Nutritional Organic Acids (Urine) - DUTCH

The Nutritional Organic Acids section of the DUTCH test measures organic acids in urine that act as functional indicators of nutrient status.
When the body is low in certain vitamins, amino acids, or antioxidants at the cellular level, related organic acids can build up and be excreted in urine.

In some cases, these functional markers are more reliable than measuring the nutrient directly in blood, because they reflect how well your body is actually using the nutrient—not just how much is circulating.

Key Markers in This Category

1. Methylmalonate (MMA)

   • Marker for vitamin B12 status.

   • High levels may indicate a cellular B12 deficiency, even if blood B12 appears normal.

   • B12 is essential for nerve health, DNA synthesis, and red blood cell formation.

2. Xanthurenate

   • Linked to vitamin B6 status.

   • Elevated levels suggest impaired B6-dependent enzyme function, often related to inflammation or poor amino acid metabolism.

   • B6 is needed for neurotransmitter production and hormone balance.

3. Kynurenate

   • Also influenced by vitamin B6 status and tryptophan metabolism.

   • Imbalances in kynurenate may reflect inflammation, immune activation, or mood-related changes.

4. β-Hydroxyisovalerate

   • Functional marker for biotin (vitamin B7) deficiency.

   • Biotin supports energy metabolism, hair/skin health, and gene regulation.

5. Pyroglutamate

   • Associated with glutathione status.

   • Low or high levels may indicate depletion of glutathione—the body’s “master antioxidant” important for detoxification, immune defense, and reducing oxidative stress.

6. Indican

   • Marker of gut microbial activity.

   • Elevated levels can signal protein putrefaction in the gut, often due to dysbiosis or poor protein digestion.

Why These Markers Matter

By measuring these organic acids, the DUTCH test can:

• Detect hidden nutrient deficiencies before they show up on standard blood tests.

• Identify metabolic imbalances linked to inflammation, poor detoxification, or gut dysbiosis.

• Provide actionable guidance for targeted dietary, supplement, and lifestyle interventions.