The GI Map with Zonulin is an excellent way to get a good look at overall GI health in one test. One of the test values is Zonulin (Can be ordered separately). Zonulin is a protein that is the doorway to a leaky gut! Zonulin is secreted by specific cells in the gut that regulate intercellular tight junctions (doorways between the gut and the circulatory system) that make up the gastrointestinal lining. Zonulin increases intestinal permeability in the jejunum and ileum and is considered a biomarker for barrier permeability. Tight junctions can be opened or closed depending on what is trying to move through the doorway. Zonulin’s role is to open tight junctions in the gut. In the case of enteric infections, high zonulin can “open the floodgates” and flush out bacteria and toxins. Certain gut bacteria and gliadin (found in wheat) can activate and overstimulate the zonulin system.
Here are a few triggers that may stimulate an increase in Zonulin:
✔️ Yeast/ Mold overgrowth in the intestine
✔️ SIBO = small intestinal bacterial overgrowth
✔️ Fungal dysbiosis or candida overgrowth
✔️ Parasite infections (Not just a 3rd world problem ?)
✔️ Gliadin – a protein found in wheat
Diagnostic Solutions Laboratory utilizes proven qPCR technology with high Sensitivity and
Specificity to provide quantitative, accurate, and reliable results.
Special Instructions: Ship to lab Monday-Friday only. Specimen MUST be received by the lab within 6 days of collection. If you cannot ship the specimen on the day of collection, please refrigerate the sample. Avoid taking aspirin for 2 days prior to collection. DO NOT discontinue any medications unless directed by your physician.
Turn Around Time: 10 – 12 days
Disclaimer:
Your health care provider should evaluate a deviation from normal ranges.
