The GI-MAP Test: What It Measures and Who It's For

The GI-MAP (Gastrointestinal Microbial Assay Plus) is a comprehensive stool test that uses qPCR DNA analysis to detect and quantify the organisms and markers in your gut — pathogens, commensal bacteria, opportunists, and key digestive and immune markers.

Why qPCR matters

qPCR (quantitative polymerase chain reaction) detects organisms by their DNA, which makes the GI-MAP both sensitive and quantitative. It's run by Diagnostic Solutions Laboratory. For a fuller walkthrough of the methodology and how at-home collection works in both the US and Canada, I wrote a complete guide for US Insider, and The Science Times covered how comprehensive stool analysis reveals the full gut-health picture.

What the report covers

• Pathogens — bacteria, parasites, and viruses associated with gut infections
• Commensals & opportunists — the balance of your normal flora
• Digestion — markers like pancreatic elastase
• Inflammation & immune response — calprotectin and secretory IgA

Who it's for

People with ongoing digestive symptoms, anyone whose hormonal or skin issues might trace back to the gut, and those who simply want a detailed baseline. As always: the GI-MAP gives you data to act on with your provider, not a diagnosis on its own.

Ready to test? The GI-MAP is available through our family properties for the US and Canada.