Gut microbiome testing has improved. After the 2000s, due to DNA sequencing, microbiome-targeted nutrition has rapidly evolved. We are learning more and more about the gut microbiome. Although we may still be in the infancy of what the gut microbiome is all about, this doesn’t mean that we can’t use the information we have to help influence the gut in a positive way.
We used to think of the GI tract as a tube that we put food in one end and garbage comes out the other. Now, we realize the gut microbiome is a functional ecosystem that supports our basic concept of health. As new information and technologies are being released, we get to assemble new, more effective, layers of support. While testing allows us to add an educated, systematic structure to improving gut health which quickens the process and allows for a more targeted approach.
However, I still find that supporting the basic habits of digestion and nutrient-dense eating is essential. This foundation allows the foundation of health and wellness everybody strives for to be covered.
(Looking for a quick read? See the short version at the end.)
What is gut microbiome testing?
Gut tests are stool tests 💩. It is fairly simple, especially since this is something that you actually do on a regular basis anyway. If you don’t poop on a regular basis then you might want to skip reading and sign up for coaching now. The world is a better place when everyone poops regularly.
Where can I get a gut test?
There are numerous gut tests on the market that consumers can purchase and do at home. You can also get a gut test from your doctor. The main question that needs to be answered about gut testing – does the test give you the information that you are looking for? Every test provides slightly different information.
The other thing that is important, is to know that the results may not be easy for a consumer to benefit from unless they know how to read and what to do with the results. Finding a practitioner that can work through the test with you is a better use of your money and time than trying to figure it out yourself and then not get the results you want.
What will a gut test show me?
Increasing research shows that your gut microbiome produces metabolites that play a key role in maintaining overall health.
My “Go With Your Gut” program uses the GutScan test from Vitract. This test provides a comprehensive analysis of your gut microbiome diversity and composition.
The GutScan gut test reveals:
• Microbiome diversity scores (higher diversity typically correlates with better health)
• Beneficial bacteria levels that support digestion, immunity, and metabolism
• Potentially harmful bacteria that may be contributing to inflammation or digestive issues
• Ratios of key bacterial families associated with weight management and metabolic health
• Personalized dietary and lifestyle recommendations based on your unique microbiome profile
Are gut microbiome tests worth it?
It depends what you are looking for.
If you are looking for information to help guide food choices that support optimal gut function, then a gut microbiome test will be beneficial for you.
However, at-home gut tests do not diagnose disease. This is where you will need to go to your primary care doctor.
What You’ll Discover from Gut Microbiome Testing
Your body is connected in amazing ways.
Gut testing allows you a peak into the microbiome activity. It can show where neurotransmitters are low, metabolites that influence inflammation, how capable your gut is at digesting dairy, whether you are a meat eater or a vegan (yes, you already know this but did you know that your microbiome expresses itself in a different way for those who eat meat vs those who don’t?) It can also show how much short-chain fatty acid production your microbiome supports and in what proportions.
When you invest in my “Go With Your Gut” program, you get :
- gut test via Vitract GutScan test ($275 value)
- my Rs protocol to improve GI tract functioning
- your personalized plan from the results of your microbiome test
- a 60 minute 1:1 coaching session with me to explain the results of the gut test and show you how to apply the upgrades for long term improvement
Don’t let another day go by. Get your gut test. Get your plan. And get back to optimal health.
Who Should Consider Gut Microbiome Testing?
Those suffering with :
Digestive health
Imbalances in the gut microbiome can drive symptoms such as bloating, gas, constipation, diarrhea, and food sensitivities.
Symptoms such as: gas, bloating, stomach discomfort, nausea, occasional heartburn, diarrhea, constipation, sugar cravings, food sensitivities.
The gut microbiome is a contributing factor to these symptoms and finding out the microbes that are playing with your digestive health
Immunity
Symptoms such as: increased sensitivity/intolerance to multiple foods, fatigue, brain fog, skin conditions, slow recovery from illness or infections, and autoimmune challenges.
Your gut microbiome directly influences immune system function. Immune cells line the mucosal barrier of the the GI tract.
Sleep
Symptoms such as: trouble falling asleep, restless sleep, waking unrested, daytime sleepiness.
Your gut microbiome is essential in regulating the body’s circadian rhythm, the internal biological clock that helps regulate our sleep-wake cycle, hormone production, and other physiological processes. Your gut microbiome also produces neurotransmitters and hormones that influence your circadian rhythm, such as serotonin for regulating sleep and mood.
Cardiovascular
Symptoms such as: high cholesterol, leg discomfort, headaches, limited physical activity, fatigue.
The microbiome influences cardiovascular health by regulating inflammation, cholesterol metabolism, blood pressure, and vascular function. While many people think of simply managing their cholesterol to improve their cardiovascular health, many factors are actually at play, including oxidative stress, endothelial function, kidney function, and vitamin and mineral status.
Oral health
Symptoms such as: plaque formation on your teeth, bad breath, bleeding gums, mouth sores, gum sensitivity, tooth sensitivity.
Oral health impacts systems beyond the mouth and is intricately connected to your cardiovascular, immune, bone, and brain health.
Metabolic health
Symptoms such as: weight gain, inability to lose weight, trouble maintaining a healthy weight, poor blood sugar control.
The gut microbiome plays a crucial role in producing and metabolizing various hormones and neurotransmitters that regulate metabolism, including leptin, ghrelin, and serotonin. The microbiome also can influence the breakdown and absorption of dietary nutrients such as carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.
Mental health and cognitive function
Symptoms such as: brain fog, poor concentration, memory problems, confusion, feelings of anxiousness, feeling down, mood swings, irritability.
Our gut microbiome helps in the development of our brain, nervous system, and neurological functions, including mood and memory. I design nutrition recommendations to boost brain health and support cognitive function and mood.
Physical performance
Symptoms such as: fatigue, weakness, low stamina & endurance, not wanting to do things.
I’ve Never Heard
I’ve never heard a client say, “it’s okay, take as long as you want to help me improve my symptoms.” Everyone wants to feel better and reduce their unwanted symptoms as quickly as possible. I’ve found that gut microbiome testing has the ability to facilitate that request. And that is why I make it a foundational part of my coaching system. To get you quicker answers and quicker solutions to what you are suffering with.
