GI-MAP® Stool Test at Babcock Acupuncture

 

What is the GI-MAP

The GI-MAP® (GI Microbial Assay Plus) is a comprehensive at-home stool test that uses quantitative PCR (qPCR) to analyze the DNA of microbes in your gut. It identifies helpful and harmful organisms and key digestive/immune markers to guide targeted care for gut health.

 

What it measures

• Pathogenic & opportunistic bacteria, including H. pylori (with virulence factor genes)
• Parasites (protozoa & worms)
• Fungi/yeast
• Viruses (select GI pathogens)
• Antibiotic resistance genes (select)
• Intestinal health markers such as inflammation (e.g., calprotectin), digestion (e.g., elastase), immune function (e.g., secretory IgA), and more
• New for 2025: optional bile acids and short-chain fatty acids add-ons for deeper insight into digestion and microbiome function

 

Who might benefit

• Consider GI-MAP testing if you experience: bloating, reflux, IBS-type symptoms, constipation/diarrhea, suspected dysbiosis or SIBO patterns, chronic skin concerns, autoimmune flares, unexplained fatigue, or you want data-driven guidance for nutrition and supplements.
• (Testing does not diagnose conditions on its own; results are interpreted with your clinician.)

 

Why choose GI-MAP (qPCR DNA testing)

• High sensitivity/specificity: detects microbial DNA—even at low levels
• Quantitative results: shows how much of a microbe is present to track change over time
• Actionable markers: includes digestive, immune, and inflammatory indicators that inform care plans

 

How the process works

• Request a kit from our clinic.
• Collect a single stool sample at home following the step-by-step instructions in the kit.
• Ship via prepaid mailer to the lab.
• Review results with your practitioner and receive a personalized plan.
• Turnaround time: Typically 7–10 business days from when the lab receives your sample.

 

Preparing for collection

• Read all instructions before starting and do not stop prescription meds unless your prescriber tells you to.
• Follow the labeling/packaging steps exactly to avoid sample rejection.
• Full instructions are included in every kit.

 

What your report looks like

Your results clearly flag pathogens, opportunists, commensal/keystone microbes, and functional markers with clinical context for your provider.

 

 

Ready to get started?

Request your GI-MAP kit and a consultation to review results and next steps

 

 

Babcock Acupuncture
📞 941-499-7670
info@babcockacupuncture.com