GI-MAP (GI-Microbial Assay)

This test can be run for men or women, and there is no upper age limit to run this test. This test is a great idea for anyone struggling with:

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

Once you place your order, we will ship your test kit to you. You will then collect your sample and return to the lab the return package included. Once your sample is received at the lab, expect about 2-3 weeks before the results are back and you review your 30-minute interpretation and plan

The zonulin marker assesses for hyperpermeability in the gut lining. The lining of the gut is composed of a single layer of cells that are held together by something called tight junctions. These tight junctions are meant to be able to open and close based upon the needs of the system at any particular time. Zonulin regulates the opening of the tight junctions. While this is desirable at times, certain types of infections and gliadin (the oft-problematic protein in gluten) can upregulate zonulin and create chronic intestinal hyperpermeability (aka leaky gut).

While the GI Map does test for the anti-gliadin antibody (associated with non-celiac gluten sensitivity) this part of the test can sometimes return negative even if leaky gut is present. The zonulin add-on is useful to see if grains could be causing a leaky gut.

Zonulin may also be suggestive of a leaky brain beyond just a leaky gut. Dr. Michelle believes this is a really great marker.

The GI Map is an at-home test that requires a stool sample. Collection is simple and complete instructions are included with your kit.

Test Preparation

You will need to discontinue some gut-related supplements prior to testing.

• Antimicrobials (like Biocidin or antimicrobial essential oils, such as Digestzen, oregano, turmeric oils): Discontinue one week prior to testing. 
• Probiotics: Discontinue one week prior to testing.
• Digestive enzymes: Please discontinue digestive 3 days prior to testing. (The only exception would be if you are dependent on taking enzymes and will provoke stomachaches or other issues if you discontinue for a week. In these cases, take out probiotics, and continue taking whatever enzymes you need.)
• Antibiotics: If you have been on a round of antibiotics recently, you can still take this test and get helpful results.  Wait a week after completing antibiotics if possible.
• Fermented foods (like kefir and sauerkraut): These are generally acceptable before the test, but you may want to back off or stop altogether a few days prior.

You can stay on prescription medications and all other supplements such as vitamins, fish oil, and herbal supports.  

**If you depend on your probiotics and digestive enzymes to feel well, it is okay to continue these as it will have minimal impact on the test.  Just let the GLOW Natural Wellness team know that you opted to continue these supplements.  Antimicrobials and Antibiotics DO NEED A FULL WEEK OFF before testing.

Note: If you recently had a colonoscopy, please wait a minimum of one week before running this test.

Collection Instructions

Please see this document from the lab, in your kit or at the link below, detailing the collection instructions:

https://www.diagnosticsolutionslab.com/sites/default/files/Stool-Collection-Instructions.pdf

We do not bill insurance, but we do accept HSA/FSA as a form of payment. Simple select TrueMed HSA/FSA at checkout for your payment option. This allows you to reduce out of pocket costs by as much as 40%.