Urinary organic acids test (OAT)

What this test is

This urine test measures many chemicals called organic acids. In babies and children with a rare inherited condition, this test is a real and useful tool. A genetics specialist usually orders it. The test is also sold as a general wellness test. Some call it a 'dysbiosis' test. In that version, it claims to find yeast or bacteria overgrowth in your gut. It also checks nutrient levels. The claim is that this explains symptoms like fatigue or digestion problems. A careful review looked at this specific use. It found no good evidence that the test finds yeast or bacteria overgrowth. Testing people with general symptoms this way often gives misleading results. Your symptoms deserve a proper look. This test is not a reliable way to find the cause. The exception is a specific concern about an inherited metabolism problem.