GI-MAP Test for Parasites: How to Finally Get Answers About Gut Health
- Dr. Melissa Levy
- Sep 23
- 2 min read
If you’ve been dealing with digestive issues, bloating, fatigue, or unexplained symptoms, you may have wondered if parasites could be the cause. Standard stool tests often miss infections, leaving people frustrated without answers. That’s where the GI-MAP (Gastrointestinal Microbial Assay Plus) test comes in — one of the most advanced functional medicine stool tests available today.
Why Parasites Can Be a Hidden Problem
Parasites are more common than most people realize. You don’t have to travel overseas to pick one up — many people are exposed through food, water, pets, or contaminated environments. Common symptoms of parasite infections include:
Bloating, gas, and abdominal pain
Diarrhea or constipation
Unexplained fatigue or brain fog
Nutrient deficiencies (iron, B12, vitamin D)
Skin rashes or unexplained itching
Difficulty losing weight
Unfortunately, traditional stool testing often uses old-fashioned microscope methods, which are not sensitive enough to catch low-level or hidden infections.
What is the GI-MAP Test?
The GI-MAP stool test uses advanced PCR (DNA) technology to detect parasites, bacteria, viruses, and fungi with far greater accuracy than standard stool testing. This means it can pick up infections that are often missed and provide a much clearer picture of what’s happening in your gut.
With the GI-MAP, you’ll learn:
If you have parasites (such as Giardia, Cryptosporidium, Blastocystis hominis, or Entamoeba histolytica)
Whether you have an overgrowth of harmful bacteria or yeast
If beneficial gut bacteria are too low
Markers of leaky gut, inflammation, and immune activity in the gut
Why Choose the GI-MAP for Parasite Testing?
The GI-MAP is considered the gold standard in parasite and gut health testing for several reasons:
DNA-based accuracy: Detects even small amounts of pathogens.
Comprehensive results: Goes beyond parasites, showing the full gut environment.
Actionable insights: Helps your practitioner create a targeted plan to clear infections and restore balance.
At-home convenience: Simple stool sample kit mailed right to your door.
How the GI-MAP Test Works
Order your GI-MAP test kit.
Collect a small stool sample at home using the easy-to-follow instructions.
Ship it back in the prepaid package.
Results are ready in about 2–3 weeks and reviewed with your practitioner.
Who Should Consider Parasite Testing with GI-MAP?
This test may be right for you if you’re experiencing:
Ongoing digestive issues without clear answers
History of food poisoning or traveler’s diarrhea
Exposure to untreated water, pets, or livestock
Chronic fatigue, skin issues, or autoimmune concerns
Suspicion of parasites but negative results from standard stool tests