A gut microbiome test is conducted to determine the health of your digestive system's microbiome, which is essential for overall wellbeing and nutrition absorption.
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The human gut microbiome is composed of trillions of microorganisms residing in the human digestive tract, of which more than 90% are bacteria. These bacteria contribute to digestion, nutrient absorption, and immunity support. They help break down complex carbohydrates and also produce essential vitamins and molecules that protect against pathogen overgrowth and inflammatory responses.
Maintaining a healthy microbiome composition and promoting overall health requires a balanced composition of the bacterial communities in which no species is dominant. There are several conditions that can be influenced by imbalances in the microbiome composition, from intestinal disorders such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) to chronic systemic diseases such as obesity and diabetes. Ongoing research continues to uncover the bacterial gut microbiome's vital role in human health.
Follow the simple instructions in the test kit to collect a stool sample, and use the included packaging and shipping label to send it to the laboratory for analysis. It is important to complete the enclosed label, and to attach it to the tube before sending. It is a non-invasive and straight forward procedure that takes only a few minutes to complete.
The lab will carry out a genetic analysis of all bacteria present in the sample. A specialised bioinformatic platform will interpret the results and produce a report that explains how your microbiome compares to the general population. The report includes multiple microbiome health metrics, with abnormalities in the abundance of either “good” bacteria, such as probiotic species or potentially “bad” bacteria, such as pathogens or species that may trigger inflammatory responses getting flagged. This information allows your clinician to intervene and to restore balance if necessary.
The test does not require any special preparation, although it is recommended that you continue to take your typical medications and supplements in order to properly evaluate their effects on your microbiome composition. Consult with your physician for guidance.
Unless specifically recommended by your physician, you should not begin any new supplements such as fibre or probiotics or drastically change your dietary habits just before your test.
Due to the potential effects of antibiotics on the gut microbiome, you should not take the test immediately following a course of antibiotics unless your clinician requests it in order to evaluate the effects of these medications.
Wait at least a week after a colonoscopy or other procedure which might impact the gut – speak to your physician if you are unsure.
The stool sample will be sent to the laboratory; the results will be available with your consultant or GP within 4 weeks.
Please ensure you make a follow up appointment with your consultant or GP to obtain your results and information on any treatment that may be required.
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Our Digestive Health consultants are highly capable specialists who will be fully able to diagnose your underlying conditions and treat them quickly and efficiently.