What You'll Discover From Your Test

Here are the most common findings people discover when they test their microbiome, and what they mean for your health.

1

Low Bacterial Diversity

Very common

This is the most common finding. A healthy gut usually has a wide variety of bacteria. Low diversity can be linked to many health issues.

Associated With:

ObesityIBSIBDMetabolic issuesAutoimmune conditions

What You Can Do:

  • Eat a variety of different plant foods per week
  • Increase dietary fiber diversity
  • Consume fermented foods regularly
  • Reduce processed food intake
  • Take targeted probiotics
2

Dysbiosis - Gut Microbiota Imbalance

Common

An imbalance (especially too many Firmicutes compared to Bacteroidetes) is often seen in people with obesity or metabolic issues.

Associated With:

ObesityMetabolic syndromeType 2 diabetesCardiovascular issues

What You Can Do:

  • Increase whole grains and resistant starches
  • Reduce refined sugars and saturated fats
  • Add more plant-based proteins
  • Consider time-restricted eating
  • Increase physical activity
3

High Levels of Inflammatory Bacteria

Moderately common

Some bacteria are known to trigger inflammation. Finding elevated levels can explain chronic inflammation or autoimmune symptoms.

Associated With:

IBD (Crohn's, Ulcerative Colitis)Rheumatoid arthritisChronic fatigueAutoimmune conditionsAllergies

What You Can Do:

  • Follow anti-inflammatory diet
  • Increase omega-3 fatty acids
  • Consider elimination diet to identify triggers
  • Add anti-inflammatory supplements (curcumin, omega-3)
  • Reduce stress through mindfulness practices
4

Depleted Butyrate Producers

Common

Butyrate is a short-chain fatty acid that feeds the cells lining your colon and has anti-inflammatory effects. Low levels may contribute to gut issues.

Associated With:

IBSIBDLeaky gut syndromeColon health issuesChronic inflammation

What You Can Do:

  • Increase resistant starch intake (cooled potatoes, rice)
  • Eat more fiber-rich vegetables
  • Consider butyrate supplementation
  • Add prebiotic foods (Jerusalem artichokes, onions, garlic)
  • Consume fermented dairy if tolerated
5

Too Many Bad Bacteria

Less common, but significant

Sometimes harmful bacteria like C. difficile, certain E. coli strains, or Klebsiella show up. These can cause problems if they overgrow.

Associated With:

Chronic diarrheaRecurrent infectionsIBS symptomsWeakened immune function

What You Can Do:

  • Consult healthcare provider for treatment options
  • Consider antimicrobial herbs or medications
  • Support beneficial bacteria with probiotics
  • Follow gut-healing protocol
  • Address any immune system weaknesses
6

Low Akkermansia muciniphila

Increasingly recognized

This bacteria is associated with metabolic health and a healthy gut lining. Low levels are linked to obesity, diabetes, and inflammation.

Associated With:

ObesityType 2 diabetesMetabolic syndromeLeaky gutChronic inflammation

What You Can Do:

  • Increase polyphenol-rich foods (berries, green tea, dark chocolate)
  • Consume prebiotic fibers
  • Consider pomegranate or cranberry supplements
  • Support gut mucus layer with bone broth
  • Reduce inflammatory foods
7

Signs of SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth)

Moderate (often underdiagnosed)

While the test itself doesn't diagnose SIBO, patterns in the microbiome can suggest overgrowth in the small intestine, which may warrant further testing.

Associated With:

Chronic bloatingIBS-D or IBS-CFood intolerancesMalabsorptionChronic fatigue

What You Can Do:

  • Get breath test for definitive SIBO diagnosis
  • Consider low-FODMAP diet trial
  • Work with gastroenterologist or functional medicine practitioner
  • Address underlying motility issues
  • Consider antimicrobial treatment if confirmed

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