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GI MAP Prep
and Directions

 The GI MAP stool test is a powerful tool we use to analyze your microbiome, digestive function and inflammation in the gut. All health can be said to begin in the gut. When digestion is dysfunctional, all kinds of health issues arise from skin conditions to autoimmune to joint pain, malnourishment, bloating and gas. With this incredible stool analysis, we can gain a clear picture of what's going on in your gut and how to balance it. Please read these detailed instructions carefully before proceeding: The instructions for collection are included in the kit as well.

Step 1 – Patient Preparation SUPPLEMENTS & MEDICATIONS:

  • Continue to take any required medications and supplements unless specified otherwise.

  • Plan to take the GI MAP stool test when you are NOT taking antibiotics. If you are currently on a course of antibiotics, finish that, wait two (2) weeks and then complete the stool test.

2 Weeks Prior Stop Taking:

  • All NSAIDS for two (2) weeks prior to stool collection. (Tylenol, Advil)

2-3 Days Prior Stop Taking:

  • Avoid taking aspirin for 2 days prior to starting your sample collection.

Other Considerations:

  • For women: do not collect your sample while menstruating as blood is a contaminant that will void the test.

  • You can drink Senna tea (Smooth Move) or take oral Dulcolax or Fleet for help with bowel movements if needed.

Step 2- Microbiome Stool Test 

  • It is best to collect stool during the weekend and then have Purolator courier pick it up on Monday or Tuesday. That ensures the sample arrives to the lab without wait time. The instructions on how to arrange courier pick up will be in the kit.

  • Before collection, make sure to read the collection instructions included in the kit.

  • Write your name and date of birth on the sample vial.

  • If possible void urine prior to collecting the stool sample. Collect stool by passing stool onto the collection tray. You may find it easier to lay strips of toilet paper on top of the water in the toilet bowl and then place the collection tray on top.

  • Using the spoon attached to the cap of the specimen vial, spoon stool from different areas of the sample into the specimen vial. Add sample to the “Fill Line” indicated on the vial label. Failure to add sufficient sample may result in the laboratory from performing requested testing. DO NOT DISCARD THE PINK LIQUID IN THE SPECIMEN VIAL.

  • Carefully mix stool and pink fluid with the spoon. Replace cap tightly and shake vial vigorously for 30 seconds.

  • Place the filled sample vial into specimen bag along with absorbent pad. Seal the bag. Place the specimen bag with the sample vial into the kit box.

  • Fill out the Test Request Form completely. BE sure to write the date of sample collection in the Patient section of the form. The payment is made to the clinic prior to receiving the test kit. Spectrum Wellness will pay the testing lab directly. Place Test Request Form into the document holder of the specimen bag. Place the specimen bag with the collected sample and the completed test request form in the white cardboard box. If the sample cannot be shipped the sample day of collection, refrigerate. 

Step 3- Shipping

  •  Next follow the directions to ship the test kit to the lab.

  • You will find a prepaid Purolator sticker inside the kit to mail to mail the specimen to the lab.

  • Ship Monday or Tuesday for best results. Don't mail test kit on a Saturday. DO NOT SHIP OVER HOLIDAYS - Labs close for holidays. Check with me on lab schedules if you are doing a test around a holiday.

  • You should also be able to drop off as well if you choose and those instructions will be in the kit.

  • Keep a record of the shipping number and email it to the clinic so that we can track your test results.

 

Note- Please refer to test kit and if any variation exists between the information here and your test kit, follow your test kit instructions. Additional information is provided in the test kits regarding preparation, collection and medications, circumstances, medical conditions, supplements, etc. that may affect the results of the test. Test results are generally available 7-10  business days after lab testing and may need additional days to review prior to your follow up to go over it.

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