What is the purpose of this test?
The Comprehensive Stool Analysis (CDSA) is designed to evaluate the health of your digestive system by examining a stool sample for important markers of digestion, absorption, inflammation, and microbial balance. This non-invasive test provides detailed insights into how well your body processes food and absorbs nutrients, while identifying potential imbalances in beneficial and harmful bacteria or yeast. Understanding these factors can help identify the root cause of symptoms like bloating, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal discomfort.
This test is especially valuable for assessing inflammation in the digestive system and pinpointing issues such as "leaky gut" or imbalances caused by factors like low stomach acid, chronic maldigestion, and bacterial overgrowth. With the information gained from the CDSA, doctors can create personalized treatment plans to optimize digestive health, improve nutrient absorption, and address underlying issues contributing to poor gut function or overall health concerns.
The Comprehensive Stool Analysis (CDSA)—Doctor's Data Test Kit includes:
- Acetate, Butyrate, and Propionate: These short-chain fatty acids are key indicators of gut health, produced by beneficial bacteria to support colon health and immune function.
- Bacteriology Culture (Aerobic): Evaluates the balance of good and bad bacteria in the gut, essential for maintaining digestive health.
- Yeast Culture: Identifies the presence of yeast or fungal overgrowth that can disrupt gut balance.
- Fat Stain: Assesses fat absorption efficiency, which is critical for nutrient uptake.
- Elastase: Measures pancreatic enzyme production, vital for proper digestion.
- Carbohydrates: Examines carbohydrate digestion, highlighting possible malabsorption issues.
- Occult Blood: Detects hidden blood in stool, which can indicate inflammation or other conditions.
- Calprotectin, Lactoferrin, and Lysozyme: Key markers for identifying and monitoring inflammation in the gut.
- pH: Provides information on the acidity or alkalinity of the gut environment, which affects microbial balance.
- Secretory IgA (sIgA): Evaluates immune defense in the gut, crucial for protecting against harmful pathogens.
- Valerate: Another short-chain fatty acid that supports gut and overall health.
- GI Pathogens (6–11 targets): Screens for specific harmful microorganisms that can cause illness.
Who should get this test?
The Comprehensive Stool Analysis (CDSA)—Doctor's Data Test Kit is beneficial for:
- Individuals with ongoing digestive issues like bloating, diarrhea, or constipation.
- Those experiencing abdominal pain or unexplained gastrointestinal discomfort.
- People with suspected food sensitivities or malabsorption issues.
- Individuals with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
- Anyone looking to optimize their gut health for better overall wellness.
- Those recovering from antibiotic use or with concerns about microbial imbalances.
- Individuals with signs of inflammation in the digestive system.
Benefits of the Comprehensive Stool Analysis (CDSA) - Doctor's Data Test Kit:
- Evaluates Digestive Health: Provides a comprehensive picture of your digestive system's overall health.
- Identifies Bacterial Balance: Highlights imbalances between beneficial and harmful bacteria.
- Detects Yeast: Identifies yeast overgrowth that could affect gut function.
- Reveals Inflammation: Pinpoints signs of inflammation in your digestive tract.
- Diagnoses Digestive Problems: Helps uncover the causes of diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain.
- Personalized Treatment Plans: Assists doctors in tailoring treatment strategies to your specific needs.
- Non-Invasive: Uses a simple stool sample for testing, ensuring convenience.
- Improves Digestive Health: Aims to optimize digestion and nutrient absorption.
- Supports Overall Well-being: Enhances gut health, which can positively impact energy levels, immunity, and more.
This comprehensive test empowers you and your doctor to understand and address digestive concerns, promoting a healthier gut and better overall health.
Preparation:
No fasting is required. Ship to lab Monday-Thursday only. Please read all of the directions and the collection procedures prior to starting test. Please wait three days after completion of antifungal or antibiotic medications before starting this collection. Please refrain from taking digestive enzymes, laxatives (particularly mineral or castor oil), antacids, aspirin, and substances containing barium and/or bismuth for two days prior to and during the specimen collection. Refrain from taking probiotic supplements for two weeks prior to specimen collection. To properly assess fat absorption, be sure to consume normal amounts of dietary fat. Never discontinue prescription medications without first consulting your physician.
Test Results:
6-8 business days once the lab receives the specimen. May take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
