) tract and ultimately our whole bodies. Patients who consume the Standard North American Diet (SAD) which is high in processed and acid producing foods and low in acid-buffering fruits and vegetables creates imbalance which leads to ill health.

One of the most common conditions people complain to their doctor about is that of digestive problems. This includes abdominal pain, bowel dysfunction and indigestion. It has been said that 80% of households have one or more people with digestive problems.

The GI system serves multiple roles in the body including digestive, immune, and barrier functions – all of which dramatically influence your health. Anything that negatively affects the health of the GI tract such as a high-fat/low fiber diet. Food intolerance, certain medications, chronic stress or nutritional deficiencies, can lead to a disruption in GI function – potentially impacting many aspects of health such as:

  • Joint health
  • Immune function
  • Energy levels
  • Respiratory function
  • Digestion
  • Bowel irregularity
  • Weight
  • Mood
  • Skin / complexion
  • Mental acuity

Stool and digestive function testing can pinpoint specific organisms, digestive issues and tissue pathologies that can lead to problems with the digestive system. Targeted testing allows for targeted treatment for your specific health concerns. One does not have to have digestive problems to have an issue with the digestive system since the effects of poor digestive function can be felt over a wide range of organ systems. The following is a list of tests that are assessed through collection of a stool sample. Patients are given laboratory kits with all the instructions on how to store, package and send their sample(s) directly to the lab for testing. The naturopathic doctor will assess your case and choose a test that is best for you.

Stool Testing:

  • Comprehensive Stool Analysis with Parasitology
  • Comprehensive Parasitology
  • Parasitiology
  • Microbiological Profile
  • Bacterial Culture and Sensitivities
  • Yeast Culture and Sensitivities
  • Clostridium Difficile Toxins A and B
  • Elastase
  • Shiga Toxin E. Coli
  • H. Pylori Antigen
  • Lactoferrin
  • Macroscopic Examination
  • Secretory IgA

References

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