Functional Medicine
GI-MAP Stool Testing
DNA-based stool analysis that maps your gut microbiome, pathogens, and digestion — the foundation of systemic health.
What is GI-MAP Stool Testing?
The GI-MAP (GI Microbial Assay Plus) is a comprehensive, DNA-based stool test that uses quantitative PCR technology to identify and quantify bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi in the gastrointestinal tract. It also assesses digestion markers, immune function, and intestinal health indicators — giving a complete picture of gut function in a single test.
Why does this matter for pain and inflammation? Because the gut is the command center for systemic immune function. Imbalances in gut flora, low-grade pathogens, leaky gut, or poor digestion all drive inflammatory signaling that can show up far from the gut — as joint pain, fibromyalgia, fatigue, brain fog, and headaches.
At Functional Restoration Institute we use GI-MAP to identify the gut drivers contributing to chronic, inflammatory, or unexplained symptoms — and to build a targeted protocol that resolves them.
Benefits
Benefits of GI-MAP Stool Testing
DNA-level accuracy
Quantitative PCR detects organisms with precision standard culture-based testing simply cannot match.
Identifies hidden pathogens
Low-grade infections — H. pylori, parasites, opportunistic bacteria — are common drivers of chronic symptoms and routinely missed by standard care.
Assesses digestion and absorption
Markers like elastase, steatocrit, and beta-glucuronidase reveal whether you are actually digesting and absorbing what you eat.
Maps the microbiome
Quantifies beneficial, opportunistic, and pathogenic organisms so we can rebuild balance precisely instead of guessing.
Directly informs gut protocols
Findings shape every step of treatment — from antimicrobials to probiotics to enzyme support — based on what your gut actually needs.
Your Visit
What to Expect at FR Institute
The GI-MAP is a single-sample at-home stool test. Your provider ships you the kit with detailed collection instructions. The sample is shipped back to the lab in a prepaid mailer.
Results return in 2–3 weeks. We schedule a dedicated visit to review findings, explain what each marker means, and build the gut restoration protocol — typically a phased approach addressing pathogens first, then rebuilding the microbiome and gut lining.
- 1
Assessment
Hands-on testing and movement analysis to identify exactly what is driving your symptoms.
- 2
Treatment
Targeted application of GI-MAP Stool Testing, integrated with the broader plan you and your provider build together.
- 3
Recovery Plan
Clear next steps, take-home work, and re-assessment points so progress is measurable — not assumed.
Conditions
Conditions This Technique Helps
Chronic Pain
An integrated, biopsychosocial approach to pain that just won't quit.
Learn More
Fibromyalgia
Personalized care for widespread pain, fatigue, and the fog that comes with it.
Learn More
Arthritis
Move better, hurt less — comprehensive, personalized care for joint health.
Learn MoreFrequently Asked
Frequently Asked Questions
Schedule Your 20-Minute Complimentary Consultation
Find out if GI-MAP Stool Testing is the right approach for your goals. No pressure — just clarity on your next step.