More On GI Testing
GI Testing Can Identify the Root Cause of Digestive Problems
GI testing can help identify the source of digestive symptoms such as gas, burping, bloating, heartburn, constipation and diarrhea. Naturopathic doctors often order functional lab testing to check for bacteria overgrowth, food sensitivities/allergies and inflammation. A stool analysis test offers comprehensive stool testing that measures levels of various microbes such as pathogenic bacteria, yeast and parasites, as well as checking for inflammation and immune function in the gut.
Comprehensive GI testing
A healthy digestive tract is the cornerstone of overall wellness. Naturopathic doctors specialize in helping their patients improve digestive health using comprehensive GI testing methods. This helps objectively evaluate your digestive tract and look at potential causes of symptoms.
There are various tests available to your naturopathic doctor that can be used to assess digestive health. With these tests, your naturopathic doctor can look further at your microbiome and see the levels of good bacteria, bad bacteria, yeast, fungus, and parasites. The test can also show if there are infections or intestinal permeability (leaky gut). This information can be used to create an individualized wellness plan tailored specifically for you.
Comprehensive stool tests are an invaluable asset when it comes to assessing digestion. One advanced test is the GI-MAP™ by Diagnostic Solutions Lab. This test can provide more information about your gut microbiome and your digestive health. It is one of the most comprehensive tests available and is particularly helpful in obtaining more information to figure out symptoms related to gastrointestinal conditions.
Inflammation markers are also important for assessing overall digestive health. This can be done alongside GI testing through a blood panel. Inflammation is present with digestive disorders such as Crohn's and Ulcerative Colitis. A comprehensive blood panel can include inflammation markers called CRP (C-Reactive Protein) and ESR (Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate).
Based on lab work results for GI testing and inflammation markers, your naturopathic doctor can create a wellness plan using clinical nutrition, botanical medicine and nutritional supplements as needed.
Food Sensitivity Testing
Food sensitivity testing can be used to identify foods that may lead to gastrointestinal issues (like bloating, gas, or diarrhea), headaches, fatigue, skin problems, joint pain, and other symptoms as well.
A food sensitivity is different from a food allergy. A sensitivity is a non-allergic reaction to certain foods. Reactions are often delayed, and symptoms may not appear until several hours or even days after consuming the trigger food. Food sensitivity reactions are generally milder, and do not lead to life-threatening anaphylactic reactions like food allergies.
Elimination diets can provide another way of testing for food sensitivities. With this process, foods are avoided for a certain period of time and then reintroduced one at a time. As foods are reintroduced, symptoms are monitored after each introduction attempt. This method might take more time, but can be another way to assess for reactions to foods.
Why You Should See Dr. Anne Berkeley
Dr. Anne Berkeley, located in Washington DC, specializes in Naturopathic and Functional Medicine. She is Board Certified in Naturopathic Endocrinology and is a Fellow to the American Board of Naturopathic Endocrinology. She is also a Certified Practitioner with the Institute for Functional Medicine.
Dr. Berkeley is Vice President of the District of Columbia Association of Naturopathic Physicians and has served a term as President as well. She is a member of the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians, the Endocrinology Association of Naturopathic Physicians and the Institute for Functional Medicine.
If you are interested in GI testing or food sensitivity testing, contact Dr. Anne Berkeley’s office to schedule an appointment.
