Gut Health Check
$359 NZD
There are medical explanations and labels for many gut problems, but the big exception is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Since many gut disorders have similar symptoms to IBS, ruling out a more serious underlying gut disease is an important first step. That's why we've designed this comprehensive panel of tests which screens for all the usual suspects.
Unpacking your Irritable Bowel
IBS affects over 20% of Australians with a long list of all too familiar and awkward symptoms that include abdominal pain, cramping or discomfort, bloating, diarrhoea and/ or constipation, mucus, excess wind, and indigestion. Only recently have we begun to unpack the mysteries of IBS. Whilst we don't yet know exactly what causes it, a number of causal factors have been put forward, which range from genetics, the immune system, the microbiome and infections, to diet, stress and even mental health. Since many gut disorders have similar symptoms to IBS, ruling out a more serious underlying gut disease is an important first step in troubleshooting the irritable bowel.
What's included
Faecal Occult Blood
This test is used to detect bleeding in the digestive tract. It can detect tiny traces of blood in the stool, and can indicate the presence of disease at a relatively early stage when stools may appear normal.
Ova, Cysts and Parasites
This microscopic evaluation is used to look for parasites that have infected the lower digestive tract. The parasites, or their eggs or cysts can be detected under the microscope.
PCR Test - Bacteria
Technology for detecting parasites and other pathogens has improved dramatically since 2013. This PCR (polymerase chain reaction) test looks for the genetic fingerprint of a wide range of pathogens. This is a far more sensitive test than the old fashioned technique of looking through a microscope.
PCR Test - Parasites
Technology for detecting parasites and other pathogens has improved dramatically since 2013. This PCR (polymerase chain reaction) test looks for the genetic fingerprint of a wide range of pathogens. This is a far more sensitive test than the old fashioned technique of looking through a microscope.
Faecal Occult Blood
Bowel (or colorectal) cancer causes the second highest number of cancer deaths in New Zealand after lung cancer. However, around 90% of bowel cancer cases are cured if detected early. Screening for bowel cancer typically involves a faecal occult test which specifically detects hidden blood in stool by identifying human haemoglobin, indicating potential issues like colorectal polyps, inflammation, or cancer.
Coeliac Disease Screen
People with coeliac disease who eat gluten have higher than normal levels of tissue transglutaminase antibodies in their blood. These antibodies are produced by the immune system because it views gluten - the proteins found in wheat, rye and barley - as a threat. This gluten intolerance test is positive in about 98% of patients with coeliac disease who are on a gluten-containing diet.
Gut Inflammation
These tests are used to detect inflammation in the body, which may be caused by Inflammatory Bowel Disease (such as Crohn's or ulcerative colitis).
Nutrient Malabsorption
If the intestines can't absorb nutrients then they are eliminated from the body in the stool. This can happen when there's damage to the intestine, as well as the amount of time available where nutrients can be absorbed from food as it passes through the gut.
Pancreatic Function
Proteins, fats, and carbohydrates are broken down by stomach acids, enzymes produced by the pancreas, and bile from the liver. This process also releases micronutrients. This blood test measures the levels of enzymes produced by the pancreas.
Liver Function
Your liver processes drugs and alcohol, filters toxic chemicals, stores vitamins and minerals, and makes bile, proteins and enzymes. This liver function test examines enzymes and other markers for evidence of damage to your liver cells or a blockage near your liver which can impair its function.
Electrolytes
This panel of tests is used to detect electrolyte imbalances that could be impacted by malabsorption and diarrhoea.
Full Blood Count
A full blood count provides a good snapshot of overall health and screens for a variety of disorders. It is used to assess immune function, infection, and anaemia, as well as nutritional status and exposure to toxic substances.
Test instructions
Take your form to one of our affiliated collection centres to have your sample taken - no need for an appointment.
Fast from all food and drink other than water for at least 8 hours, and no more than 12 hours prior to your test. Please note some collect centers require this test to be performed before 10am.
Do not commence a gluten free diet prior to the blood test.
Your test kit for your stool sample and all instructions are posted directly to you.
Ready. Set. Go!
for $359 NZD