Organic acids are chemical compounds that are a product of metabolism. Metabolism is the sum of chemical reactions in living beings by which the body builds new molecules and breaks down molecules to eliminate waste products and produce energy. We secrete these organic acids in our urine. By evaluating the products of your metabolism the OAT test is able to tell you exactly what is impacting your gut function

What are Organic Acids?

Various fungal toxins, including specific markers for candida, as well as other fungus such as mold and yeast. Some candida toxins can create problems with brain function including memory, attention, and focus. 

Specific toxins related to various clostridia bacteria. Clostridia bacteria such as Clostridia difficile (C. diff.) can lead to digestive problems and poor health.

High oxalate (a.k.a. oxalic acid). High oxalate is often associated with joint and muscle pain but can lead to bladder and bowel discomfort as well. Severe cases of oxalate accumulation can cause kidney stones. Oxalate can trap heavy metals such as mercury, lead, and arsenic in the body and lead to mineral imbalances.

Mitochondrial imbalances. The mitochondria are the energy factories of our cells producing large amounts of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). ATP acts as energy currency for our body

Imbalances in dopamine and norepinephrine. The relationship between these two important brain chemicals is critical for attention, focusing, mood, calmness, and other functions of the nervous system.

Deficiency of excess serotonin, an important brain chemical for mood, fine and gross motor skills, calmness, and sleep.

Two specific chemicals related to folate metabolism. Poor folate metabolism can lead to cognitive problems.

Various nutritional markers such as vitamin B6, vitamin B5, vitamin C, CoQ10, as well as N-Acetylcysteine (NAC). 

Glutathione deficiency. Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant in our cells and protects against toxicity. The lack of glutathione leads to oxidative stress within the brain and nervous system which causes poor attention, focusing, and overall cognitive challenges. Glutathione deficiency can also compromise immune system health. Glutathione is a necessary compound involving liver detoxification of chemicals.

What it evaluates for:

How to do it

Super simple! We can ship you the test or you can pick up a test kit here at the office. 

Urine: 10 mL of first morning urine before food or drink is suggested. 

Patients should avoid apples, grapes (including raisins), pears, cranberries and their juices 48 hours prior to specimen collection. Avoid arabinogalactan, echinacea, reishi mushrooms, and ribose supplements for 48 hours before collection.