GI-MAP Stool Testing: Options, Preparation & Results

Explore GI-MAP stool testing options, learn how to prepare for your test, and choose the level of interpretation and support that fits your needs. Evenbetternow offers the standard GI-MAP, GI-MAP + Zonulin, professional interpretation, and combined HTMA + GI-MAP options.

Explore GI-MAP testing options

What Is GI-MAP Stool Testing?

Your gut plays an important role in digestion, nutrient absorption, immune function, and overall health.[4,5] GI-MAP is a DNA-based stool analysis that uses quantitative PCR (qPCR) technology to evaluate selected microorganisms alongside digestive, inflammatory, and immune markers.[1]

The test provides information about the gastrointestinal environment. If you are new to functional gut testing, our complete guide to GI-MAP testing explains what the test measures and what to expect from your report.

Compare GI-MAP Testing Options

Choose testing alone, include the additional Zonulin marker, or select professional support for understanding your results.

Standard GI-MAP Test

The standard GI-MAP evaluates microorganisms in the gastrointestinal tract along with key digestive, immune, and inflammatory markers using qPCR technology.[1]

You can order the laboratory test on its own or add a personalized written Interpretation & Protocol Report and an optional follow-up consultation.

Consider this option if: You want GI-MAP testing without the additional Zonulin marker.

Explore the standard GI-MAP test

GI-MAP + Zonulin

GI-MAP + Zonulin includes the complete GI-MAP test plus an additional stool Zonulin marker. Diagnostic Solutions Laboratory offers this add-on for additional information related to intestinal permeability.[2]

Choose testing alone or add a personalized written Interpretation & Protocol Report and follow-up consultation.

Consider this option if: You want the standard GI-MAP panel with the additional Zonulin marker.

Explore GI-MAP + Zonulin

GI-MAP Interpretation & Protocol Report

For professional help understanding your laboratory findings, choose a personalized written Interpretation & Protocol Report. It includes a detailed review of your findings and individualized dietary, supplement, and lifestyle recommendations based on your results and intake information.

You can add this service when purchasing your test or order it separately if you already have completed GI-MAP results from Diagnostic Solutions Laboratory.

Consider this option if: You want guidance with interpreting your results and considering possible next steps.

Explore GI-MAP interpretation options

HTMA + GI-MAP Bundle

This bundle combines a Profile 1 Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis (HTMA) with either the standard GI-MAP or GI-MAP + Zonulin. The current package includes a one-hour private consultation and a combined written follow-up summary covering both sets of results.

The tests provide separate laboratory findings, with professional guidance for reviewing the results together.

Consider this option if: You want to explore mineral patterns and gastrointestinal markers with professional interpretation support.

Explore the HTMA + GI-MAP bundle

How the GI-MAP Testing Process Works

1. Choose your test. Select the standard GI-MAP or GI-MAP + Zonulin, then choose any interpretation or consultation support you would like.
2. Receive your collection kit. After your order is processed, your kit is shipped to you with the materials and instructions for collecting a stool sample at home.
3. Prepare and collect your sample. Review the preparation guidance and follow the collection instructions included with your kit.
4. Return your sample. Package it according to the kit instructions and send it to Diagnostic Solutions Laboratory for analysis.
5. Your sample is analyzed. The laboratory uses qPCR to detect and quantify selected microorganisms. The panel also includes gastrointestinal health markers depending on the test ordered.[1]
6. Receive your results. Results are generally available approximately two weeks after the laboratory receives your sample. Once Evenbetternow receives your completed report, it is made available through your secure Practice Better client portal.
7. Access any support you selected. If your order includes an Interpretation & Protocol Report or consultation, your practitioner reviews your findings and provides the guidance included with that service.

Preparing for Your GI-MAP Test

Preparation depends on the purpose of your testing and the medications, supplements, probiotics, or antimicrobial products you currently use. Review the kit instructions and discuss preparation with your healthcare provider before collecting your sample.

What to Review Before Collection

• Antibiotics: For baseline testing, our preparation guide recommends waiting approximately 30–60 days after completing antibiotics to allow time for the gastrointestinal microbiome to stabilize.
• Probiotics: For baseline testing, probiotics are often discontinued approximately two weeks before sample collection. Confirm the guidance appropriate to your testing goal with your provider.
• Antimicrobial and antifungal supplements: Products such as oregano oil and berberine may influence findings. Discuss whether a washout period is appropriate for baseline testing.
• PPIs and antacids: These may affect certain markers. Discuss any changes to prescription medications with your prescribing healthcare provider.
• Digestive enzymes and other digestive support: Recommendations may differ depending on whether testing evaluates your baseline or your current regimen.

Never discontinue or change a prescription medication without first consulting the healthcare professional who prescribed it.

Read the complete GI-MAP preparation do’s and don’ts

If you are unsure how the recommendations apply to your situation, contact us before collecting your sample for help finding the appropriate guidance.

Understanding Your GI-MAP Results

Your laboratory report includes findings and reference ranges for the microorganisms and gastrointestinal markers evaluated in your sample. Depending on the testing option selected, it may include pathogens, H. pylori, commensal and opportunistic organisms, digestive function, intestinal inflammation, and immune activity. GI-MAP + Zonulin includes the additional Zonulin marker.[1,2]

If you would like help reviewing these findings, our personalized Interpretation & Protocol Report provides a detailed review and recommendations based on your results and health information. You can also submit an existing GI-MAP report from Diagnostic Solutions Laboratory without purchasing another test through Evenbetternow.

Get help interpreting your GI-MAP results

Prefer to discuss your findings and ask questions directly? Explore consultation options.

GI-MAP Educational Resources

Use these resources to learn more about what different tests measure and explore questions about digestive health.

• GI-MAP Testing: Your Complete Guide explains how testing works and what it measures.
• HTMA vs. GI-MAP: Which Functional Test Should You Start With? compares the information provided by each test.
• Why Your HTMA Results Might Be Missing Part of the Picture explores why mineral analysis does not directly evaluate the gastrointestinal environment.
• 5 Signs Your Digestive Symptoms May Not Be Normal discusses symptoms that may warrant a closer look.
• Could SIBO Be Behind Your Bloating, Brain Fog & More? explains SIBO and how its testing differs from GI-MAP.

GI-MAP Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to receive GI-MAP results?

Results are generally available approximately two weeks after Diagnostic Solutions Laboratory receives your sample. Once Evenbetternow receives the completed report, your results are made available through your secure Practice Better client portal.

What is the difference between GI-MAP and GI-MAP + Zonulin?

Both include the GI-MAP stool analysis. GI-MAP + Zonulin adds a stool Zonulin marker for additional information related to intestinal permeability.[2]

Do I need to purchase interpretation with my test?

No. You can purchase testing alone and receive your laboratory report. A personalized Interpretation & Protocol Report and consultation support are optional.

Can you interpret a GI-MAP test completed elsewhere?

Yes. If you already have completed GI-MAP results from Diagnostic Solutions Laboratory, you can purchase our interpretation service separately and submit your existing report for review. You do not need to repeat the test simply to have those results reviewed.

Should I stop probiotics, antibiotics, or antimicrobial supplements before testing?

Preparation depends on your testing goal and the products you use. Review our GI-MAP preparation guide and confirm your instructions with your healthcare provider. Never change or discontinue a prescription medication without consulting its prescriber.

How do I collect my GI-MAP sample?

GI-MAP uses an at-home stool sample. Your kit includes collection materials and instructions. After collection, package the sample as instructed and return it to Diagnostic Solutions Laboratory.

Where will I receive my results?

Your completed laboratory report is made available through your secure Practice Better client portal after Evenbetternow receives it. Any interpretation or support materials are provided according to the service selected.

Does GI-MAP test for food sensitivities?

No. GI-MAP evaluates microorganisms and gastrointestinal markers. It is not a food-sensitivity test and does not identify specific foods to which you may be reactive.

Can I order GI-MAP internationally?

Availability and shipping requirements vary by country. If you are outside the United States, contact Evenbetternow before ordering to confirm current availability, shipping costs, and laboratory requirements for your location.

Are there state restrictions on testing?

Some laboratory testing may be subject to state-specific restrictions. Contact us before ordering if you have questions about availability in your state.

What if I am unsure which option to choose?

Consider whether you want the standard GI-MAP or the additional Zonulin marker, and how much interpretation support you would like. Explore the educational resources above or contact us for help understanding the available options.

Choose Your GI-MAP Test or Interpretation Support

Choose the testing and support option that fits what you are looking for, from laboratory testing alone to written interpretation and consultation support.

• Browse GI-MAP testing options
• Get interpretation for existing GI-MAP results
• Contact Evenbetternow with questions

Sources & References

1. Diagnostic Solutions Laboratory. GI-MAP Interpretive Guide. Reference for qPCR methodology, microorganisms, and gastrointestinal markers.
2. Diagnostic Solutions Laboratory. GI-MAP White Paper. Reference for methodology and the optional fecal Zonulin marker.
3. Diagnostic Solutions Laboratory. Supplementary laboratory information.
4. Yoo BB, Mazmanian SK. “The Enteric Network: Interactions between the Immune and Nervous Systems of the Gut.” Article via PubMed Central.
5. Brestoff JR, Artis D. “Commensal Bacteria at the Interface of Host Metabolism and the Immune System.” Nature Immunology. Article via PubMed.