Organic Acids Check Metabolomic Mapping

The Organic Acids Test (OAT) is a urine analysis that measures organic acids to gain insights into metabolic processes. It evaluates how well the body metabolises nutrients, produces energy, and eliminates toxins. This test helps diagnose metabolic disorders and nutrient deficiencies, allowing practitioners to develop tailored treatment plans for optimal health.

Understanding the Organic Acids Test (OAT )

What is an Organic Acids Test (OAT)?

The Organic Acids Test (OAT) is a comprehensive urine test that measures the levels of organic acids in the body. These organic acids provide valuable insights into various metabolic processes, helping to identify potential imbalances and underlying health issues.

The Role of Organic Acids

Organic acids are byproducts produced when the body breaks down food, metabolizes drugs and toxins, or carries out essential functions such as energy production and neurotransmitter synthesis. These compounds are excreted in the urine, making it possible to analyse them through an OAT.

Key Benefits of an OAT

The OAT offers a detailed look at how well the body is:

Metabolizing nutrients
Producing energy
Eliminating toxins

By evaluating these processes, the test can help diagnose and manage conditions such as:

Metabolic disorders
Toxicity and dysbiosis
Nutrient deficiencies
Mitochondrial dysfunction
Infections and systemic inflammation

How is the OAT Conducted?

The test is straightforward:

Sample Collection: Collect a urine sample at home first thing in the morning before eating or drinking.
Preparation: Avoid certain foods and supplements 48 hours prior to collection to ensure accuracy.
Sending the Sample: Freeze the sample and send it to the laboratory via courier.
Results: Results are typically available within four weeks and are interpreted by a functional medicine practitioner.

Example

What Does the OAT Measure?

The OAT evaluates a wide range of markers, including:

Microbial Markers: Identifies beneficial, dysbiotic, and pathogenic bacteria, yeasts, and fungi such as Candida albicans and Clostridia.
Oxalate Metabolites: Assesses levels of oxalates, which can cause inflammation and damage in tissues like the brain, kidneys, and blood vessels.
Glycolysis Metabolites: Evaluates how the body breaks down glycogen and glucose, crucial for diagnosing fatigue-related conditions.
Mitochondrial Markers: Analyses metabolites involved in energy production, providing insights into mitochondrial health.
Neurotransmitter Metabolites: Measures metabolites of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, helping diagnose neurological and psychiatric conditions.
Pyrimidine Metabolites: Involves the metabolism of folate, essential for blood cell production and nervous system development.
Nutritional Markers: Evaluates levels of key vitamins, antioxidants, and amino acids to identify deficiencies or excesses.
Detoxification Markers: Includes markers for glutathione and other compounds involved in detoxifying metabolic waste and environmental toxins.

Practical Application: Identifying Underlying Issues

For instance, elevated levels of arabinose (a marker for yeast overgrowth) and oxalates together can indicate a high probability of Candida overgrowth, which may interfere with cellular energy production and cause systemic inflammation.

OAT Interpretation and Treatment

If you are considering an OAT, consult with a functional medicine practitioner to determine if it is appropriate for you.