Types of Gut Health Tests
There are several types of gut health tests.
Here are some of the most common mistakes, then the correct ones:
Not recommended Good test:
- IgG4 tests: These tests measure IgG4 antibodies to foods, but they reflect a normal immune response and not an intolerance. Their reliability is poor because IgG4 antibodies do not necessarily indicate a food sensitivity problem.
- ALCAT Test: This leukocyte activation test measures cellular responses to foods, but studies question its accuracy for diagnosing food intolerances due to variable reproducibility.
- Muscle testing (applied kinesiology): This method tests muscle strength when exposed to substances, but it lacks scientific evidence, making its reliability questionable.
- Pulse test: Claims to detect sensitivities based on changes in pulse after eating certain foods, but is considered pseudoscientific due to lack of controlled studies.
- Cytotoxicity test: This test observes changes in white blood cells when they are exposed to food substances. It is considered unreliable because it lacks scientific validation and can produce inconsistent results.
- MORA Bio-resonance: A holistic therapy based on detecting energetic imbalances, but there is no strong evidence to support its effectiveness in diagnosing or treating conditions.
- Vega test: an electrodermal test measuring skin resistance to detect intolerances, but its scientific basis is weak and results vary widely.
- Bioscreening: Like bio-resonance, this test claims to detect imbalances via frequency measurements. It’s controversial, with little scientific basis.
- Dria Test: Measures skin reactivity to allergens, but this technique is not widely accepted as a reliable diagnostic method.
- Bioresistance testing: Another term often linked to bioresonance testing, which lacks scientific validity.
- Hair follicle test: Analysis of hair samples to identify intolerances, but experts question its reliability and validity.
- Atrial-cardiac reflex: involves observing changes in pulse following stimulation of the ear. Much like the pulse test, it is not widely accepted due to lack of evidence.
- Electro-acupuncture: Similar to the Vega test, it uses electrical signals to diagnose intolerances, but it remains largely unproven.
- Iridology: Examines the iris to detect health problems, but scientific studies dismiss its claims as unreliable.
Who knew there were so many inaccurate gut tests like this?
Here are the best recommended bowel tests available.
Stool tests
Stool tests are probably the most common type of gut health test. They involve collecting a small sample of your feces and sending it to a laboratory for analysis. These tests can reveal a lot about your gut health, including:
- Whether you have parasites or harmful bacteria (O&P)
- If there is inflammation in your intestine (fecal calprotectin)
- Cancer (Qfit)
Stool tests are generally painless and can be done at home, making them a good starting point for many people. Using the GP service is the right way to go. The other options aren’t accurate, especially if you plan to check the types and amounts of bacteria in your gut. These microbiome tests vary widely, just like your gut microbiota.
Breathing tests
Breath tests are used to diagnose certain intestinal conditions. They work by measuring gases in your breath after drinking a special solution. Again, it is recommended to use the NHS service for reference results.
These tests can help with diagnosis:
- Lactose intolerance
- Fructose malabsorption
- Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)
Breath tests are also non-invasive and can usually be done in a doctor’s office or clinic.
Blood tests
Although blood tests do not directly examine your gut, they can provide important information about your overall health and how your gut is functioning.
Blood tests can check:
- Nutritional deficiencies, which could indicate poor absorption in the gut
- Signs of inflammation
- Celiac disease
- Food allergies or intolerances
Hydrogen Breath Test
This is a specific type of breathalyzer used to diagnose lactose intolerance and other conditions. You drink a solution containing lactose, then your breath is tested for hydrogen. If your body can’t digest lactose properly, it will produce more hydrogen, which ends up in your breath.
Good permeability tests
These tests, sometimes called “gut permeability” tests, check how well your intestines are functioning as a barrier. They involve drinking a solution containing two types of sugar, then testing your urine to see how much of each sugar passes into your gut.
Endoscopy and colonoscopy
These are more invasive tests that involve putting a camera into your digestive system. They are usually only done if other tests have not found the cause of your symptoms. An endoscopy examines your upper digestive tract, while a colonoscopy examines your large intestine.
When should you consider a gut health test?
You may want to consider getting an accurate gut health test if you experience symptoms such as:
- Frequent stomach pain or discomfort
- Bloating or gas
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Unexplained weight loss or gain
- Fatigue or lack of energy
- Skin problems like acne or eczema
- Frequent headaches
- Mood changes or anxiety
Remember that these symptoms can be caused by many factors, not just intestinal problems. This is why it is important to speak to a healthcare professional before testing.
The Role of a Dietitian in Gut Health Testing
As leading dietitians specializing in gut health, at 121 Dietitian we can provide valuable advice before and throughout the testing process.
Here’s how they can help you:
- Determine which tests you need: Depending on your symptoms and medical history, a dietitian can recommend which tests might be most helpful to you.
- Interpretation of test results: Gut health test results can be complex. A dietitian can help explain what your results mean and how they relate to your symptoms.
- Create a treatment plan: Once you get your test results, a dietitian can help you create a personalized plan to improve your gut health. This may include diet changes, lifestyle modifications, or additional medical treatment.
- Tracking progress: Your dietitian can help you monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan if necessary.
- Provide support: Dealing with gut health issues can be frustrating and overwhelming. A dietitian can provide emotional support and encouragement throughout your journey.
At 121 Dietitian, we use evidence-based approaches to help you achieve optimal gut health. We understand that improving gut health is not just about performing expensive tests, but also about creating a holistic plan that meets your individual needs and lifestyle.
The best approach is to complete our pre-appointment questionnaire and food diary. These will be assessed free of charge, then the best program will be recommended to you and, if you wish, booked for you, so you can be sure of which direction you should take.
What to expect after the test
After you get yours good health tests and you may not need it, your dietitian will discuss the results with you.
They might recommend:
- Changes to your diet, such as eating more fiber or avoiding certain foods
- Probiotics or other supplements to support your gut health
- Lifestyle changes, such as managing stress or getting more sleep
- Other medical tests or treatments if necessary
Gut health tests can provide valuable information about how your digestive system is functioning. Although they are not always necessary, they can be a useful tool for understanding and improving your gut health. If you’re considering testing your gut health or are suffering from digestive issues, consider contacting the experts at 121 Dietitian.
Our team of registered dietitians can provide you with the guidance and support you need to navigate the testing process and develop a personalized plan for optimal gut health.
Remember that everyone’s gut is unique and what works for one person may not work for another. Improving your gut health is often a process that takes time. Be patient with yourself and don’t hesitate to ask questions or seek help when you need it.
With the right approach and support, you can better understand your gut health and take steps to feel better.