Organic Acids Test (OAT)

The Organic Acids Test (OAT) is a comprehensive urine test that provides insight into how your body is functioning at a cellular and biochemical level. It measures over 70 different compounds related to digestion, detoxification, energy production, nutrient metabolism, neurotransmitters, and microbial balance.

This test helps uncover hidden imbalances that may be contributing to fatigue, digestive concerns, skin issues, poor focus, mood changes, or a general sense of not feeling well.

What the OAT Can Reveal

  • Digestive function – including microbial imbalances and fungal overgrowth

  • Detoxification capacity – how well your body clears waste and environmental exposures

  • Mitochondrial health – how efficiently your cells produce energy

  • Nutrient needs – identifying specific vitamin or cofactor insufficiencies

  • Neurotransmitter markers – giving insight into mood and cognitive support

  • Oxalate metabolism – which may impact inflammation or tissue health

Who Might Benefit from the OAT?

This test may be helpful for individuals experiencing:

  • Persistent fatigue or low energy

  • Digestive discomfort, bloating, or irregularity

  • Brain fog or poor concentration

  • Mood changes, anxiety, or irritability

  • Skin issues or breakouts

  • A history of frequent antibiotics or suspected gut imbalance

Conditions Where the OAT Test May Offer Insight:

  • Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)
    For exploring gut health, nutrient imbalances, and neurotransmitter metabolism.

  • ADHD and Learning Differences
    To assess for underlying imbalances affecting attention, focus, and behavior.

  • Anxiety and Depression
    To investigate neurotransmitter metabolites, B-vitamin status, and markers of inflammation or detox capacity.

  • Chronic Fatigue
    For insight into mitochondrial function, nutrient levels, and possible microbial overgrowth.

  • Digestive Disorders
    Including IBS, bloating, chronic constipation, or diarrhea—especially when SIBO, yeast overgrowth, or dysbiosis is suspected.

  • Autoimmune Conditions
    For evaluating oxidative stress, nutrient status, and gut health which may contribute to immune dysregulation.

  • Skin Conditions
    Such as eczema or acne, which may have roots in digestive and detox imbalances.

  • Sleep Disturbances
    To assess markers related to neurotransmitters and nutrient cofactors involved in melatonin and serotonin pathways.

  • Mood Swings or Irritability (in children and adults)
    When behavioural or emotional regulation seems out of sync with lifestyle or environment.

  • Headaches or Migraines
    Particularly when related to detox capacity, gut health, or oxalate accumulation.

  • Developmental Delays
    To explore nutrient absorption and underlying metabolic imbalances that may influence growth or neurodevelopment.

How It Works

  1. Consultation – The OAT is available to current patients and must be discussed during a visit. Your naturopathic doctor will help determine if this test is appropriate for you.

  2. Sample Collection – The test is done at home using a urine collection kit provided through the clinic.

  3. Analysis – The sample is sent to a specialized lab for advanced metabolic profiling.

  4. Follow-Up – Results are reviewed during a scheduled visit. Your naturopathic doctor will interpret the findings and create a personalized plan based on your unique results.

Why Consider the OAT?

Symptoms like fatigue, digestive concerns, or low mood often have root causes that don’t show up on standard tests. The OAT helps connect the dots by identifying underlying metabolic stressors, nutrient needs, and functional imbalances that may be affecting how you feel day to day.