Specimen Type: STOOL
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Find a Doctor Provider Login / OrderGI Effects ® is a comprehensive assessment of complete gut health, assessing the root cause of most GI complaints.
Our combination of PCR, culture, and microscopic testing methods ensures any and all relevant organisms are identified.
Data driven analysis is based on our database of hundreds of thousands of complete stool profiles.
Clinical InformationThe GI Effects Stool Profiles are a suite of advanced stool tests that provide immediate, actionable clinical information for the management of gastrointestinal health. Utilizing cutting-edge technologies and biomarkers, these profiles offer valuable insight into digestive function, intestinal inflammation, and the intestinal microbiome. The overview pages make results interpretation quicker and easier, to prioritize treatment and assess microbiome status.
The GI Effects Stool Profiles can reveal important information about the root cause of many common gastrointestinal symptoms and non-GI conditions including:
The health of the entire body is dependent on a healthy gut and gut microbiome. Gut microbes are codependent with one another and with their human host, and the health of one affects the other. A sizeable volume of research associates a dysbiotic, or imbalanced gut microbiome with multiple disease states both within and outside of the GI tract. [19,20,21] The diverse metabolic activities of the microbiome ultimately impact the human host, and the activities of the human host ultimately affect the health of their microbiome.
The biomarkers on the GI Effects Comprehensive Profile (2200) reflect the 3 key functions of gut health arranged in the “DIG” format: Digestion/Absorption, Inflammation/Immunology, and the Gut Microbiome:
Our testing provides information on inflammation and how well you digest and absorb your food. Stool testing can also uncover imbalances in yeast, parasites, and healthy and unhealthy bacteria that live in the large intestine. This bacterial population is called the microbiome.
Systemic diseases can be linked to the GI tract and improving the health of your gut may improve your overall health. Identifying abnormalities through Genova’s testing allows you and your healthcare provider to develop a personalized treatment plan to improve your symptoms.
Review the Test Preparation tab to learn more about the collection process.
Microbiomix™ ModuleIn the era of microbiome research, we are beginning to see that our gut microbiome has more control over our health than we ever knew. Until now, we have only seen the tip of the iceberg. The latest technology and ongoing research shows us that the microbiome is one of the most important health indicators.
Microbiomix offers metagenomic shotgun/ whole genome sequencing to assess your patient's complete gut microbiome as well as its potential function. Metagenomics is considered the gold standard method to study the gut microbiota.[1]
Microbiomix is available with the GI Effects Comprehensive Profile. Microbiomix complements the information provided on the GI Effects. This additional information may reveal treatable abnormalities that are not seen on GI Effects. Microbiomix is also available as a stand-alone offering.
The Microbiomix platform detects bacteria, fungi, protists, and archaea amounting to over 28,000 species. Each person's microbiome contains over 200 species, all listed in the personalized report.
Microbiomix assesses the genetic potential to form unique metabolites such as hexa-LPS, TMA, histamine, vitamin production, branched chain amino acids, urease, GABA, hydrogen sulfide and many others - thus providing MORE information to help understand a patient's condition.
This metric is well-represented in the literature and is used to assess overall microbiome health. A diverse microbiome is ideal and is associated with greater health.
Tailored recommendations improve microbiome health which can influence overall health.
Adding Microbiomix to the GI Effects offers a more complete picture of overall gut health.
Gut microbiome research has revealed the impact the gut has on every system in the body. The metabolites produced by the microbiome are bioactive and influence human health. Microbiomix offers a broader look at the microbiome's ability to produce these metabolites and therefore potentially prevent future chronic disease and promote optimal health.
Clinicians often order stool testing to assess GI symptoms such as:
Additionally, since it is becoming recognized that the gut microbiome influences overall health, clinicians are beginning to look to the gut for numerous other health conditions including:
Genova is the first and only company to offer a stool test of this kind - combining biomarker analysis on the GI Effects Comprehensive Profile with the most comprehensive genotypic microbiome data using Microbiomix.
Metagenomic analysis heavily depends on reference databases. The organism library is unmatched in the industry with the ability to detect over 28,000 species.
Validity and accuracy studies show superior performance compared to other platforms.[3,4]
Microbiomix offers the most clinically relevant information about microbiome function and key organisms.
Patients with complex illnesses often benefit from the most comprehensive testing — casting a wide net yields more information. GI Effects Comprehensive plus Microbiomix offers the most complete gut health test with actionable results. Dietary changes, supplements and lifestyle changes can all beneficially impact gut health and improve test results. Patients can lead an improved quality of life as their GI concerns are resolved.
Test PreparationCertain medications, supplements, and/or foods may impact test results. Please note that the reference ranges were established based on patients who were taking no medications or supplements. In some instances it is unknown what potential impact a medication may have on test results.
There may be times when a patient may stay on a medication or dietary supplement during testing in order to evaluate its effectiveness. The recommendation to discontinue any substance is intended to establish a baseline finding. Below you will find a list detailing the potential interference or influence of certain substances on the biomarkers.
Genova never recommends that patients discontinue medically necessary medications or supplements in order to complete testing.
| Collection Pack Instruction | Recommended Timeframe to Discontinue | Possible Biomarker(s) Impacted |
|---|---|---|
| Anti-inflammatory and immune modulating medications | ||
| Aspirin and NSAIDs (i.e. ibuprofen, etc.) | 2 days | May influence inflammation/immune biomarkers (EPX, calprotectin, sIgA) |
| Steroid (i.e. prednisone, etc.) | No recommendation to discontinue | |
| Autoimmune medications (i.e. Humira, etc.) | ||
| Digestive tract medications and supplements | ||
| Probiotics (beneficial bacteria) | 2-4 weeks | May influence the beneficial bacteria levels on culture, as well as metabolic markers; the presence of beneficial bacteria may alter the levels of other bacteria, yeast and parasites |
| Antacids (i.e. proton-pump inhibitors) | 2-14 days (if ordering the H. pylori add-on, 14 days is recommended) | May result in false negative H. pylori if PPI not discontinued for 14 days (H2 blockers do not interfere); additionally, acid-blocking medications may influence levels of the digestion and absorption markers; PPIs may clear the body relatively quickly, however the antacid effect may linger 3-5 days; PPIs may elevate calprotectin levels |
| Bismuth | 2 days; if ordering the H. pylori add-on, 14 days is recommended | May result in false negative H. pylori if bismuth not discontinued for 14 days; may affect other bacterial levels; bismuth obscures the O&P exam microscope slides making it difficult to identify parasites - it is a direct interferent and may result in inaccurate findings |
| Antacids (i.e. Tums, Rolaids, H2 blockers) | 2 days | Acid-blocking medication may influence levels of the digestion and absorption markers |
| Bentonite clay | Bentonite clay affects bacteria and parasites that may be identified through microscopic examination and culture growth; this substance is a direct interferent and may result in inaccurate findings | |
| Betaine HCl | Hydrochloric acid is intended to improve digestion; therefore, markers of digestion and absorption may be influenced | |
| Digestive enzymes | Enzymes are intended to improve digestion; therefore, markers of digestion and absorption may be influenced | |
| Laxatives | Laxatives are intended to alter transit time; if laxative use results in normalized transit, there may be no effect on biomarkers. However if transit time is rapid, the markers of digestion and absorption may be influenced; mineral oil obscures the O&P exam microscope slides making it difficult to identify parasites - it is a direct interferent and may result in inaccurate findings | |
| Mineral oil, castor oil | ||
| Activated charcoal | Activated charcoal can make identification of organisms seen in culture and microscopic examination more difficult; this substance is a direct interferent and may result in inaccurate findings | |
| Rectal suppositories, enemas | These agents can alter the density of stool samples resulting in inaccurate biomarker findings | |
| Please note that a period of 4 weeks between a colonoscopy or barium enema and stool testing is recommended. It has been observed that 4 weeks is sufficient time for most patients to resume their previous level of gut function, including the elimination of all traces of barium, dietary/digestive normalization, and re-generation of microflora populations. | ||
| Antimicrobial Agents | ||
| Antibiotics | 14 days | May influence levels of bacteria, yeast and parasites, as well as metabolic markers; may result in false negative H. pylori if antibiotic not discontinued for 14 days |
| Antifungals | ||
| Antiparasitics | ||
We do not suggest collecting during an acute gastrointestinal infectious illness.
We do not generally recommend stool testing in children under the age of two as they are still establishing their gut flora which can impact numerous findings on the test. Inflammatory markers, such as calprotectin and lactoferrin, can also be skewed in younger children, especially if they are still breastfeeding. Reference ranges for many of the markers have not been established for this population.
Genova will not accept add-on testing for Clostridium difficile in individuals less than 2 years old based on recent research indicating non-pathogenic colonization in this age group. 1
If the patient has a bleeding hemorrhoid(s) or is menstruating, it may interfere with the fecal occult blood test. It is preferred that the patient collect samples when there is not active bleeding.
Genova's stool profiles and reference ranges were not designed with this patient population taken into account. Test results and applicability for a patient who has had a complete or partial colectomy is unknown. Removal of the colon would be expected to impact the microbiome portion of the test, as the colon is the site where the majority of the bacteria reside. The metabolic by-products made by these bacteria may also be impacted. However, there may be clinical value in some of the other biomarkers on the test regarding inflammation and digestion/absorption. It would also be useful to see if there are any pathogenic or potentially pathogenic organisms present.
The GI Effects Stool Profiles are a suite of advanced stool tests that provide immediate, actionable clinical information for the management of gastrointestinal health. Utilizing cutting-edge technologies and biomarkers, these profiles offer valuable insight into digestive function, intestinal inflammation, and the intestinal microbiome. The overview pages make results interpretation quicker and easier, to prioritize treatment and assess microbiome status.
The GI Effects Stool Profiles can reveal important information about the root cause of many common gastrointestinal symptoms and non-GI conditions including:
The health of the entire body is dependent on a healthy gut and gut microbiome. Gut microbes are codependent with one another and with their human host, and the health of one affects the other. A sizeable volume of research associates a dysbiotic, or imbalanced gut microbiome with multiple disease states both within and outside of the GI tract. [19,20,21] The diverse metabolic activities of the microbiome ultimately impact the human host, and the activities of the human host ultimately affect the health of their microbiome.
The biomarkers on the GI Effects Comprehensive Profile (2200) reflect the 3 key functions of gut health arranged in the “DIG” format: Digestion/Absorption, Inflammation/Immunology, and the Gut Microbiome:
Our testing provides information on inflammation and how well you digest and absorb your food. Stool testing can also uncover imbalances in yeast, parasites, and healthy and unhealthy bacteria that live in the large intestine. This bacterial population is called the microbiome.
Systemic diseases can be linked to the GI tract and improving the health of your gut may improve your overall health. Identifying abnormalities through Genova’s testing allows you and your healthcare provider to develop a personalized treatment plan to improve your symptoms.
Review the Test Preparation tab to learn more about the collection process.
In the era of microbiome research, we are beginning to see that our gut microbiome has more control over our health than we ever knew. Until now, we have only seen the tip of the iceberg. The latest technology and ongoing research shows us that the microbiome is one of the most important health indicators.
Microbiomix offers metagenomic shotgun/ whole genome sequencing to assess your patient's complete gut microbiome as well as its potential function. Metagenomics is considered the gold standard method to study the gut microbiota.[1]
Microbiomix is available with the GI Effects Comprehensive Profile. Microbiomix complements the information provided on the GI Effects. This additional information may reveal treatable abnormalities that are not seen on GI Effects. Microbiomix is also available as a stand-alone offering.
The Microbiomix platform detects bacteria, fungi, protists, and archaea amounting to over 28,000 species. Each person's microbiome contains over 200 species, all listed in the personalized report.
Microbiomix assesses the genetic potential to form unique metabolites such as hexa-LPS, TMA, histamine, vitamin production, branched chain amino acids, urease, GABA, hydrogen sulfide and many others - thus providing MORE information to help understand a patient's condition.
This metric is well-represented in the literature and is used to assess overall microbiome health. A diverse microbiome is ideal and is associated with greater health.
Tailored recommendations improve microbiome health which can influence overall health.
Adding Microbiomix to the GI Effects offers a more complete picture of overall gut health.
Gut microbiome research has revealed the impact the gut has on every system in the body. The metabolites produced by the microbiome are bioactive and influence human health. Microbiomix offers a broader look at the microbiome's ability to produce these metabolites and therefore potentially prevent future chronic disease and promote optimal health.
Clinicians often order stool testing to assess GI symptoms such as:
Additionally, since it is becoming recognized that the gut microbiome influences overall health, clinicians are beginning to look to the gut for numerous other health conditions including:
Genova is the first and only company to offer a stool test of this kind - combining biomarker analysis on the GI Effects Comprehensive Profile with the most comprehensive genotypic microbiome data using Microbiomix.
Metagenomic analysis heavily depends on reference databases. The organism library is unmatched in the industry with the ability to detect over 28,000 species.
Validity and accuracy studies show superior performance compared to other platforms.[3,4]
Microbiomix offers the most clinically relevant information about microbiome function and key organisms.
Patients with complex illnesses often benefit from the most comprehensive testing — casting a wide net yields more information. GI Effects Comprehensive plus Microbiomix offers the most complete gut health test with actionable results. Dietary changes, supplements and lifestyle changes can all beneficially impact gut health and improve test results. Patients can lead an improved quality of life as their GI concerns are resolved.
Certain medications, supplements, and/or foods may impact test results. Please note that the reference ranges were established based on patients who were taking no medications or supplements. In some instances it is unknown what potential impact a medication may have on test results.
There may be times when a patient may stay on a medication or dietary supplement during testing in order to evaluate its effectiveness. The recommendation to discontinue any substance is intended to establish a baseline finding. Below you will find a list detailing the potential interference or influence of certain substances on the biomarkers.
Genova never recommends that patients discontinue medically necessary medications or supplements in order to complete testing.
| Collection Pack Instruction | Recommended Timeframe to Discontinue | Possible Biomarker(s) Impacted |
|---|---|---|
| Anti-inflammatory and immune modulating medications | ||
| Aspirin and NSAIDs (i.e. ibuprofen, etc.) | 2 days | May influence inflammation/immune biomarkers (EPX, calprotectin, sIgA) |
| Steroid (i.e. prednisone, etc.) | No recommendation to discontinue | |
| Autoimmune medications (i.e. Humira, etc.) | ||
| Digestive tract medications and supplements | ||
| Probiotics (beneficial bacteria) | 2-4 weeks | May influence the beneficial bacteria levels on culture, as well as metabolic markers; the presence of beneficial bacteria may alter the levels of other bacteria, yeast and parasites |
| Antacids (i.e. proton-pump inhibitors) | 2-14 days (if ordering the H. pylori add-on, 14 days is recommended) | May result in false negative H. pylori if PPI not discontinued for 14 days (H2 blockers do not interfere); additionally, acid-blocking medications may influence levels of the digestion and absorption markers; PPIs may clear the body relatively quickly, however the antacid effect may linger 3-5 days; PPIs may elevate calprotectin levels |
| Bismuth | 2 days; if ordering the H. pylori add-on, 14 days is recommended | May result in false negative H. pylori if bismuth not discontinued for 14 days; may affect other bacterial levels; bismuth obscures the O&P exam microscope slides making it difficult to identify parasites - it is a direct interferent and may result in inaccurate findings |
| Antacids (i.e. Tums, Rolaids, H2 blockers) | 2 days | Acid-blocking medication may influence levels of the digestion and absorption markers |
| Bentonite clay | Bentonite clay affects bacteria and parasites that may be identified through microscopic examination and culture growth; this substance is a direct interferent and may result in inaccurate findings | |
| Betaine HCl | Hydrochloric acid is intended to improve digestion; therefore, markers of digestion and absorption may be influenced | |
| Digestive enzymes | Enzymes are intended to improve digestion; therefore, markers of digestion and absorption may be influenced | |
| Laxatives | Laxatives are intended to alter transit time; if laxative use results in normalized transit, there may be no effect on biomarkers. However if transit time is rapid, the markers of digestion and absorption may be influenced; mineral oil obscures the O&P exam microscope slides making it difficult to identify parasites - it is a direct interferent and may result in inaccurate findings | |
| Mineral oil, castor oil | ||
| Activated charcoal | Activated charcoal can make identification of organisms seen in culture and microscopic examination more difficult; this substance is a direct interferent and may result in inaccurate findings | |
| Rectal suppositories, enemas | These agents can alter the density of stool samples resulting in inaccurate biomarker findings | |
| Please note that a period of 4 weeks between a colonoscopy or barium enema and stool testing is recommended. It has been observed that 4 weeks is sufficient time for most patients to resume their previous level of gut function, including the elimination of all traces of barium, dietary/digestive normalization, and re-generation of microflora populations. | ||
| Antimicrobial Agents | ||
| Antibiotics | 14 days | May influence levels of bacteria, yeast and parasites, as well as metabolic markers; may result in false negative H. pylori if antibiotic not discontinued for 14 days |
| Antifungals | ||
| Antiparasitics | ||
We do not suggest collecting during an acute gastrointestinal infectious illness.
We do not generally recommend stool testing in children under the age of two as they are still establishing their gut flora which can impact numerous findings on the test. Inflammatory markers, such as calprotectin and lactoferrin, can also be skewed in younger children, especially if they are still breastfeeding. Reference ranges for many of the markers have not been established for this population.
Genova will not accept add-on testing for Clostridium difficile in individuals less than 2 years old based on recent research indicating non-pathogenic colonization in this age group. 1
If the patient has a bleeding hemorrhoid(s) or is menstruating, it may interfere with the fecal occult blood test. It is preferred that the patient collect samples when there is not active bleeding.
Genova's stool profiles and reference ranges were not designed with this patient population taken into account. Test results and applicability for a patient who has had a complete or partial colectomy is unknown. Removal of the colon would be expected to impact the microbiome portion of the test, as the colon is the site where the majority of the bacteria reside. The metabolic by-products made by these bacteria may also be impacted. However, there may be clinical value in some of the other biomarkers on the test regarding inflammation and digestion/absorption. It would also be useful to see if there are any pathogenic or potentially pathogenic organisms present.
