Digestive Health Tests›Advanced Intestinal Barrier Assessment (AIBA)
Gut Permeability / Leaky Gut
Advanced Intestinal Barrier Assessment (AIBA)
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AIBA is a valuable test for individuals suspected of having intestinal permeability, commonly known as “leaky gut.” Developed through extensive experience by integrative practitioners, this test aims to identify underlying imbalances contributing to gut barrier dysfunction.
At INTEGRATIVE NUTRITION CLINIC LONDON, we are dedicated to providing the Advanced Intestinal Barrier Assessment at a competitive price, ensuring accessibility for those looking to enhance their gut health.
Who can benefit from this test?
Your practitioner may recommend this test if you have:
- Suspected leaky gut or a compromised gut barrier
- Histamine intolerance symptoms — flushing, headaches, hives
- Food reactions and multiple sensitivities
- Bloating, discomfort and unpredictable digestion
- Autoimmune or inflammatory conditions
- A wish to assess zonulin, DAO and histamine together
Learn more about this test
What the test involves
A blood sample assessing the key regulators of gut barrier integrity — zonulin, DAO, histamine and immune response to bacterial leakage.
This test measures:
- Zonulin, a key regulator of gut barrier tightness
- Diamine oxidase (DAO), the histamine-clearing enzyme
- Histamine levels
- The DAO-to-histamine ratio
- Lipopolysaccharides (LPS) and immune response
- Overall intestinal permeability (“leaky gut”)
Frequently asked questions
Diamine Oxidase (DAO)
Histamine
DAO to Histamine Ratio
Zonulin
Lipopolysaccharides (LPS) IgA
Lipopolysaccharides (LPS) IgG
Lipopolysaccharides (LPS) IgM
This test requires a fasting blood sample.
Fasting Instructions: Avoid consuming food for at least 12 hours before your blood draw. Water is permitted.
Arranging Your Blood Draw: You can arrange your blood draw through one of the following:
A private phlebotomy service
A clinic or hospital offering phlebotomy
Your GP surgery (if available)
Please note that the cost of the blood draw is not included in the test price and must be arranged independently.
• Discontinue Antihistamines: Please stop taking all antihistamine medications at least 5 days before your blood draw.
Always consult your GP or healthcare provider before stopping any prescribed medications.
Prepare Your Cold Pack: To maintain sample integrity during transport, ensure the cold pack is frozen for at least hours before your blood draw.
This test is ideal for individuals aged 3 years and older. Please note that the sample requires a blood draw, which can be more challenging in younger children.
While gram-negative bacterial overgrowth can occur at any age, the immune response (antibody production) may not fully develop in children under 5. This may influence the accuracy or interpretation of results in very young patients.
To ensure accurate test results, please follow these preparation steps:
Discontinue antihistamines at least 5 days before your blood draw.
Avoid steroid medications for one week before testing.
Do not stop any prescribed medication unless advised by your healthcare provider.
Fasting is required. Do not eat any food for 12 hours before your blood draw. Water is allowed.
Your test kit will include detailed instructions – please read and follow them carefully.
• Book your courier at least 24 hours before your scheduled blood draw.
• This test requires centrifugation. If centrifuging is not available at your blood draw location:
Ensure your blood is drawn in the morning.
Use a next-day delivery service to ensure the sample arrives at the lab before 1 pm.
The lab will centrifuge the sample upon receipt.
• Return your sample between Monday and Wednesday using the prepaid label and instructions in your test kit.
Tests typically take 2 to 3 weeks from the date you send them back. We will email you the results when we receive them.
