WHICH MICROBIOME TEST?

There seem to be a massive number of microbiome (stool analysis) tests available online and recently more clients have come to me with results of a stool test they have ordered themselves. Unfortunately, these tests often don't give us much actionable information, just broad information on the commonly found bacteria in the gut and advice around 'increasing microbial diversity', increasing fibre and using prebiotics (such general advice can cause a flare up of symptoms if there is a small intestinal bacterial overgrowth present).

Whilst this in itself can sometimes be useful, if you are going to spend money on a stool test, it is much better to choose one that will give you proper insights into what's going on. Invivo recently released their 'MetaXplore' test which looks as the entire microbiome (around 28,000 species) instead of just a list of 30-40. It also has a function to group these it microbes that secrete histamine, LPS (inflamatory substances which increase leaky gut), methane (linked with constipation & gas) hydrogen sulphide producers (inflammatory gas, linked with SIBO).

There are other tests on the market which also give valuable information on various types of microbe such as the GI Effects (Genova Diagnostics), this test also has a smaller panel for those on the budget.

If you are interested to know more about testing or even how to improve your digestion without testing, please book a 15 minute free consultation here: https://www.citylifenutrition.co.uk/booking-calendar/book-your-15-minute-free-consultation