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Hippocrates onces said that ‘death begins in the colon’, a rather dramatic statement but one that has elements of truth. Maintaining a healthy digestive tract is vital to maintain optimal health. Western diets and lifestyles have led us to a point where chronic inflammation and disease originating in the digestive tract are a common occurrence. Abdominal symptoms such as bloating, cramps, gas and diarrhoea, are frequently experienced and have brought about the need for modern tests that are exact and reliable. The comprehensive parasitology test is a convenient and non-invasive test that allows a thorough evaluation of bacteria (including friendly and non pathogenic as well as pathogenic bacteria), yeasts and parasites, all of which can be found in the digestive tract and cause a very wide range of symptoms.
Parasites are organisms that live within the intestinal tract, growing and feeding from the nutrients you put into your body. Parasites are much more common in the UK than many realise and are transmitted by insects, pets, uncooked meat, water and in some cases person to person. The comprehensive parasitology will look for and identify any and all parasites. An example of a parasite is Entamoeba Histolytica where transmission is through unsanitary conditions, pets and human contact. It is prevalent throughout the world and can cause symptoms that mimic ulcerative colitis while others may have milder, but no less disruptive symptoms, of diarrhoea, colicky abdominal pain and nausea.
Yeast can also be identified through the comprehensive parasitology test. All forms of yeast are identified and if cultured are grown and tested for sensitivities to various treatments. There are many types of yeast found in the digestive tract; one of the more recognisable ones is Candida Albican. Yeast is found in everyone’s gut but must be kept under control by friendly bacteria and healthy diets. Modern lifestyles are a major contributing factor in the cause of yeast overgrowths. Alcohol, antibiotics, sugar and stress are all conditions that allow yeast to grow and cause problems for the host. Symptoms are so wide ranging that the condition is very often misdiagnosed. Symptoms include brain fog, depression, headaches, muscle and joint aches, digestive disturbances, fatigue, thrush, cystitis, and acne.
There are three types of bacteria found in the digestive tract: friendly bacteria (healthy/beneficial bacteria), ‘non-beneficial’, also known as non-pathogenic or normal commensal bacteria, and lastly pathogenic bacteria. All of these bacteria’s are assessed in the comprehensive parasitology test. The test will identify three strains of beneficial bacteria including lactobacillus, bifidobacter and E. Coli. When analysing the non-beneficial flora and pathogenic bacteria all strains found will be identified; examples of bacteria commonly found include Gamma Strep, Beta Strep, Klebsiella, and Bacillus species. Ensuring a healthy balance between friendly and commensal bacteria is essential to maintaining health. An imbalance cannot only lead to yeast and parasite problems but many other health conditions. Additionally it is vital to identify and remove any ‘non-beneficial’ or pathogenic bacteria, as these will cause many digestive complaints including nausea, diarrhoea, constipation, stomach cramps and indigestion.
Technical information:
The comprehensive parasitology assesses bacteriology, mycology, parasitology, and infectious pathogens. A sensitivity panel for cultured yeast and pathogenic flora is also provided.
Method: Microbiology, High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), Enzyme Immuno Assay (EIA)
Sample requirements: 3 stool samples taken over 2 days.
Patient requirements: Allow a minimum of three days between anti-fungal/ antibiotic medication, and performing the test. No digestive enzymes, vitamin C, antacids and aspirin recommended during this test.
Analytes measured: Beneficial flora (Bifidobacter, E.Coli, Lactobacillus), non-pathogenic bacteria flora, pathogenic flora, Mycology, Ova, Parasites, Infectious EIA Pathogens: (Giardia lamblia, Crytospordium), EIA Parasitology: (Campylobacter, Enterohemorrahgic E Coli) Cytotoxin Anti-Microbial Sensitivities: (Prescriptive: Augmentin, Cefpodoxime, Cefuorxime, Ciprofloxacin, Tetracycline, Trimeth-Sulfa), (Natural: Berberine, Black Walnut, Caprylic Acid, Goldenseal, Oregano, Uva Ursi, Mastic Gum) Yeast: (Prescriptive: Fluconazole, Nystatin, Ketoconazole), (Natural: Berberine, Caprylic acid, Uva Ursi, Goldenseal, Tanabit, Oregano).
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