Dr. Nicole Sundene
Scottsdale Naturopathic Doctor
Organic Acids Testing (OAT TEST) can be helpful in establishing a proper diagnosis for complex chronic disease and women's health.
WHAT IS OAT TESTING?
Organic acids are measured via urine testing. Organic acids are the chemical by-products of yeast, bacteria, vitamins, minerals, and neurotransmitters. Many organic acids are chemical irritants to the digestive tract and nervous system and are therefore directly responsible for making women feel sick.
The imbalance of organic acids can come from the microbiome causing a multitude of symptoms we will discuss today when the ratio of yeast to bacteria is out of balance, or the patient has pathogenic yeast, parasites, or bacterial organisms that need to be addressed with herbal medicine antifungals, antiparasitics, and/or antimicrobials.
OAT testing looks at the metabolites from yeast, parasites, and bacteria in the digestive tract. As well as the metabolism and production of neurotransmitters and vitamin byproducts.
Oftentimes I need the help of Organic Acid Testing when initial routine testing and hormone testing both come back normal, yet the patient does not feel well and is struggling with chronic disease symptoms. When I am unable to determine a diagnosis of hormone imbalance or standard medical diagnosis, then OAT Testing becomes imperative to help understand the cause of the symptoms.
The great thing about Organic Acid testing, is that via the urine we can now measure these markers to help determine THE ROOT CAUSE of the symptoms such as a diagnosis of yeast overgrowth, mold exposure, neurotransmitter imbalance, vitamin and mineral deficiencies.
Organic acid testing also looks at levels of oxalates which are highly correlated with many chronic illnesses such as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Fibromyalgia, Autoimmune Disease, and Chronic Pain.
Symptoms Related to Organic Acid Testing:
The abnormalities found on the Organic Acids test help your Naturopathic Doctor determine which specific dietary modifications, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and antioxidants you may need. As well as foods you may need to avoid that are causing the production of these organic acids.
Abnormally high levels of certain microorganisms secreting these organic acids can cause mental health disorders and behavioral issues, especially in children and teens that lack the impulse control we develop as adults. Organic acids can trigger angry outbursts, temper tantrums, rage, hyperactivity, movement disorders, fatigue, and chronic immune dysfunction resulting in frequent sickness. Those with chronic disease and/or neurological issues are likely secreting high levels of these organic acids that then irritate the nervous system.
Treating and removing the offending organism can oftentimes cause a temporary flare in the aggressive or abnormal behavior as the organisms will release more of their organic acids into the bloodstream as they begin to die off. This is referred to as a “Herxheimer Reaction,” and can be reduced by using proper binding agents and probiotics throughout the treatment course.
As a Naturopathic Doctor I find Organic Acid testing extremely helpful for successfully treating my patients with chronic fatigue, digestive, dermatology, mental health, and ADHD.
With the correct information, we can then improve bowel function, increase energy, improve alertness and concentration. I have even seen improved verbal skills and less hyperactivity in my ADHD and Autism spectrum disorder patients.
When in doubt, the OAT test is extremely helpful in establishing a diagnosis and pointing us in the correct direction of the ROOT CAUSE of the patient’s chronic disease symptoms.
It is important to work with a reputable lab approved by your Naturopathic Doctor when relying on Organic Acid Testing. There is only one company I currently trust. While I will not say bad things about other lab companies, the testing is essentially worthless when not conducted by a trusted lab.
If you would like to have your Organic Acid test performed prior to your new patient appointment simply give us a call at (480) 837-0900 so we can have a test kit sent out to you. Please allow 5 full weeks from the date you mail your test kit out to schedule your new patient visit. I am able to help out-of-state patients via telemedicine with their Organic Acid Testing.
Dr. Nicole Sundene
(480) 837-0900
Dr. Sundene is a Naturopathic Doctor in Scottsdale, Arizona, and is considered a Female Hormone Expert in Women's Health and Bioidentical Hormones. She specializes in Holistic Women's Health for Menopause, Thyroid, Hashimotos, PMS, Perimenopause, Autoimmune, Postpartum, Chronic Fatigue, Depression, Anxiety, Food Allergies, Digestion, Dermatology , Acne, Psoriasis, Eczema and Adrenal Hormonal Conditions. In 1999 she began working for a Hormone Doctor prior to starting Naturopathic Medical School. With over 22 years of experience in both Prescription and Natural women's health and hormones she presents to women the best integrated health solutions for their Chronic Disease. She has been an Herbalist for over 27 years and enjoys teaching women how to use herbs to balance their hormones, nutrition and optimize their health. Dr. Sundene relies on blood testing for her hormone metrics. The hormone testing is covered per the patient's insurance plan and conducted at certain points in the woman's menstrual cycle. To learn more about Hormone Testing for Women Visit: Bioidentical Hormones. Follow Dr. Sundene on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook for more tips on Women's Health, Female Hormones and Naturopathy!
