GUT

The gut is a major primary interface between the individual and the environment. Disturbances in gut function can result in devastating ill health effects on the individual. Increased gut permeability can cause absorption of potentially toxic dietary substances and products of incomplete digestion, which are regarded by the body as foreign substances requiring 'attack' when in fact with adequate digestion and normal permeability they would not compromise optimum function. Abnormal gut flora also results in the production of toxic substances which may reduce the level of patient health. We will eventually provide on this webpage, a technical synopsis of the published scientific papers providing very strong support for this form of patient assessment, in preference to 'blind' drug prescribing purely on the basis of symptoms and drug company promotion.

The patient is given 1 gramme of glucose in hardened gelatine capsules (2 x 500mg capsules) with 4 grammes of glucose dissolved in 80-100ml of water. The glucose solution prevents the capsules from disintegrating in the stomach and this ensures that an adequate amount of glucose passes into the duodenum. A blood sample is taken one hour later and the plasma is analysed for simple and complex alcohols along with short chain fatty acids. Comments are added when abnormalities of bacterial fermentation or a possible yeast overgrowth are indicated by the results.

[Grey top fluoride oxalate tube (DO NOT USE ALCOHOL SWAB), No food for 3 hours and no alcohol for 24 hours before the test, kit available from the laboratory]

Abnormal gut fermentation: Laboratory studies reveal deficiency of B vitamins, zinc and magnesium Eaton KK, Mclaren-Howard J, Hunnisett A, Harris M. J.Nutr. Biochem. 1993;4:635-638 Abstract

Gut fermentation (or the 'Autobrewery') Syndrome: A New Clinical Test with Initial Observations and Discussion of Clinical and Biochemical Implications. Hunnisett A, Howard J, Davies S. J.Nutr.Med. 1990;1:338. Abstract

For small intestinal bacterial overgrowth and intestinal motility, or, using a different protocol, for lactose malabsorption.

[Patient must attend the laboratory for all of these tests. No food from midnight the previous evening]

Many hormones, cytokines, chemotactic agents and CNS-active metabolites are SCPPs. These substances are also produced during incomplete digestion of proteins. They are relatively small molecules and are easily absorbed into circulation where they can mimic hormones and moderators of immune function. They can also affect CNS metabolism and further disturb endocrine function through inappropriate feedback signals to the pituitary.

There are too many of these substances to measure them individually. The results are reported as the total concentration of SCPPs for each group according to the number of amino acids. Reference ranges are provided for adult males, adult females and for pre-puberty children aged 3 years and over. The test is not appropriate for babies.

A heparinised blood sample is taken 1-to-2 hours after a meal that includes proteins. The foods chosen should reflect the usual main meal of the day and have regard for any dietary restrictions already in place. Failure to do this can lead to false negative findings.

Increases in SCPPs are associated with digestive problems and/or increased gut permeability. However, raised levels are sometimes found in patients without any clinical evidence of gut dysfunction.

Indications for the test include unexplained endocrine disorder and immune dysfunction as well as digestive/permeability problems.

[Green heparin tube taken 1.5 - 2 hours after a protein containing meal - "normal" meal]