Microbiome Test

This test is suitable for anyone who would like to gain insight into their gut microbiome and improve their health. The test may be particularly interesting if you:

• Have digestive problems (bloating, gas, constipation, or diarrhea)
• Want to learn more about your health
• Are interested in improving the gut microbiome
• Experience a lot of stress or mood problems
• Do not sleep well or often feel unwell  
• Have low energy

The results of the Microbiome Test contain personalized advice on how to improve your microbiome. This advice is based on your unique test results and the answers to a questionnaire about your lifestyle.  Here are some general tips on how to improve your microbiome:

1. Eat a varied diet: A varied diet can promote a diverse gut microbiome. Try to incorporate a broad range of foods, especially plant-based ones, into your meals. Different microbes thrive on different types of foods. 
2. Eat more fiber: High-fiber foods, such as whole grains, legumes, fruits, and vegetables, act as fuel for beneficial gut bacteria. 
3. Consume fermented foods: Foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, miso, and kombucha contain live beneficial bacteria (probiotics) that can positively influence your gut microbiome. 
4. Take prebiotics: Prebiotics are non-digestible fibers that feed beneficial gut bacteria. Foods like garlic, onions, asparagus, and bananas are good sources. 
5. Avoid overusing antibiotics: While sometimes necessary to treat infections, overuse or misuse of antibiotics can harm the balance of gut bacteria. Only use them as prescribed by a healthcare professional. 
6. Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water benefits the mucosal lining of the intestines and promotes the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. 
7. Limit stress: Chronic stress can negatively impact gut health. Find stress-reducing activities that suit you, such as meditation, exercise, or hobbies. 
8. Get regular exercise: Physical activity can enrich the diversity of the gut microbiome. Find a routine that you enjoy and is sustainable for you. 

This Microbiome Test involves the genetic sequencing of a stool sample to determine the composition of bacteria in your gut. This intensive process takes longer than a typical laboratory test. You can expect to receive your test results three weeks after returning your sample to the ISO certified laboratory.

The link between reduced gut diversity and disease suggests that a healthy microbiome is more resilient to environmental factors. In a well-balanced gut microbiome, functionally related microbes can compensate for the absence of other species, maintaining overall functionality. Consequently, the diversity of bacteria in the microbiome seems to be a generally good indicator of a “healthy gut.” 

The link between the microbiome and its role in disease continues to be researched. Yet, studies have shown its impact on both physiological health and even mental health. A healthy microbiome can reduce the risk of obesity, heart disease, diabetes and cancer (Zaky, 2021). The microbiota is the part of the microbiome that consists only of bacteria.  The microbiota can stimulate the immune system, break down potentially toxic food compounds, and synthesize certain vitamins and amino acids,  including the B vitamins and vitamin K. The microbiota of a healthy person can also provide protection from potentially harmful organisms that enter the body such as through drinking or eating contaminated water or food.Lower bacterial diversity in the gut is associated with inflammatory bowel disease, psoriatic arthritis, type 1 diabetes, atopic eczema, coeliac disease, obesity, type 2 diabetes, and arterial stiffness (Valdes, 2018). Although research shows connections between these conditions and the microbiome, we do not yet know if modifying your microbiome will directly alleviate symptoms. While a healthy microbiome is essential for optimal health, and may help in managing the conditions mentioned, we cannot guarantee that altering your microbiome will lead to symptom relief.

No. The 16S rRNA analysis method used in this test measures only bacterial DNA. It relies on the 16S gene, which is unique to bacteria and not found in human cells.​​

You can generally test the gut microbiome at any time. However, for the most accurate results, we suggest taking the test when you’re following your usual routine. If you’ve recently been ill, traveling, or finished a course of antibiotics, it’s best to wait until you’ve returned to your normal state before testing. If illness or medication is a regular part of your routine, you can take the test as usual.

The liquid in the collection tube preserves the DNA of the bacteria to be analyzed and keeps the sample stable for at least six months. While it is recommended to mail your sample to the laboratory as soon as possible, the quality will not be compromised if it is sent later.

This test strictly involves a microbiome analysis, during which only bacteria are measured.

This test can be taken at any time of day. The collection process takes about five minutes, and filling out the lifestyle questionnaire takes approximately 5-10 minutes. Choose a quiet moment when you are not rushed.

If you regularly take certain medications or supplements, continue using them while taking this test. If you are taking short term medications, it is best to wait until after the course of medication is finished and you are back in your regular routine. If you have taken antibiotics, wait 4-6 weeks after finishing the course before using this test, as they can affect the test results.