Cortisol Stress Test

Why Your Gut Matters

Why Your Gut Health is the Key to Your Wellbeing

The gut microbiome is home to trillions of bacteria that affect digestion, immunity, energy, and even mood. Imbalances in this ecosystem (too much “bad” bacteria, not enough “good” bacteria, or hidden infections from parasites) can trigger symptoms such as:

Bloating and gas
Constipation or diarrhoea
IBS symptoms
Food intolerances
Fatigue or brain fog
Skin problems like acne or eczema

Why Your GP Might Not Find the Root Cause

Standard stool tests usually look for a few major infections or parasites only. They don’t measure beneficial vs harmful bacteria balance, digestive enzyme function, or hidden inflammation caused by rarer parasites, stress hromones or food intolerances. This is why many people are told “everything looks normal” even when symptoms persist.

Client Testing cases

Paul

"After fifteen years of gradual worsening of a digestive condition I turned to Nicole in hope rather than expectation.

No doctor or specialist seemed to have any detailed knowledge of my condition which was getting worse and beginning to affect my working life.

Nicole tackled the issue in a logical manner and with the benefit of her intimate knowledge of nutrition we began resetting my digestion process starting again and eliminating any possible causes.

Fast forward and my gut health is in great shape and Nicole's nutrition advice is continuing the building of a strong and diverse microbiome with all of the accompanying health and wellness benefits."

Frequently Asked Questions

Please reach us at info@cortaderiawellness.com if you cannot find an answer to your question.

Are stool tests accurate?

Yes. We only work with internationally recognised laboratories that use advanced, scientifically validated methods (ISO accredited). Most of our gut tests use DNA-based stool analysis (qPCR) which is highly sensitive and accurate. We have access to other gut tests using NGS (Next generation Sequencing) which is another more modern microbiome sequencing technique.

2. Can’t my GP do this?

Most GPs focus on ruling out serious conditions. They usually run standard blood tests, which are helpful but often miss the subtle imbalances that explain symptoms like bloating, fatigue, or poor sleep. Functional tests measure things that GPs don’t usually check, such as:

Gut microbiome balance
Digestive enzymes

3. Do I need to travel for the test?

No - All our tests are home-based kits. But if we can find a more cost effective alternative for you, we will! Depending on the test, you may need to provide a saliva, urine, or stool sample. Clear instructions are provided, and once you’ve collected the sample, you simply send it back to the lab by post.

4. How long does it take to get results?

Typically, gut test results are available within 4–6 weeks (depending on the test) after the lab receives your sample. Once I have your results, we’ll book you in for an online consultation to go through them in detail.

5. Are these tests covered by the NHS/insurance?

In most cases, no. Because functional tests go beyond standard NHS testing, they are privately paid. Some private health insurance plans may cover part of the cost, but this varies. For a list of insurance partners that cover functional medicine testing, please visit our article on 'FAQ on Functional Medicine'

6. How much does it cost?

Prices typically range from £300–£400, plus consultation. Depending on type of gut test & location.

7. Can I do testing if I’m already taking medication?

In most cases, yes. Some medications may affect results, so I’ll let you know if we need to make any adjustments before testing. We'll always recommend continuing to follow your GP’s advice alongside functional medicine.

Gut Microbiome Testing: Uncover the Root of Digestive Issues

Gut Microbiome Testing: Uncover the Root of Digestive Issues

Why Your Gut Matters

Why Your Gut Health is the Key to Your Wellbeing

Why Your GP Might Not Find the Root Cause

What We Test For

Digestive Enzyme Capacity e.g. Elastase

Immune System Markers e.g. IgA

Levels of Good and Bad Bacteria

Yeast and Fungal Overgrowth (e.g. Candida)

Parasites & Pathogens

Signs of Leaky Gut (Intestinal Permeability)

Inflammation Markers

Short-chain Fatty Acids (Healthy Gut Health Metabolites)

How the Gut Test Works

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Client Testing cases

Paul

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to Finally Get Answers About Your Gut?

Gut Microbiome Testing: Uncover the Root of Digestive Issues

Gut Microbiome Testing: Uncover the Root of Digestive Issues

Why Your Gut Matters

Why Your Gut Health is the Key to Your Wellbeing

Why Your GP Might Not Find the Root Cause

What We Test For

Digestive Enzyme Capacity e.g. Elastase

Immune System Markers e.g. IgA

Levels of Good and Bad Bacteria

Yeast and Fungal Overgrowth (e.g. Candida)

Parasites & Pathogens

Signs of Leaky Gut (Intestinal Permeability)

Inflammation Markers

Short-chain Fatty Acids (Healthy Gut Health Metabolites)

How the Gut Test Works

Step 1:

Step 2:

Step 2:

Step 2:

Step 2:

Step 2:

Step 3:

Step 2:

Step 3:

Step 4:

Step 4:

Step 3:

Step 5:

Step 4:

Step 5:

Client Testing cases

Paul

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to Finally Get Answers About Your Gut?

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