GI-MAP Testing: Your Complete Guide

June 27, 2026

What Does a GI-MAP Test Show? A Complete Guide to Understanding GI-MAP Testing

At Evenbetternow, GI-MAP testing has quickly become one of our most popular functional health testing options - and for good reason.

One of the core principles we emphasize with our clients is that it all starts in the gut. No matter how carefully you choose your supplements or how healthy your diet may be, your body must first be able to properly digest, absorb, and utilize the nutrients you're providing it.

Healthy gut function plays a critical role in:

Nutrient and mineral absorption
Digestive efficiency
Immune system function
Inflammation regulation
Energy production
Overall wellness

When the gut is not functioning optimally, it can create ripple effects throughout the entire body. Digestive symptoms may develop, but so can issues that seem unrelated to digestion, including fatigue, skin concerns, food sensitivities, immune challenges, and more.

Because of this, many of our clients choose GI-MAP testing as a way to gain deeper insight into what may be happening within their digestive system and to help identify potential areas that deserve further attention.

If you've been struggling with digestive symptoms, food sensitivities, bloating, fatigue, skin issues, or other unexplained health concerns, you've probably heard about GI-MAP testing.

Many people wonder:

What exactly does a GI-MAP test measure?
How is it different from a standard stool test?
Can it help identify the root cause of chronic symptoms?

In this article, we'll explain what the GI-MAP test looks for, how it works, and why many functional and integrative health practitioners use it as a valuable tool for evaluating gut health.

What Is a GI-MAP Test?

GI-MAP stands for Gastrointestinal Microbial Assay Plus. It is an advanced stool analysis developed by Diagnostic Solutions Laboratory that uses quantitative PCR (qPCR) technology to identify and measure DNA from microorganisms present in the digestive tract.

Unlike many conventional stool tests, GI-MAP evaluates a broad range of organisms and markers related to:

Gut bacteria
Parasites
Yeast and fungi
Viruses
Digestive function
Inflammation
Immune activity
Intestinal permeability (when Zonulin is included)

The goal is to provide a more complete picture of what may be occurring within the gastrointestinal system.

What Does the GI-MAP Measure?

1. Beneficial and Opportunistic Bacteria

The gut contains trillions of microorganisms that help support digestion, nutrient absorption, immune function, and overall health.

The GI-MAP measures numerous bacterial species and helps identify imbalances that may contribute to digestive symptoms or other health concerns.

Examples include:

Citrobacter species
Klebsiella species
Morganella species
Pseudomonas species
Streptococcus species

When certain opportunistic bacteria become elevated, they may contribute to symptoms such as gas, bloating, abdominal discomfort, or irregular bowel habits.

2. Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori)

The GI-MAP can identify H. pylori, a bacterium that may affect stomach health.

Elevated levels may be associated with:

Heartburn
Reflux
Nausea
Stomach discomfort
Impaired digestion

The test also evaluates several virulence factors that may provide additional information about the organism's potential impact.

3. Parasites

The GI-MAP screens for a variety of common intestinal parasites.

Examples include:

Giardia
Blastocystis hominis
Entamoeba species
Cryptosporidium

Because parasites can be difficult to detect through routine testing, advanced DNA-based testing may identify organisms that would otherwise go unnoticed.

4. Yeast and Fungi

The GI-MAP evaluates several fungal organisms, including Candida species.

Yeast overgrowth may be associated with symptoms such as:

Gas and bloating
Sugar cravings
Digestive discomfort
Recurring fungal issues

5. Viruses

The test also evaluates certain viruses that may contribute to microbial burden within the digestive tract.

While the presence of a virus does not necessarily indicate active disease, it may provide useful information when evaluating overall gut health.

Digestive Function Markers

The GI-MAP includes markers that help evaluate how well the digestive system is functioning.

Pancreatic Elastase-1

This marker provides information about pancreatic enzyme production and digestive capacity.

Fecal Fat

Elevated levels may suggest issues with fat digestion and absorption.

Inflammation Markers

Chronic inflammation within the gastrointestinal tract may contribute to a variety of digestive symptoms.

Calprotectin

Calprotectin is commonly used to evaluate inflammatory activity within the intestines.

Occult Blood

This marker screens for hidden blood within the stool sample.

Immune Function Markers

Secretory IgA (sIgA)

Secretory IgA is an important component of the gut's immune defense system.

Both elevated and low levels may provide useful information about immune activity within the digestive tract.

What Is Zonulin?

Many clients choose the GI-MAP with Zonulin option.

Zonulin is a protein involved in regulating the tight junctions between cells lining the intestinal wall.

Elevated Zonulin levels may suggest increased intestinal permeability, often referred to as "leaky gut."

Because intestinal permeability is a common area of interest for individuals with digestive symptoms, food sensitivities, autoimmune concerns, and chronic inflammation, many clients find this additional marker valuable.

Who Might Benefit from GI-MAP Testing?

GI-MAP testing is commonly considered by individuals experiencing:

Bloating
Gas
Constipation
Diarrhea
IBS-type symptoms
Food sensitivities
Chronic fatigue
Skin concerns
Autoimmune conditions
Unexplained digestive complaints

Individuals who are not responding as expected to supplements, dietary changes, or wellness protocols may also find GI-MAP testing helpful, as underlying gut imbalances can sometimes interfere with nutrient absorption, mineral utilization, and overall progress.

While GI-MAP testing is not intended to diagnose disease, it may provide valuable information that helps guide further investigation and personalized wellness strategies.

What Happens After You Receive Your Results?

Receiving results is only the first step.

At Evenbetternow, we offer several options to help clients better understand their findings:

These services can help clients better understand the significance of their findings and identify potential next steps.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does GI-MAP testing take?

Results are typically available approximately 7-10 business days after the laboratory receives your sample.

Should I stop probiotics before testing?

Many practitioners recommend discontinuing probiotics for approximately two weeks prior to testing when the goal is to obtain baseline results.

Should I stop antimicrobial supplements before testing?

For the most accurate baseline assessment, antimicrobial supplements and antifungal products should be stopped for 6–8 weeks (1.5–2 months) before collecting your test sample. Testing sooner may affect the microbial findings and may not accurately reflect your baseline gut environment.

Is the GI-MAP test worth it?

Many clients appreciate the detailed information the test provides regarding microbial balance, digestive function, inflammation, immune activity, and intestinal permeability.

📄View a list of GI-MAP Test Preparation Do's and Don'ts

Ready to Learn More?

If you're interested in learning more about GI-MAP testing, you can explore our available options, including the GI-MAP, GI-MAP with Zonulin, and GI-MAP Interpretation & Protocol services.

Understanding what is happening inside the gut can often be an important step toward making informed decisions about your health and wellness journey. After all, a healthy gut provides the foundation upon which many other aspects of health are built.

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