Additional Markers Available with the GI Effects Stool Test

Campylobacter
This test screens for Campylobacter species, a common bacterial cause of gastroenteritis, often linked to undercooked poultry and contaminated water.

Clostridium difficile
Clostridium difficile (C. diff) is a bacterial pathogen known to cause severe intestinal symptoms, especially following antibiotic use. Please note: Testing is unavailable for children under 2 years of age due to the common occurrence of non-pathogenic colonisation in this age group.

Escherichia coli (E. coli)
This marker identifies various strains of E. coli, some of which can cause foodborne illness, including abdominal cramping and diarrhoea.

Helicobacter pylori
H. pylori is a well-known bacterium linked to stomach ulcers and gastric inflammation. Testing for this pathogen can assist in identifying and treating chronic digestive issues.

Faecal Lactoferrin
Lactoferrin is a protein released by white blood cells during inflammation. Elevated levels may indicate active intestinal inflammation and help distinguish between inflammatory bowel conditions and functional disorders like IBS.

Macroscopic Examination for Worms
This test visually inspects the entire stool sample before microscopic analysis to detect large parasites or tapeworm segments (proglottids).

If visible worms are noticed in the stool, collecting them separately from the stool (in a clean container or vial) is recommended for direct laboratory analysis.

Zonulin Family Peptide
Zonulin plays a crucial role in regulating the tight junctions in the intestinal lining. Elevated zonulin levels may signal increased intestinal permeability, commonly known as “leaky gut.” This can contribute to systemic inflammation, food sensitivities, and various autoimmune conditions.

KOH Preparation for Yeast
This test uses potassium hydroxide (KOH) to identify fungal elements in the stool, such as Candida species, helping to determine if yeast overgrowth contributes to gut symptoms.

Stool Sample Collection:
The GI Effects Comprehensive Digestive Stool Test requires stool samples collected over three separate days. This ensures the most accurate and complete assessment of digestive health.

Important Note on Worms:
If visible worms are found in any stool sample, please carefully remove the worm and place it into the provided vial, ensuring it is free from any faecal material. Alternatively, use a clean, separate container for transport to the laboratory. This ensures proper identification and analysis of the parasite.

To ensure accurate results from your GI Effects Comprehensive Digestive Stool Test, please follow these preparation instructions carefully:

Do Not Collect Samples If:

• You are menstruating.

• You are experiencing active bleeding from haemorrhoids.

Four Weeks Before Testing:

• Allow at least 4 weeks after a colonoscopy or barium enema before starting your stool sample collection.

Two Weeks Before Testing:

• Complete any course of antibiotics, antifungals, antiparasitics, or probiotic supplements (such as acidophilus or probiotic-rich foods like yoghurt or Activia®) at least two weeks before beginning the test.

Two Days Before Testing:

• Avoid taking digestive enzymes, antacids, or aspirin for two days before collecting your samples unless your healthcare provider instructs otherwise.

Lactoferrin Supplements:

• While lactoferrin doesn’t directly interfere with the test, it supports the gut lining and may impact certain results. For best accuracy, consider pausing lactoferrin supplements 72 hours before sample collection.

Prescription Medications:

• Do not stop any prescribed medications unless directed by your GP or healthcare practitioner.

This test does not have a strict minimum age requirement; however, it’s important to note that the laboratory’s reference ranges are based on children aged five and older.

Younger children, particularly infants and toddlers, have different biological baselines. For instance, calprotectin levels are naturally higher in children, and the gut microbiome in babies, especially those delivered vaginally—is heavily influenced by the mother’s microbiota. It also takes several years for a child’s gut flora to develop and stabilise fully.

Suppose you are testing a baby or toddler and are aware of these developmental differences. In that case, the results can still be highly informative, especially when interpreted under the guidance of a qualified practitioner. Let me know if you want this section styled as part of a web FAQ or info page!

Please return your samples using a next-day delivery service from Monday to Thursday. Ensure the samples are refrigerated before posting.

Your test kit includes a courier return option, and the cost of both the courier and the test is paid directly to the laboratory. Alternatively, you can use your next-day courier service to send the samples.

Tests typically take 2 to 3 weeks from the date you send them back. We will email you the results when we receive them.