Bile Acid Diarrhea: Understanding Testing and Underlying Cause
In this case review, Dr. Ilana Gurevich explores bile acid diarrhea and how to use the GI‑MAP® to discover underlying causes and tailor individualized treatments. She explains the physiology of primary and secondary bile acid production and why patients may experience bile acid malabsorption.
The case review includes an overview of pertinent GI‑MAP markers, including specific bacteria, steatocrit, and elastase-1. Dr. Gurevich highlights the utility of the steatocrit marker, particularly in comparison to other fecal fat measurement methods. Finally, treatment options for bile acid diarrhea are explored, including natural remedies and pharmaceutical therapies such as bile acid sequestrants.
This case review emphasizes the value of using the GI‑MAP to identify the root causes of a patient’s symptoms. This targeted approach leads to more effective management of conditions like chronic diarrhea, ultimately improving patient outcomes.
Author Ilana Gurevich, ND, NSOM, FABNG
Dr. Gurevich is a naturopathic medical physician and an acupuncturist who uses individualized natural therapies to address the underlying cause of disease. She encourages her patients to take an active role in their own health care. Dr. Gurevich relies on a variety of natural modalities including Chinese and Western herbal medicine, acupuncture, nutritional supplements, homeopathy, hydrotherapy, and dietary education.
The opinions expressed in this presentation are the author's own. Information is provided for informational purposes only and is not meant to be a substitute for personal advice provided by a doctor or other qualified health care professional. Patients should not use the information contained herein for diagnosing a health or fitness problem or disease. Patients should always consult with a doctor or other health care professional for medical advice or information about diagnosis and treatment.