Over the last few years gut health has really come into focus, as the intricate details of what's happening inside our bodies is more crucial than ever. But how can you see what's happening inside? Blood tests only tell so much and full body scans are incredibly expensive. One of the key diagnostic tests that we do have access to is stool testing, a process that might not be the most glamorous but is undeniably informative.
At The Natural Balance, this is a key tool we often use to help our clients, so we're absolutely dedicated to talking about it!
What Is a Stool Test & Why Is It Important?
A stool test involves collecting a sample of your faeces that is then sent off and analysed in a laboratory. Common tests are the stool occult blood test, designed to detect hidden blood in the stool, and the H pylori stool test, crucial for identifying H.pylori infections that can lead to ulcers. These are often done on the NHS if a patient presents with a specific set of symptoms.
However, what if your symptoms are more related to gas, bloating, constipation and/or diarrhoea? Intolerance to certain foods? General malaise and not feeling 100%? This is where a comprehensive stool test can help. This stool sample test can reveal a myriad of information about your gut health, from detecting infections to understanding your gut flora balance.
Whether you're experiencing symptoms like constipation, diarrhoea, or unexplained stomach pains, or you're just keen on a health check-up, our stool test kits provide detailed insights that help us to get right to the root of your concerns. Our GI Effects Stool Test and Calprotectin stool test are particularly sought after for their thoroughness in evaluating gut health issues.
The Role of Stool Testing in Diagnosing Gut Issues
Stool testing plays a pivotal role in diagnosing a range of conditions, from Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), parasitic infection and guy dysbiosis.
The Calprotectin stool test, for instance, is an invaluable tool in detecting inflammation in the intestines, a common marker of conditions like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.
At The Natural Balance, we believe in a holistic approach to health, understanding that the body works as an interconnected system. By offering stool testing as one of our diagnostic tools, we can help to not just to diagnose but to guide you towards the path of healing.
How Exactly Does It Work? It Sounds Awkward
Everything is done in the privacy of your own home. The kit come with everything you need for a hassle-free sample collection with detailed instructions and videos. Often you will need to collect your poo over a 24 hour period so it's best to plan to do it over a quiet weekend. Once completed, your sample is collected and taken to the lab for testing.
Yes, it can be awkward, and no one likes to talk about it, but this testing can reveal so much about one's health that it is worth any bit of awkwardness.
Who Is The Test Suited For?
The stool test is incredibly thorough, making it suitable for a wide range of symptoms. It's particularly recommended for gut dysbiosis, IBS, IBD, parasitic infections, or leaky gut—often diagnosed using a calprotectin stool test.
Symptoms indicating the need for a stool test include constipation, diarrhoea, blood in stools, acne, brain fog, recurrent thrush, new food sensitivities, chronic gas and bloating. There are many more, so if something isn't right, speak to a health professional. No symptom is too insignificant.
What If One Of My Symptoms Is Constipation, How Can I Do This Test?
Stool testing is can be conducted over a set period of time, allowing for sample collection whenever possible. So if you're frequently constipated this will be taken into consideration and you will be advised accordingly. Even a constipated stool sample can offer a wealth of information for analysis.
How can the test help a health professional treat me?
The GI Effects stool test is one of the most comprehensive yet accessible tests available, analysing over 20 types of bacteria and assessing inflammation levels, parasites, yeast infections, and digestive enzyme efficiency. It can be a crucial tool in diagnosing and treating gut disorders, offering insights into enzyme deficiencies and potential bacterial overgrowths. The report provided is incredibly detailed, providing a clear path for treatment.
Is It Expensive?
Yes, due to its detailed nature, this stool test is a private service not covered by the NHS. However, the investment in a stool test kit, such as the GI Effects, can be invaluable in uncovering the root cause of gut health issues and guiding effective treatment.
So whilst stool testing might seem daunting at first, it's a powerful tool in uncovering the secrets of your gut health. At The Natural Balance, we're here to guide you through every step of this journey, ensuring you have the support and knowledge to make informed decisions about your health. Whether you're concerned about symptoms or simply curious about your gut health, our stool testing services are designed with your wellbeing in mind.
Get in touch with us for more information on how to take the first step towards understanding your gut health better. Together, let's unlock the door to a healthier, happier you.
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Kelly Mulhall
Registered Nutritional Therapist
Kelly is a Registered Nutritional Therapist who focuses on positive physical and mental wellbeing, achieved through diet, lifestyle, sleep and exercise. Having struggled for years with IBS and hormonal imbalance, and increasingly frustrated with the lack of support and helpful advice from her GP, Kelly began her own journey of healing the body from the inside out. After seeing huge improvements she quit her job to study nutrition and focus on harnessing the healing powers of food to help other people in similar situations.
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