Understanding the GI-MAP Test: A Window Into Your Gut Health
When it comes to whole-body wellness, few systems are more central than your gut. The GI-MAP test offers a groundbreaking way to understand what’s really going on inside your digestive system—by analyzing your microbiome with precision and care. This isn’t your average stool test. It’s a deep-dive into your body's inner ecosystem, revealing insights that can guide powerful, personalized healing.
GI-MAP Commensal Bacteria
Why Gut Health Matters So Much
Your gut is home to more than 100 trillion microbes—more than the number of cells in your entire body. This microbiome plays a key role in far more than digestion. It affects your immunity, mood, metabolism, energy levels, and even your brain health. When things are out of balance, you might experience chronic issues like bloating, fatigue, food sensitivities, or more complex conditions like IBS, autoimmune disorders, and mood disorders.
What Is the GI-MAP Test?
The GI-MAP Test (Gut Microbiome Analytics and Mapping) is a DNA-based stool test that identifies bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites in your gut. Unlike conventional tests, it uses qPCR technology to detect the DNA of both good and harmful organisms—giving a clearer picture of your gut health and its potential impact on your overall well-being.
Gut Microbiome Ecosystem
Benefits of Microbiome Mapping
1. Pinpoints Pathogens and Imbalances
The GI-MAP test identifies overgrowths, infections, or harmful bacteria and parasites that could be disrupting your health.
2. Reveals Inflammation and Digestive Markers
It doesn’t just look at microbes—it also checks for inflammation, digestive enzyme production, and immune function markers.
3. Supports Root-Cause Healing
By using the GI-MAP test results, we can stop guessing and start creating personalized treatment plans that address the root—not just the symptoms.
4. Non-Invasive and Easy to Do at Home
Collect your sample in the comfort of your home and send it in. It’s discreet, simple, and doesn't require a trip to the clinic.
5. Tailored Interventions for You
Based on your results, we’ll design a protocol just for you—often including dietary changes, nutraceuticals, herbal support, vagal nerve stimulation, and other lifestyle modifications.
6. Helpful for a Wide Range of Conditions
Whether you’re dealing with IBS, IBD, SIBO, food sensitivities, autoimmune issues, or mental health concerns—this test helps make sense of the puzzle.
GI-MAP Intestinal Health Markers
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions About the GI-MAP Test.
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The GI-MAP is used to evaluate the health of your gut microbiome and detect imbalances, pathogens, and inflammation contributing to health issues.
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Unlike traditional tests, GI-MAP uses DNA technology (qPCR) to identify microorganisms with high accuracy—even at low levels.
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Not at all. It’s a simple at-home test that requires a single stool sample and clear instructions for mailing it in. I’ve done it myself!
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Results typically arrive within 2–3 weeks, after which we’ll schedule a consult to review your results and discuss next steps.
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Yes! Imbalances in the gut can influence brain chemistry and mood. The GI-MAP can uncover contributing factors to anxiety, depression, and more.
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Anyone with chronic digestive issues, autoimmune symptoms, fatigue, food sensitivities, or mental health concerns may benefit from a microbiome mapping test.
Key Takeaways
The GI-MAP test is a powerful, DNA-based tool for analyzing gut health.
It identifies pathogens, inflammation, and imbalances in the microbiome.
Results inform a personalized plan to help you heal your nervous system, restore digestion, and support overall wellness.
The test is simple, non-invasive, and ideal for anyone seeking root-cause answers.
Gut health impacts far more than digestion—it’s connected to immunity, mood, metabolism, and longevity.
About Leopold Chiropractic
Leopold Chiropractic is a holistic clinic in Oakland, California, founded by Dr. Peter Leopold. The practice specializes in root-cause healing through chiropractic care, functional neurology, and functional medicine. Services include corrective exercise, neuroplasticity-based therapies, and personalized nutritional counseling, all aimed at restoring nervous system balance and long-term wellness. Dr. Leopold offers both in-person and intensive programs for individuals seeking comprehensive, integrative care.
Dr. Peter Leopold is a chiropractor and board-certified functional neurologist who specializes in neuroplasticity, nutritional counseling, and root-cause healing. He’s trained in the Melillo Method™ and is currently pursuing a Master’s in Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine.
