Proper digestion is the foundation of good health.
Without proper digestion, even the most nutritious diet
offers little benefit. We take our digestion for granted,
not thinking about all the natural and, more importantly,
unnatural substances that we ingest. The digestive tract
has the paradoxical function of breaking down and
absorbing nutrients yet acting as an immune and physical
barrier against the absorption of bacteria and microbes,
antigens, toxins and other foreign molecules. Dysfunction
in any aspect of the digestive tract can lead to illness,
allergies, inflammation and auto-immunity. Antacids,
laxatives and other medications only cover up the symptoms
and do nothing to treat the root imbalance.
Therefore non-invasive stool and urine tests can
evaluate the health of your gastrointestinal tract and
determine the origin of your symptoms and systemic
condition.
The following tests are available and may be
recommended:
Comprehensive Digestive Stool Analysis with or
without Parasitology Profile
Evaluates digestion, absorption, gut flora, colon
environment, parasites, pH, several metabolic markers for
digestion of fats, protein and carbohydrates
Intestinal Permeability (Urine)
This urine test can determine the integrity of your
intestinal tract. Increased permeability is also known as
"leaky gut" syndrome". Decreased permeability is also
referred to as malabsorption.
Gastro-Test (Performed in office)
This is a simple, yet illustrative test to assess the pH
of the stomach. Stomach acid is one of the most important
steps in activating the digestive process-it sterilizes,
activates enzymes, signals the release of hormones and
stimulates smooth muscle activity. Medications, age,
ulcers, H. pylori infection, diarrhea, constipation,
bloating, food sensitivities, skin problems are all
possible signs of inadequate stomach acid.
