{"title":"Candida Testing","description":"\u003cp\u003eAfter analyzing the research for several years, I am convinced that past antibiotic use is itself diagnostic for systemic fungal candida. For those who want to confirm this with testing, I recommend combining 2 or 3 tests, along with your health history, current signs and symptoms, and the results of any anti-candida diets that you may have followed to arrive at the best diagnostic picture. - Dr. Jeff.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 0.83em;\"\u003eEach test includes a 15 min phone consultation with Dr. Jeff McCombs to interpret the results of your test ($105 value).\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"expanded-gi-health-panel-by-diagnostechs-stool-saliva","title":"Expanded GI Health Panel™ by DiagnosTechs (stool \u0026 saliva)","description":"\u003cdiv id=\"PanelsTextContainer\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Diagnos-Techs™ Gastrointestinal (GI) Health Panels are non-invasive screens of the GI system and its function. They include 15-22 individual, yet related tests.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStool and saliva samples are submitted after convenient at-home collection. The GI Health Panels combine pathogen testing, inflammatory markers and other lab measures of possible disease or dysfunction for a comprehensive evaluation of GI health.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe GI-1 panel screens for:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e• \u003cstrong\u003eBacteria\u003c\/strong\u003e– to look for infectious organisms (including H. pylori) and to help evaluate balance of “good and bad” bacteria in the gut.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e• \u003cstrong\u003eFungi and yeast\u003c\/strong\u003e– to identify overgrowth of yeast (including \u003cem\u003eCandida\u003c\/em\u003e) and fungi that may be associated with GI symptoms.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e• \u003cstrong\u003eParasites\u003c\/strong\u003e– with both microscopic evaluation of samples and identification of immune markers of infection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e• \u003cstrong\u003eAntibodies to gluten\u003c\/strong\u003e– to evaluate potential benefit of gluten-free diet.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e• \u003cstrong\u003eDigestive function markers\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e• \u003cstrong\u003eMarkers of intestinal inflammation\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e• \u003cstrong\u003eFecal occult blood\u003c\/strong\u003e– to look for GI bleeding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e• \u003cstrong\u003eTotal sIgA\u003c\/strong\u003e– to evaluate function of immune barrier in the GI tract.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe GI-2 panel contains all of the above GI-1 tests and additionally screens for:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e• \u003cstrong\u003eAntibodies to dairy, soy and egg proteins–\u003c\/strong\u003e to evaluate potential benefit from removing dairy, soy and\/or eggs from your diet\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e• Immune markers of infection from \u003cstrong\u003efour additional parasites.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe GI Health Panels may be helpful for determining the underlying cause of:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e• Chronic or vague abdominal pain or discomfort\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e• Gas or bloating\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e• Constipation\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e• Diarrhea or loose stools\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e• Abdominal cramping\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e• Heartburn or GERD\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMode of Transmission and Risk Factors\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe predominant method of transmission of parasites is the fecal–oral route. This can occur through hand contact with infected individuals or via contaminated water, soil or food. Many parasites are highly transmissible within a household environment. All family members should be tested if one member is positive for a GI infection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePeople with suppressed immunity are at risk for longer and more serious GI infections. Individuals receiving chemotherapy for cancer are very susceptible to parasitic infections. Medications commonly used for autoimmune conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, can also lead to a higher risk of infections. Frequent or excessive antibiotic use can render the GI tract more susceptible to chronic overgrowth of harmful microorganisms.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eYou may benefit from a GI Health Panel if you:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e• Frequently travel within the United States and\/or overseas\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e• Frequently eat outside the home\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e• Are exposed to feces (e.g., cat litter box)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e• Prepare or handle food\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e• Work in a hospital or other healthcare setting\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e• Go hiking or camping\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e• Live in a dormitory\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e• Work with young children or have a child who attends daycare\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e• Have a history of frequent or broad-spectrum antibiotic use\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"CandidaPlan","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55860752285999,"sku":"GIHEALTH1","price":495.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0977\/8334\/9551\/files\/imgres__09582.1435264905.1280.1280.png?v=1774594230"},{"product_id":"organic-acids-test-by-great-plains-labs-urine","title":"Organic Acids Test by Great Plains Labs (urine)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large;\"\u003eThe Organic Acids Test (OAT) provides an accurate evaluation of intestinal yeast and bacteria. Abnormally high levels of these microorganisms can cause or worsen behavior disorders, hyperactivity, movement disorders, fatigue and immune function. Many people with chronic illnesses and neurological disorders often excrete several abnormal organic acids. The cause of these high levels could include: oral antibiotic use, high sugar diets, immune deficiencies, and genetic factors.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large;\"\u003eIf abnormalities are detected using the OAT, treatments can include supplements, such as vitamins and antioxidants, or dietary modification. Upon treatment, patients and practitioners have reported significant improvement such as decreased fatigue, regular bowel function, increased energy and alertness, increased concentration, improved verbal skills, less hyperactivity, and decreased abdominal pain. The OAT is strongly recommended as the initial screening test.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp align=\"center\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: bold; font-size: x-large;\"\u003eU.S. Patent # 5,686,311 for specific OAT compounds\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large;\"\u003e Certain uses of the compounds arabinose, citramalic, tartaric, 3-oxoglutaric, carboxycitric, 3,4-dihydroxyphenylpropionic (DHPPA), and 3-(3-hydroxyphenyl)-3-hydroxypropionic (HPHPA) acids in their application to autism in the Organic Acids Test and Microbial Organic Acids Test are protected by USA patent 5,686,311 granted November 11, 1997.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp align=\"left\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large;\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.greatplainslaboratory.com\/home\/eng\/recommendations_chart.pdf\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e \u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 align=\"center\" style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large;\"\u003eNew Markers\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large;\"\u003eThe new and improved OAT has increased the number of tested compounds to 70 and two new ratios have been added. Descriptions of the new markers are listed below:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: bold; font-size: x-large;\"\u003e4-Cresol Marker for Bacteria Including Selected \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eClostridia\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large;\"\u003e Indicates a possible overgrowth of intestinal bacteria that are specific p-cresol producers including selected \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eClostridia\u003c\/span\u003e. 4-Cresol is a phenolic product poorly metabolized in children with autism. High-potency multi-strain probiotics may help rebalance GI flora.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: bold;\"\u003eTricarballylic Acid\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-weight: bold;\"\u003e Marker for Exposure to Certain Fungal Contamination in Foods\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large;\"\u003e A chemical by-product released from fumonisins during passage through the gastrointestinal tract. Fumonisins are fungal toxins produced primarily by \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003eF. verticillioides. \u003c\/span\u003eElevated levels can be caused by the intake of corn or corn-based food contaminated with fumonisins.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: bold; font-size: x-large;\"\u003eQuinolinic Acid Marker for Inflammation and Neurotoxicity\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large;\"\u003e This acid derived from the amino acid tryptophan and can be neurotoxic at high levels. Quinolinic acid can over stimulate nerve cells, causing the cells to die. Brain toxicity due to this acid has been implicated in Alzheimers disease, autism, Huntingtons disease, stroke, dementia, depression, HIV-associated dementia, and schizophrenia.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: bold; font-size: x-large;\"\u003eInorganic Phosphate Marker for Bone Function\/Vitamin D Deficiency\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large;\"\u003e Low phosphate is associated with thyroid disorders, low nutritional phosphate intake, and vitamin D deficiency.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: bold; font-size: x-large;\"\u003e4-Hydroxybenzoic Acid Marker for Exposure to Parabens\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large;\"\u003e This acid is a metabolite of methylparaben, an anti-fungal and a popular preservative added to food and cosmetics. Parabens may be linked to mitochondrial failure resulting in chronic fatigue. Hydroxybenzoic acids can also be produced from microbial metabolism of polyphenols in the diet. Parabens have been found at high levels in breast cancer samples, but a definitive relationship with breast cancer has not been demonstrated.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: bold; font-size: x-large;\"\u003e4-Hydroxyhippuric Acid Marker for Exposure to Parabens \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large;\"\u003e 4-Hydroxyhippuic, like 4-hydroxybenzoic acid, is a metabolite of methylparaben. Higher levels of this compound can result from eating fruits rich in anthocyanins, flavonols, and hydroxycinnamates that are metabolized by gastrointestinal bacteria.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: bold; font-size: x-large;\"\u003eMalic Acid Marker for Mitochondrial Dysfunction\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large;\"\u003e When malic acid is elevated simultaneously with citric, fumaric, and alpha-ketoglutaric acids, it may cause Cytochrome C Oxidase Deficiency, a metabolic disorder disrupting energy production.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: bold; font-size: x-large;\"\u003eDHPPA Marker for Beneficial Bacteria\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large;\"\u003e Harmless or beneficial bacteria mediate the breakdown of chlorogenic acid to 3,4-dihydroxyphenylpropionic acid (DHPPA). High values of DHPPA are associated with increased amounts of bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: bold; font-size: x-large;\"\u003eN-acetylcysteine (NAC) Marker for Glutathione Precursor \u0026amp; Chelating Agent\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large;\"\u003e NAC is a powerful antioxidant that increases glutathione reserves in the body. Glutathione is a crucial antioxidant and detoxification agent produced in the body. NAC reduces the toxicity of drugs like acetaminophen (Tylenol) and protects against poisoning by mercury and other heavy metals.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: bold; font-size: x-large;\"\u003eQuinolinic Acid\/5-HIAA Ratio Marker for Neurotoxicity and Inflammation\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large;\"\u003e A high ratio of quinolinic acid to the metabolite 5-hydoxyindole-acetic acid indicates excessive inflammation. High levels of these markers could be due to recurrent infections, immune overstimulation, high tryptophan intake, excessive adrenal production of cortisol, and frequent exposure to phthalates (chemical used in plastics and many household items).\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4 align=\"center\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: x-large;\"\u003e\u003ca id=\"Clinical_Usefulness\" name=\"Clinical_Usefulness\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"CandidaPlan","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55860760871215,"sku":"OrgAcid","price":599.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0977\/8334\/9551\/files\/greatplains__91270.1432250500.1280.1280.jpg?v=1774594248"},{"product_id":"anti-candida-antibody-igg-igm-iga-by-quest-labs-blood","title":"Anti-Candida Antibody (igG, IgM, IgA) by Quest Labs (blood)","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis test evaluates blood for the immune response to Candida albicans. This is the least sensitive of all of the tests offered.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Anti-Candida Antibody Panel is an analysis of serum (blood) Candida antigen, in addition to IgG, IgA, and IgM antibodies specific for Candida. The antigen is Candida and the antibody is produced by white blood cells in response to candida.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIgM is the first antibody formed after primary exposure to antigen, and reflects a present infection. IgM readily activates complement, and assists the phagocytic system to eliminate antigen from the intravascular space.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e IgG is the predominant antibody formed from secondary exposure to antigen, and reflects a past or ongoing infection. It is also the largest class of antibodies present in the body. It is produced as IgM antibody levels decrease after primary exposure. IgG activates complement, and assists the phagocytic system to eliminate antigen from the extravascular space.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIgA is found in mucous secretions and is important in local (mucosal) immunity. Elevated IgA antibodies may reflect a fungal infection that is affecting mucus membranes throughout the body. It is sometimes associated with a more superficial Candida infection. Mucus is commonly found throughout the length of the digestive tract, as well as in the oral cavity, sinuses, lungs, and vaginal tissues.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn antibody test is a good test to do in conjunction with a stool test.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"CandidaPlan","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55860775780655,"sku":"CandidaAntibody","price":309.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0977\/8334\/9551\/files\/imgres_1__47582.1435265891.1280.1280.png?v=1774594274"},{"product_id":"methylation-test","title":"Methylation Test","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe Methylation Panel is an innovative test designed to offer insight into the critical biochemical methylation pathway. Methylation metabolites are measured in plasma, and genetic single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are analyzed via buccal swab. The results are synthesized on a front-page Interpretation-at-a-Glance (IAAG) graphic for quick methylation status assessment. Within the report, results are shown in a methylation pathway graphic to provide a clear understanding of the biochemistry involved.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"CandidaPlan","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55861640167727,"sku":null,"price":360.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0977\/8334\/9551\/files\/Screen_Shot_2021-08-27_at_3.24.43_PM__63688.1630103223.1280.1280.png?v=1774595739"}],"url":"https:\/\/www.candidaplan.com\/collections\/candida-testing.oembed","provider":"CandidaPlan","version":"1.0","type":"link"}