Ep.86: Connecting the patterns on your functional stool test to reveal the why to your symptoms

If you’ve ever looked at a stool test and felt completely overwhelmed by all the bacteria names, numbers, and colors, you’re not alone. In this episode, Dr. Heather breaks down exactly what your stool test says about your symptoms, from bloating and constipation to hormone imbalance, fatigue, and skin issues. You’ll learn why stool testing goes far beyond “good vs. bad bacteria,” and how it maps out your digestion, detox pathways, immune health, and overall gut terrain. Dr. Heather explains what it really means when markers like beta-glucuronidase, H. pylori, calprotectin, or secretory IgA are high or low, and how these patterns overlap to reveal the root cause of your symptoms. You’ll walk away with a whole new perspective on testing and why it’s not about just "treating the test" and more about understanding what your gut is trying to tell you about how your symptoms are connected. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Why stool testing is about function, not just “fixing” numbers The connection between high beta-glucuronidase and estrogen or histamine symptoms How low commensal bacteria can drive leaky gut, fatigue, and skin issues Why H. pylori suppresses stomach acid and leads to low iron or reflux What low elastase means for digestion, bloating, and nutrient absorption How low secretory IgA reflects stress, burnout, and food sensitivities The link between fat malabsorption and low sodium or bile flow Why calprotectin and anti-gliadin IgA reveal deeper inflammation How to interpret patterns instead of chasing isolated markers Don’t Miss This Sunday’s (Oct 19) Live Training! SIBO Unlocked You’ll leave knowing exactly why SIBO (or chronic symptoms) keep coming back, and what to do about it so you can find relief for good! Register here Resources Mentioned: Apply for gutTogether: www.guttogetherprogram.com Follow Dr. Heather'e eyes on your case? Purchase a Find the real root causes of your GI symptoms with our free, 2 minute Quiz! Connect + Next Steps Want daily education, stories, and gut-friendly support? Heather on Instagram Ready for personalized 1:1 support and a clear plan? Apply for gutTogether® Want a chance to win a free HTMA Bundle? Leave a rating & review and email it to happygut@drheatherfinley.co with [PODCAST REVIEW] in the subject line! We choose a new winner every month!