It is in the digestive system, especially in the colon, that most of the bacteria that have been evolving with us for millennia reside. In healthy humans, microbial cells in the large intestine (microbiome) are more numerous than human cells in a ratio of ten to one.
Today it is known that the function and integrity of the microbiome is important for our health.
The study of urinary metabolites aims to measure the products of bacterial and fungi metabolism. It is particularly useful in detecting the presence of imbalances in the composition of the intestinal flora.

• Why a urinary test?
  Urine is a practical means to evaluate the bacteria present in the intestine.
  The products resulting from the normal metabolic activity of the bacteria are normally absorbed by the intestinal wall. They pass into the blood and eventually are excreted in the urine. The products analyzed in this test specific for microbial metabolism and are not normally produced by human cells. Based on the comparative study of these data it is possible to evaluate the importance of imbalances of the intestinal flora.
• What are the clinical indications for its performance?
  The test has been essentially used in a second line of evaluation when the classic tests do not give us an answer regarding the present symptoms.
• What are the clinical indications for its performance?
  The test has been essentially used in a second line of evaluation when the classic tests do not give us an answer regarding the present symptoms.
• Advantages and limitations?
  The main advantage is that essentially with a single non-invasive test that is easy to perform, we can evaluate the composition of the microbiome for the proper functioning of the digestive and immune systems. The fact that the lab work is carried out outside Portugal requires the delivery of the products for analysis on a specific schedule.
• Is a preparation needed?
  No special preparation is required, however, the instructions must be read carefully so that the urine collection runs with the necessary rigor. Once you are in possession of the kit, I am available to give you a short explanation of the procedures.
• Do i need to stop my medication?
  It is important not to eat cranberries, apple, grapes and not to drink wine for 48 hours prior to urine collection. It is also important to moderate the fluid intake the night before urine collection.
• How is the exam performed?
  The test consists essentially of urine collection during the night and first urine in the morning.
• What happens after the exam?
  A sample of the urine is sent by special courier, the result takes three weeks to return.
• What is the cost of examination?
  The price of the test is € 240.00
• What agreements do you have?
  We have chosen not to have any agreements. After payment of the exam a receipt is always issued. You can then submit it along with your doctor’s request for reimbursement from your insurer.

Do not forget!

Specimen transportation is booked in advance, and should not be changed. A bit planning is fundamental.