Ordering the Bacterial Organic Acids Test (MOAT) | Great Plains Labs | Canada
The Bacterial Organic Acids Test (MOAT) from Great Plains Labs helps identify imbalances in gut bacteria and yeast by measuring specific organic acids in urine. This test is often used to investigate symptoms like bloating, brain fog, digestive discomfort, and mood changes, providing a detailed look at how gut microbes may be affecting nutrient absorption and metabolic function. Interestingly, certain organic acids measured in this test can also reveal hidden issues with neurotransmitter production, which may impact focus and emotional balance.
Ordering this test can help you pinpoint the root causes of symptoms that have not responded to dietary changes or supplements. When ordering, you can expect these specific benefits:
- Detects overgrowth of yeast and harmful bacteria that may not show up in standard stool tests
- Identifies markers linked to metabolic imbalances affecting energy and concentration
- Reveals disruptions in nutrient absorption that may contribute to fatigue and skin issues
- Highlights patterns associated with food sensitivities and unexplained digestive symptoms
- Provides actionable data to guide targeted dietary and supplement strategies
Who Should Consider Microbial Organic Acids Screening
People who experience ongoing digestive discomfort, unexplained fatigue, or mood swings may benefit from this test. For example, someone who has tried multiple diets and supplements for persistent bloating and brain fog, but still struggles with focus and energy, may find that this test uncovers hidden imbalances in gut bacteria or yeast.
Ordering this test may also be helpful in these situations:
- Frequent headaches or migraines that do not improve with typical treatments
- Children with attention or behavioral challenges that have not responded to standard interventions
- Adults with joint pain and inflammation that seem unrelated to injury or arthritis
- People with recurring skin rashes or eczema that flare up after eating certain foods
- Unexpected weight changes that occur alongside digestive symptoms and mood changes
This test is recommended for those seeking measurable answers about gut-related symptoms, as it can reveal specific imbalances that may be missed by other tests. Delaying this test could mean missing the opportunity to address underlying microbial issues before they contribute to more persistent metabolic or immune problems. To move forward, consider ordering the test to gain clear, actionable information.
Preparing for Microbial Organic Acids Analysis
Fasting is not required for this urine test, but it is best to collect the sample first thing in the morning for the most consistent results. Always follow any instructions provided by your doctor or healthcare practitioner to ensure your sample is collected and shipped correctly.
Labs Included When Ordering Your Bacterial Organic Acids Test (MOAT)
| Test Name | Reference Range | What This Marker Means | Low and High Levels of Bacterial Organic Acids Test (MOAT) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Citramalic Acid | 0–4 | Citramalic acid is a byproduct of certain bacteria and yeast in the gut. High levels may indicate yeast or bacterial overgrowth. |
High levels mean possible yeast or bacterial imbalance in the digestive tract.
Low levels mean normal or low microbial activity. |
| 5-Hydroxymethyl-2-Furoic Acid | 0–2 | This marker is linked to the breakdown of certain sugars by gut microbes. It can reflect changes in gut flora or carbohydrate metabolism. |
High levels mean increased microbial fermentation of sugars.
Low levels mean typical sugar metabolism or low microbial activity. |
| 3-Oxoglutaric Acid | 0–7 | 3-Oxoglutaric acid is produced by certain bacteria and can be a sign of gut dysbiosis or yeast overgrowth. |
High levels mean possible yeast or bacterial imbalance.
Low levels mean balanced gut flora. |
| Furan-2,5-Dicarboxylic Acid | 0–2 | This compound is a marker for certain bacterial activity in the gut. It can indicate changes in the types of bacteria present. |
High levels mean increased activity of specific gut bacteria.
Low levels mean typical bacterial balance. |
| Furancarbonylglycine | 0–3 | Furancarbonylglycine is a byproduct of gut bacteria and can reflect changes in microbial metabolism. |
High levels mean increased bacterial fermentation.
Low levels mean normal microbial metabolism. |
| Tartaric Acid | 0–3 | Tartaric acid is a marker for yeast overgrowth, especially Candida species. It can also be influenced by certain foods. |
High levels mean possible yeast overgrowth or high intake of tartaric acid-rich foods.
Low levels mean typical yeast activity. |
| Arabinose | 0–29 | Arabinose is a sugar alcohol produced by yeast, especially Candida. It is a key marker for yeast overgrowth in the gut. |
High levels mean likely yeast overgrowth.
Low levels mean normal yeast levels. |
| Carboxycitric Acid | 0–3 | Carboxycitric acid is a byproduct of certain molds and fungi. It can indicate exposure to mold or fungal overgrowth. |
High levels mean possible mold or fungal exposure.
Low levels mean low or no fungal activity. |
| Tricarballylic Acid | 0–2 | Tricarballylic acid is produced by certain molds and can disrupt mineral absorption in the gut. |
High levels mean possible mold exposure or mineral absorption issues.
Low levels mean typical mold activity. |
| 2-Hydroxyphenylacetic Acid | 0–5 | This marker is linked to the breakdown of proteins by gut bacteria. It can reflect changes in protein digestion or bacterial balance. |
High levels mean increased protein fermentation by gut bacteria.
Low levels mean typical protein digestion. |
| 4-Hydroxyphenylacetic Acid | 0–7 | This compound is a byproduct of bacterial metabolism and can indicate changes in gut flora or protein breakdown. |
High levels mean increased bacterial activity or protein breakdown.
Low levels mean balanced gut bacteria. |
| 4-Hydroxybenzoic Acid | 0–5 | 4-Hydroxybenzoic acid is a marker for bacterial metabolism and can reflect changes in the types of bacteria present in the gut. |
High levels mean increased bacterial fermentation.
Low levels mean typical bacterial activity. |
| 4-Hydroxyhippuric Acid | 0–6 | This marker is linked to the breakdown of certain plant compounds by gut bacteria. It can reflect changes in diet or bacterial balance. |
High levels mean increased breakdown of plant compounds.
Low levels mean typical plant compound metabolism. |
| HPHPA (Clostridia marker) | 0–1 | HPHPA is a specific marker for Clostridia bacteria overgrowth, which can affect neurotransmitter balance and behavior. |
High levels mean possible Clostridia overgrowth.
Low levels mean low or no Clostridia activity. |
| 4-Cresol | 0–3 | 4-Cresol is produced by certain bacteria and can be linked to gut inflammation or changes in microbial balance. |
High levels mean increased bacterial fermentation or inflammation.
Low levels mean typical bacterial activity. |
| DHPPA (beneficial bacteria) | 0–2 | DHPPA is a marker for beneficial bacteria in the gut. It can reflect the presence of healthy gut flora. |
High levels mean strong presence of beneficial bacteria.
Low levels mean reduced beneficial bacteria. |
| Hippuric Acid | 0–250 | Hippuric acid is a byproduct of gut bacteria breaking down dietary components. It can reflect changes in diet or microbial balance. |
High levels mean increased breakdown of dietary compounds.
Low levels mean low microbial activity or low intake of certain foods. |
| 3-Indoleacetic Acid | 0–10 | 3-Indoleacetic acid is a marker for protein breakdown by gut bacteria and can reflect changes in gut flora or protein intake. |
High levels mean increased protein fermentation.
Low levels mean typical protein metabolism. |
| 3-Hydroxy-3-methylglutaric Acid | 0–2 | This marker is linked to mitochondrial function and can reflect changes in energy production or microbial metabolism. |
High levels mean possible mitochondrial or metabolic stress.
Low levels mean typical energy metabolism. |
| 2-Hydroxyhippuric Acid | 0–5 | 2-Hydroxyhippuric acid is a byproduct of gut bacteria and can reflect changes in microbial metabolism or diet. |
High levels mean increased microbial fermentation.
Low levels mean typical microbial activity. |
| Creatinine | 0.3–3.0 | Creatinine is used to normalize urine concentration for accurate comparison of organic acid levels. |
High levels mean concentrated urine or possible kidney issues.
Low levels mean diluted urine or low muscle mass. |
Reference ranges may change slightly as labs update their methods and guidelines. Always review your results with a qualified practitioner for the most current interpretation.
Bacterial Organic Acids Test (MOAT) FAQ
Is there Bacterial Organic Acids Test (MOAT) testing near me?
This test is a home collection kit, so you can collect your urine sample locally and use the draw location link at the top of the page for guidance. For those dealing with ongoing digestive symptoms or brain fog, having a convenient collection option helps you get answers without extra travel or delays.
How do I interpret the test results?
While your treating physician should review your results, you can also schedule a one-on-one test results review with our clinical team for a detailed explanation and next steps.
What is the cost of the test?
The price listed for this test includes standard shipping to your address and return shipping to the lab, though draw fees may apply. Ordering this test can help you address persistent gut symptoms and get targeted support sooner.
How often should I retest?
Retesting is usually recommended every 3 to 6 months, especially if you are making changes to your diet or supplements based on your results. Regular retesting helps track progress and adjust your plan as your gut environment changes.
How accurate is the test?
This test uses gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) to measure organic acids, with a specificity of 98% and sensitivity of 97%. TrueHealthLabs.com partners with CLIA-certified and CAP-certified laboratories to uphold rigorous testing standards for dependable results.
Important Notes
- This test can not be collected or mailed from New York State. Contact us with questions.
Medical Review Board
Reviewed by Jeff Donohue M.D. from Body Logic and Brady Hurst DC, CCCN. Written by True Health Lab’s team of editorial health contributors.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
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