Stool Chemistries

Overview:

Cornerstones of good health include proper digestion of food, assimilation of nutrients, exclusion of pathogens and timely elimination of waste. To obtain benefits from food that is consumed, nutrients must be appropriately digested and then efficiently absorbed into portal circulation. Microbes, larger-sized particles of fiber, and undigested foodstuffs should remain within the intestinal lumen. Poor digestion and malabsorption of vital nutrients can contribute to degenerative diseases, compromised immune status and nutritional deficiencies.

Impairment of the highly specific nutrient uptake processes, or compromised GI barrier function, as in "leaky gut syndrome," can result from a number of causes including: Low gastric acid production Chronic maldigestion Food allergen impact on bowel absorptive surfaces Bacterial overgrowth or imbalances (dysbiosis) Pathogenic bacteria, yeast or parasites and related toxic irritants The use of NSAIDs and antibiotics Impairment of intestinal functions can contribute to the development of food allergies, systemic illnesses, autoimmune disease, and toxic overload from substances that are usually kept in the confines of the bowel for elimination.

Efficient remediation of GI dysfunctions incorporates a comprehensive guided approach that should include consideration of elimination of pathogens and exposure to irritants, supplementation of hydrochloric acid, pancreatic enzymes and pre- and probiotics, and repair of the mucosal barrier.

Performing Lab: DDINT