Gut Microbiome Test: What is it and should you do one?

By now you may have heard of the gut microbiome and its key role in our health and wellbeing. So what happens when it's out of balance, and how do you know? That's where gut microbiome testing comes in. 

In this read, we’ll guide you through a quick reminder of what the gut microbiome is, what a test involves, how it works, if you should get one, plus how you can care for your gut health.

What is the gut microbiome?

But first, let's recap! The gut microbiome refers to the trillions of microorganisms living in the intestines. These microbes are not only essential for digesting food, but they also help extract and make the vitamins you need, fight off bad bugs that can make you sick, and keep your immune system in tip-top shape. The careful balance of the gut microbiome can affect your health in many ways, influencing everything from metabolism, healthy weight and even mental wellbeing. 

With so many benefits stemming from your gut health, how can you ensure that your gut has a varied and diverse range of good microbes? Enter: the gut microbiome test. Knowing what microbes may inhabit your gut, can help you take steps to reduce not-so-friendly bacteria and make digestion a breeze.

What is a gut microbiome test?

A gut microbiome test is a tool used to analyse the different types and quantities of bacteria and other microbes in your digestive tract. Typically, this involves collecting a stool sample that is then analysed using genetic sequencing technologies to identify the microbial composition.

How does a gut microbiome test work?

There are a range of different gut microbiome testing methods currently used. The most common is an at-home test kit, where you privately collect a sample of your poo, seal it up in the provided container and send it off to a scientific lab for testing. Once arrived at the lab, DNA is extracted from the poo sample and using different tools, it is analysed and assessed. 

Some tests may assess the diversity and quantity of gut microbes, while others may provide additional insights like presence of viruses, fungi, parasites, worms or even food intolerances. 

Should you get a gut microbiome test?

Deciding whether to undergo gut microbiome testing depends on individual health goals and conditions. While these tests can provide valuable insights into gut health and potential dysbiosis, they are not diagnostic tools. Instead, they should be used to complement other health information and assessment by a healthcare professional. Individuals experiencing unexplained digestive symptoms, food intolerances, or those interested in personalised dietary recommendations might benefit from gut microbiome testing under the guidance of a healthcare professional. 

Ways to look after your gut microbiome 

Maintaining or improving gut health is vital for overall wellbeing. Here are some easy ways to support a healthy gut microbiome:

• Diet: eating a diverse diet rich in fibre, fruits, vegetables, and fermented foods can increase the amount and the species of microbes in the gut. 
• Probiotics and prebiotics: incorporating probiotics and prebiotics can help support the growth of beneficial bacteria. Probiotics are live microbes found in fermented foods like yoghurt, kimchi and sauerkraut as well as supplements. Prebiotics are compounds in foods like onions, garlic, and asparagus that feed healthy bacteria.
• Regular physical activity: research shows that exercise can potentially help the variety and number of good gut bugs grow.
• Lifestyle factors: such as stress and lack of sleep quality can have an effect on the gut microbiome, with increased stress causing inflammation and reducing the amount of good microbes.  

Wrap up

Gut microbiome testing is an exciting tool that offers insights into the complex world of gut microbes and their impact on our health. While it's not a silver bullet for diagnosing health issues, it can be a valuable part of a comprehensive approach to health. By understanding and nurturing our gut microbiome, we can take meaningful steps toward better health.

Related:

• What is gut health and how to improve it?
• How to increase the good bacteria in your gut naturally
• Can you heal your gut? Why healing the gut may not be as simple as it sounds

Reviewed by the Healthylife health experts in May 2024.