Poor gut health won’t just have a negative impactimpact on the digestive system1.
It’s been linked to skin issues,mood disorders,negative emotions, diabetes, andeven cancers2.
What is a gut microbiome test?
The process typically involves collecting a small sample of stool and sending it to a specialized lab for analysis.
The most basic option, Gut Intelligence is the foundational gut health test.
These results will outline your digestive deficiencies, as well as post-test recommendations for helping your gut.
Want to know more?
Check outour full review of Viome’s Gut Intelligence Test, from a registered nurse.
The latter allows you to ask clarifying questions and gain further insight into what your biomarker readings actually mean.
With your results, youll be given a gut health score of 1 to 10.
Like most brands, Biohm uses DNA to test for biomarkers.
However, this does not include access to medical support.
Flore Gut Health Test
Flore is a newcomer with great potential in the at-home testing market.
It also tests DNA for multiple biomarkers and offers one of the shortest waiting periods for results.
However, this brand is still a standout for those who want regular gut testing.
Each persons gut microbiome will have different components to accommodate regional diversity.
Further, your unique dynamic gut flora demands will be based on specific environmental forces.
What is considered a healthy gut one year may change the next.
How to test your gut microbiome
Gut microbiomes are tested using fecal matter.
Yes, you will need to collect a sample of your poop.
However, this non-invasive method allows the best insight into your digestive health.
Understanding that a single sample is unlikely to capture the full picture.
As a result, a single sample may not capture a full picture of your body’s health.
These tests are also not FDA-approved andnotconsidered diagnostic.
Who should use an at-home microbiome test?
At-home microbiome tests are a convenient and relatively inexpensive way to monitor your gut health.
Anyone experiencing severe digestive symptoms should consult with a medical professional.
At-home tests are not a source of diagnostic testing and are not a replacement for traditional medical care.
Never start a new supplementation routineespecially one based off your gut microbiome testswithout connecting with a healthcare professional.
When is the best time to test for microbiomes?
Gut microbiome tests use a sample of stool.
Due to these circumstances, its unlikely consumers can schedule their collection time.
Fortunately, there is no consensus on the best time of day to test your gut microbiome.
No, microbiome testing is not covered by insurance companies at this time.
However, most at-home tests can be purchased with an HSA or FSA account.
Is there a test to check gut health?
Which microbiome test is best?
It is the only brand that tests bacteria and fungi in addition to other biomarkers.
Its turnaround time is comparable to others, and they have technologically advanced testing methods.
The takeaway
We are learning more and more thatgut health is directly related to your overall well-being.
While youre thinking ofoptimizing your gut health, takethese natural practicesinto consideration.
What we’ve updated since publishing
3/1/23:We added original imagery from our testers.
