GI-MAP Instructions

The GI-MAP® (Microbial Assay Plus) is a comprehensive one-day stool test that you’re able to complete at home. Once you receive your test kit, make sure to thoroughly review all of the instructions outlined below. Please reach out to me if you have any questions at hello@briannacookwellness.com.

Supplements & Medication Guidance

TWO WEEKS BEFORE COLLECTION, STOP TAKING:

  • Antibiotics

  • NSAIDs (ex: Advil, Motrin, Aleve, Aspirin)

  • Bismuth (eg: in Pepto Bismol)

  • Any kind of eradication agent (prescriptive or natural)

  • Spore- or soil-based probiotics

THREE DAYS BEFORE COLLECTION, STOP TAKING:

  • All other gut-specific supplements, such as:

    • Functional digestive supports

    • Gut healing formulas

    • Regular probiotics

PRESCRIPTION MEDICATIONS

  • If you have taken a course of antibiotics, wait two weeks before doing the test.

  • If you’ve been on a steroid agent (ex: prednisone), wait two weeks before doing the test.

  • Continue taking anything besides those mentioned.

  • Please check with your health care provider before stopping any prescribed medications.

CYCLING WOMEN

  • Do not collect your sample while menstruating as blood is a contaminant that will void the test.

What to Eat Before the Test

  • For the most part, continue your normal routine. I recommend the following two adjustments to determine fat digestion and gluten reactivity:

    • Consume 70-100 grams of fat each day for 3 days prior to collection. This would be 2-3 tablespoons of added fat or oil to each meal in the day. For example, a salad with ½ an avocado, a small handful of nuts, and a salad dressing with at least 1 tablespoon of pil would be 2-3 tablespoons of added fat for that day.

    • Have at least 3 servings of bread, pasta, or other gluten-containing grains during the week before collection (unless you have already determined a sensitivity/reactivity to gluten, and it’s not a part of your diet.)

Sample Collection

  • Prepare your kit. Write your name, DOB, and collection date on the specimen vial label, and fill out the Test Requisition Form in its entirety. Be sure to include the date of collection. Reminder: the test has already been paid for, so no payment information is needed.

  • Collect your sample. Urinate first to avoid contaminating the sample, and with gloved hands, pass stool into the collection tray.

  • Transfer stool. Using the spoon attached to the cap of the vial, spoon stool from at least 4 different areas of the sample into the vial. Fill the vial to just over the red fill line. Then carefully mix stool and fluid with the spoon. Replace the cap tightly and shake vial vigorously for 30 seconds.

  • Package. Place the vial into the specimen bag along with absorbent pad, and seal the bag. Place the specimen bag and test requisition form into the test kit box.

Pack & Ship

  • Place in mailer. Fill in your name and address on the shipping label attached to the outside of the provided FedEx mailer. Place kit box in the bag, and seal the self-sticking pouch.

  • Schedule pickup. Call FedEx to schedule a pick-up. Dial 1-800-238-5355. When the automated greeting begins say “Schedule a pickup” and follow the instructions.

  • Or drop-off at any FedEx location. Avoid drop-boxes.

  • Try to mail your sample on the same day as collection. If you cannot mail your sample on the same day as collection, you may put your test kit box in the refrigerator. Samples must be mailed within three days of collection.