Gut Microbiome Test
Last updated: March 31st, 2024
The gut microbiome refers to the diverse community of microbes that live in the gastrointestinal tract. These include bacteria, fungi, viruses, and archaea.
These microorganisms play a crucial role in: * digestion, * nutrient absorption, * immune function, and * metabolism among other physiological processes.
A gut microbiome test analyses the composition and diversity of microorganisms present in an individual's gut.
What does a gut microbiome test involve?
The test involves collecting a stool sample from the patient. This contains a representative sample of the gut microbiota.
The sample is then subjected to high-throughput DNA sequencing techniques. This is done to identify and quantify the different microbial species present.
This test is thus also known as microbiome analysis or gut microbiome sequencing.
Why do a gut microbiome test?
Healthcare providers as gastroenterologists, dieticians and nutritionists may recommend this test for these reasons:
Investigating gastrointestinal symptoms
Analysing the gut microbiome can provide insights into potential microbial imbalances. An imbalance in the gut microbiota, also known as gut dysbiosis, can result in digestive disorders as:
- irritable bowel syndrome (IBS),
- inflammatory bowel disease (IBD),
- diarrhea,
- constipation, and
- bloating.
Assessing overall health
By evaluating the composition of the gut microbiota, this test yields insights into a patient's health status. And potential disease risk factors. The gut microbiome is in fact linked to various systemic conditions beyond the gut, including:
- metabolic disorders such as obesity and type 2 diabetes,
- autoimmune diseases,
- mental health disorders, such as depression and anxiety,
- allergies, and
- skin conditions, such as eczema and acne
Personalised nutrition and lifestyle recommendations
The gut microbiome plays a significant role in dietary metabolism and nutrient absorption. Analysing an individual's gut microbiome can help tailor personalized dietary and lifestyle recommendations. Which promote overall well-being.