A female holding a smiley face in front of her gut

Discover what’s living in your gut and how it affects your body, mood, and energy – all from the comfort of your home.

Gut Testing

Discover what’s living in your gut and how it affects your body, mood, and energy – all from the comfort of your home.

Gut Testing explained by a nutritionist:

Gut microbiome testing is an advanced method used to assess the composition and balance of microorganisms in the digestive system. These microbes play a vital role in key bodily functions, including digestion, immune regulation, nutrient production and even communication with the brain. By understanding the makeup of the gut microbiome, this testing provides a deeper view into an individual’s internal ecosystem.

While not a diagnostic tool, microbiome testing can support the management of various health concerns that may be linked to gut imbalances, such as digestive discomfort, low energy, skin conditions and immune challenges. It enables a more personalised approach to wellness by helping guide targeted nutrition and lifestyle strategies that support overall health from the inside out.

Key Takeaways

Here are the five biggest takeaways from this page about gut microbiome testing:

By analysing the balance and diversity of microorganisms in your digestive system, gut testing offers insights into how your gut may be affecting digestion, immunity, mood, and overall well-being.
Shotgun Metagenomic Sequencing, 16S rRNA, qPCR, faecal calprotectin and breath tests all provide varying levels of detail and serve different roles. Vivere uses Shotgun Metagenomic Sequencing.
Most tests, including those offered by Vivere, involve a simple stool sample collection. Other types, like breath tests, are also non-invasive and painless, however, they do not offer the same level of insight.
Backed by advanced science and AI, Vivere’s testing provides deep, tailored analysis along with practical, personalised dietary recommendations.
By identifying imbalances early, gut testing can help manage issues such as bloating, fatigue, and skin problems, and also reduce the risk of chronic conditions like type 2 diabetes and inflammatory bowel disease.

What is gut testing?

Gut testing, also known as microbiome testing, is a method used to assess the health of your gut by analysing a stool sample. The test looks at the types and amounts of microorganisms, such as bacteria, fungi and viruses, living in your digestive system.

The aim is to understand how balanced and diverse your gut microbiome is. A healthy gut typically contains a variety of helpful microbes that support digestion, immunity and overall well-being. If the balance is off, it may be linked to issues such as bloating, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), food intolerances or even problems with mood and energy levels.

Gut testing can help identify these imbalances and can be used to guide dietary or lifestyle changes to support better gut health.

Why is testing your gut health important?

Testing your gut health is important because the gut microbiome has a significant impact on your overall health. The gut is home to trillions of microorganisms that play a key role in digestion, immunity and even mental well-being.

A healthy and balanced gut microbiome can help your body absorb nutrients more effectively, support your immune system and may contribute to improved mood and brain function. On the other hand, an imbalance can be linked to a range of issues such as bloating, constipation, diarrhoea, inflammation and even anxiety or low mood.

By testing your gut health, you can identify any imbalances that may be affecting how you feel. The results can offer useful insights and may help guide changes to your diet or lifestyle that support better gut and overall health.

Who should consider taking a gut test?

A gut test may be helpful for anyone who wants a clearer understanding of their digestive health, especially if they are experiencing ongoing or unexplained symptoms.

You might consider taking a gut microbiome test if you have:

Persistent digestive issues such as bloating, constipation, diarrhoea, or discomfort
A diagnosed condition like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO), or an autoimmune disorder
Unexplained fatigue, skin problems, or changes in mood that could be linked to gut health
An interest in a more personalised approach to health and wellbeing

Even if you don’t have a condition or symptoms, a gut test can offer useful insight into how your digestive system is functioning and can help guide tailored dietary or lifestyle changes.

The different types of gut tests

There are several types of gut tests available, each using different methods to analyse the health of your gut [1]. The most common types include:

Shotgun Metagenomic Sequencing Tests

Shotgun Metagenomic Sequencing is an advanced method used to analyse the gut microbiome in high detail. It works by examining all the genetic material found in a stool sample, not just that of bacteria.

This means it can identify a wide range of microorganisms living in your gut, including bacteria, fungi, viruses and other microbes. Unlike simpler tests, it can detect these organisms down to the species or even strain level.

Because of its high level of accuracy and detail, Shotgun Metagenomic Sequencing provides a much clearer picture of your gut health and how your microbiome is functioning. This method is particularly useful if you're looking for more personalised and meaningful insights to guide your health choices. It is also the method of testing that Vivere uses in our tests.

16S rRNA tests

16S rRNA testing is a common method used to study the gut microbiome, focusing specifically on bacteria. It works by analysing a gene called the 16S ribosomal RNA gene, which is found in all bacteria but not in other microbes like fungi or viruses [2].

This test helps identify the main types of bacteria present in your gut and gives a general overview of their abundance. It's a useful tool for spotting dominant bacterial groups and detecting imbalances. However, it has some limitations. It usually cannot identify bacteria at species or strain level and it misses other types of microbes altogether.

These tests generally provide less detailed insight than methods like Shotgun Metagenomic Sequencing, which analyses the entire genetic material in a stool sample.

It is worth noting that many providers of gut microbiome tests use 16S rRNA. Vivere does not. 16S rRNA is considered to be an out-of-date form of test when compared to Shotgun Metagenomic Sequencing.

qPCR (Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction)

qPCR, or Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction, is a targeted testing method used to detect specific microorganisms in the gut. It works by looking for the genetic material of particular microbes.

This type of test is especially useful if you're trying to confirm the presence or absence of a specific bacteria, such as one linked to an infection or gut-related condition.

However, qPCR has its limitations. It only looks for the microbes it is programmed to detect, so it won’t give you a full overview of your gut microbiome. It’s not suitable for broader analysis or for exploring the diversity of all the bacteria, fungi and viruses in your digestive system.

Faecal calprotectin

Faecal calprotectin testing is a non-invasive test that measures the level of a protein called calprotectin in a stool sample. This protein is released by white blood cells when there is inflammation in the intestines.

High levels of calprotectin in the stool can be a sign of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. The test is often used to help distinguish between inflammatory conditions and non-inflammatory issues like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), which typically do not raise calprotectin levels [3].

Breath tests

Breath gut testing is a non-invasive method used to help diagnose certain gut issues, such as Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO). The test works by measuring the levels of gases, mainly hydrogen and methane, in your breath [4].

These gases are produced when bacteria in your digestive system ferment undigested carbohydrates. If too much of these gases is detected, or if they appear too early during the test, it can indicate that bacteria are growing in the wrong part of the gut, such as the small intestine.

Breath testing is often used when someone has symptoms like bloating, excess wind, abdominal discomfort, or changes in bowel habits and SIBO or other similar conditions are suspected.

What is included in a Vivere gut microbiome test kit?

The Vivere gut microbiome test kit offers a comprehensive analysis of your gut microbiome, aiming to identify imbalances in the types and quantities of microorganisms present. This assessment helps you understand how these imbalances may impact your overall health, highlighting potential risks and providing personalised insights. Our kit includes:

At-Home Collection Kit: Includes all necessary materials and clear instructions to safely collect your sample at home.
Pre-Paid Return Envelope: A pre-addressed, postage-paid envelope to conveniently send your sample to the laboratory for analysis.
Laboratory Analysis: Cutting-edge, in-depth microbiome testing to accurately analyse the composition of microorganisms in your gut.
Personalised Report: A detailed, easy-to-understand report outlining the findings of your microbiome analysis.
Dietary Recommendations: Fully personalised suggestions to help restore gut balance and support long-term health and longevity.
Personal Dashboard: A secure, user-friendly dashboard to view your results and access deeper insights.

What do you get in your gut report?

Your gut report offers a detailed, easy-to-understand breakdown of your gut health, based on advanced testing using shotgun metagenomic sequencing. Here's what’s included:

Gut Scores

Receive a range of scores that reflect different aspects of your gut health, from microbiome diversity to how well your body breaks down certain foods. These scores help you understand how your gut is functioning and where there may be room for improvement.

Taxonomic Analysis

A comprehensive analysis of the bacteria living in your gut. Unlike basic tests, the shotgun metagenomic sequencing method we use can identify bacteria at a much deeper level, giving a more complete picture of your microbiome.

Important Bacteria

Learn which bacteria are playing a key role in your gut health. Your report highlights the presence of specific strains and what they mean for your digestion, immunity, metabolism and more.

Disease Risk Profiles

Based on your microbiome, you’ll see if your gut health shows similarities to profiles linked to certain conditions such as IBS, skin problems, or heart health issues.

Personalised Food Recommendations

Discover which foods may support the modulation of your microbiome and which ones might be best to avoid based on how their nutrient profiles impact your microbiome.

Personalised Supplement Recommendations

Receive tailored advice on supplements that could help balance your microbiome, including suggestions for prebiotics, probiotics and nutrients you may benefit from.

What makes Vivere gut microbiome tests unique?

With so many tests available, it’s important to evaluate what sets one apart from the rest. While many tests offer basic analysis, Vivere's gut microbiome test stands out for its advanced science, technology and personalised approach.

When choosing a microbiome test, it’s crucial to consider factors such as the depth of scientific research behind the test, the technology used to process and interpret the data and the quality of insights provided to guide your health journey. Vivere’s gut microbiome test is designed not only to provide thorough, evidence-based results but also to offer guidance tailored to your unique needs. Here are the key highlights that make Vivere’s test unique:

Scientifically Grounded Insights: Offers the most in-depth analysis of your gut microbiome, grounded in cutting-edge research and technology.
Empowered with AI: Utilises advanced AI to analyse and leverage all available data, ensuring every possible insight is used to benefit your health.
Fully Personalised Results: Assesses each bacteria-nutrient connection to deliver highly tailored recommendations for your unique microbiome.
Clear Dietary Guidance: Directs a clear path for optimising your diet, with actionable steps on how to adjust your eating habits for better gut health.
Dedicated Support Team: A team of experts is available to guide you, help you understand your results, and provide continuous care tailored to your needs.

How can gut testing help to optimise your health and well-being?

Gut testing can help optimise your health by providing personalised insights into the balance of microorganisms in your digestive system [5]. These insights can highlight imbalances or deficiencies in beneficial bacteria, which may be affecting how well you digest food, absorb nutrients, or respond to certain foods. With this information, you can make more informed decisions about your diet and lifestyle helping to reduce symptoms such as bloating, constipation, or food intolerances whilst promoting better digestive health overall.

Away from everyday well-being, gut testing can help reduce the risk of long-term health issues [6]. Research suggests that a healthy gut microbiome is linked to a lower risk of chronic conditions such as type 2 diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease and obesity. By identifying potential problems early, gut testing allows for a more proactive approach to managing your health. Data from gut testing can be used by Vivere to provide you with tailored recommendations for diet, supplementation and lifestyle changes.

Gut Testing FAQS

Is gut testing safe?

Yes, gut testing is generally considered safe. Vivere tests involve collecting a stool sample at home, using our kit delivered to you. This process is simple, hygienic and poses no health risks.

Other forms of gut testing, such as breath tests, are also safe and painless. They involve drinking a special solution and breathing into a collection device with no physical risk involved.

While gut testing is safe, it’s important to choose a reputable provider. Choosing Vivere for your gut testing ensures you remain safe, whilst also receiving unparalleled levels of information and recommendations tailored to you.

Do I need to change my diet before a gut microbiome test?

In most cases, you don’t need to make major changes to your diet before a gut microbiome test. In fact, it's usually best to stick to your normal eating habits in the days leading up to the test. This helps ensure that the results reflect your typical gut microbiome, providing more accurate and useful insights into how your current lifestyle is affecting your gut health. Since diet has a strong influence on the composition and activity of the gut microbiome, even short-term changes (like veganism or only eating fast food) can affect the test results [7].

If you’re taking a gut microbiome test to understand how your current lifestyle is affecting your gut health, it's important to maintain your regular routine, including diet, for a few weeks before the test. This gives a more realistic picture of your gut’s current state, helping to guide any personalised recommendations accurately [8].

How is gut microbiome testing different from a blood test or allergy test?

Gut microbiome testing, blood tests and allergy tests all assess different aspects of your health, using different methods and providing different types of information. Gut microbiome testing focuses specifically on the composition and diversity of bacteria and other microorganisms in your digestive system.

In contrast, blood tests analyse the contents of your bloodstream. They can measure a number of things, such as hormone levels, nutrient deficiencies, markers of inflammation, or signs of infection. Blood tests are commonly used in routine health checks and for diagnosing medical conditions.

Allergy tests are designed to identify specific substances (allergens) that may be triggering allergic reactions. These tests can be done using a blood sample or through skin prick testing. They help diagnose allergies to foods, pollen, pet hair, or other common allergens.

Final Thoughts from Yusra

Gut microbiome testing offers a science-backed way to look beneath the surface and uncover insights that guide more effective, personalised care, taking the guesswork out of wellness. It’s like having a map of your inner world, helping to inform precise changes that support long-term health, energy and vitality. As research continues to reveal the microbiome’s wide-reaching impact, it’s increasingly clear that gut health plays a central role in how the entire body functions.

Regular testing is a proactive way to stay in tune with this vital internal ecosystem. Rather than waiting for symptoms to arise, routine gut assessments allow for early detection of shifts and imbalances, empowering individuals to make informed dietary and lifestyle adjustments before concerns progress. For those already experiencing symptoms or health problems, gut testing can help pinpoint underlying imbalances, offering a clearer path to addressing these issues more effectively.

It’s important to remember that the information on this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. It is vital to consult with a medical professional or nutritionist before making drastic changes to your lifestyle.

Become a member of Vivere today to receive the highest standard of gut microbiome test available, our easy-to-understand dashboard, and more.