Digestive Function Analysis

The Digestive Function Analysis is a group of 25 tests performed on a stool sample, providing valuable information about digestive function and gastrointestinal health.

The test evaluates:

The digestion of food molecules and absorption of nutrients.
The presence of hidden yeast or bacterial infections.
Intestinal flora balance.
Intestinal immune function.
Dietary fibre intake.

For good digestive function, the gastrointestinal tract must co-ordinate the breakdown, absorption and elimination of food.

There are a number of important elements, including the secretion of appropriate levels of digestive enzymes and the presence of an appropriate balance of bacteria.

Improper digestive function may be associated with poor immune function, food sensitivities or allergies, digestive symptoms such as constipation, diarrhoea, bloating and discomfort and other more systemic symptoms.

Who Should Have the Test?

The test is available to everyone.

It would be particularly valuable for:

Anyone over the age of 50.
Those with bloating or full feeling in the stomach, especially after eating, or intestinal gas.
Those with spastic colon, irritable bowel syndrome, nervous stomach, loose stools or constipation.
Those with food allergies.
Anyone with asthma, allergies, high blood pressure, heart disease, history of strokes, arthritis, pernicious anaemia, auto-immune disease or yeast infection.
Those needing antibiotics for more than one month at a time, or more than four times in their life.
Anyone who have ever taken oral contraceptives or steroids for extended periods.

For those with these any of these factors, then it could be argued that they should have the test every 12 - 24 months.

How Is It Done?

The Digestive Function Analysis is carried out by collecting two samples, and sending them off to the laboratory for analysis.

A special kit is provided, which should be sent to the laboratory in the post.

Results are available within 14 – 21 days, and we usually arrange a follow-up appointment at the Clinic a month after the test has been sent. Alternatively test results can be sent to you by post, and a follow-up telephone call can be made to a practitioner who can discuss the results with you and recommend further treatment as appropriate.

How Accurate are the Results?

The results are very accurate. We use a laboratory in the United States that provides high quality tests and results, and is accredited by a number of agencies. They are well established in their field, and have pioneered a number of tests for over 15 years.

There are no tests currently available in the UK that provides this comprehensive type of assessment.

What Advice Do You Get?

Full explanation is given of the test results and any advice recommended.

If the results are normal, then amino acid metabolism is normal, and there is no need for any treatment. A follow up test would be advisable in 12 - 24 months.

If any abnormalities are found, then treatment advised is on an individual basis. Treatment may be necessary to improve digestive function, to improve bacterial environment in the bowel or to improve elimination.

Treatments advised by Better Health include various nutritional, herbal and homoeopathic medicines, and will depend very much on the results of the tests carried out. The Digestive Function Analysis enables us to rationalise treatment in the best possible way.

How Much Does it Cost?

The current cost of the Digestive Function Analysis is £170. A carriage charge may be additional for shipping to the laboratory.

Further charges apply for any further consultations, tests or treatments, and these will be discussed with you fully as necessary.

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