Stool Testing Under the Influence

A very common question we are asked as it relates to functional medicine testing is how medications and supplements affect results. Although we can’t always know the influences, based on physiology and some literature we can make educated guesses. Genova never recommends that any patient discontinue medically necessary medications for the purposes of testing – that decision is up to the ordering clinician. But it might be helpful to discuss what to expect when interpreting results. In today’s episode, we talk about ways medications and supplements can influence results of the GI Effects Stool Profile and how some can interfere with our ability to perform testing. Today on The Lab Report: 3:00 Collection pack instructions and the disclaimer 5:00 Interferents vs. influencers 7:10 Laxatives 10:40 Digestive enzymes 11:50 Better Know a Biomarker 16:40 Antimicrobial meds and supplements 19:20 Proton pump inhibitors and antacids 20:35 Aspirin, NSAID’s, and steroids   22:00 Question of the Day? Where can people access this information for themselves? Additional Resources: GI Effects Stool Profile Test Prep Page Subscribe, Rate, & Review The Lab Report Thanks for tuning in to this week’s episode of The Lab Report, presented by Genova Diagnostics, with your hosts Michael Chapman and Patti Devers. If you enjoyed this episode, please hit the subscribe button and give us a rating or leave a review. Don’t forget to visit our website, like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Email Patti and Michael with your most interesting and pressing questions on functional medicine: [email protected]. And, be sure to share your favorite Lab Report episodes with your friends and colleagues on social media to help others learn more about Genova and all things related to functional medicine and specialty lab testing. Disclaimer: The content and information shared in The Lab Report is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. The views and opinions expressed in The Lab Report represent the opinions and views of Michael Chapman and Patti Devers and their guests.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.