Gut health: is a microbiome test reliable?

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A balanced gut microbiome plays an important role when it comes to your physical and mental health. In fact, an abnormal composition of intestinal bacteria is linked to a whole range of diseases and conditions. Certain companies responded to this and developed test kits for your intestinal microbiome. But are they reliable?

Also read: The undeniable impact of our intestinal health on body and mind

Gut health: how does a microbiome test work?

Microbiome tests measure the amount and types of microbes, such as bacteria and viruses, in your gut through a stool sample. Ideally, a doctor will perform such a test, but it is also possible to map your intestinal microbiome via a self-test that you can perform at home.

To do this, you send a stool sample by post. A few days or weeks later you will receive online access to your file with extensive information about your intestinal bacteria. Some companies also provide tailor-made nutritional advice to improve your intestinal flora. A microbiome test usually costs between 100 and 200 euros.

Also read: The brain-gut axis (gut-brain axis): determines mood and behavior

Reliability self-test intestinal flora

Scientists want to warn the population against these types of tests. They give advice that has little scientific value. Some companies also use their customers’ data for research, for example to develop new medicines.

“The technology for researching bacteria is booming,” explains gastroenterologist Bas Oldenburg from UMC Utrecht. “We can now unravel the entire DNA of a person’s microbiome quite quickly and relatively cheaply. Billions of bacteria are identified in no time. The disadvantage is that so much information comes out that it is difficult to interpret it correctly. The billions of bacteria all release substances that influence each other and us.”

Moreover, there is no scientifically accepted definition of a ‘healthy’ microbiome: the microbiome is dynamic and changes often. “There is no clinical evidence that these products work,” adds nutritionist Arnaud Cocaul. “In addition to the high cost, these tests can also cause harm by convincing someone to delay medical care and replace prescription medications with supplements.”

Also read: Improving intestinal health with herbs and spices, is that possible?

American researchers from the University of Maryland even believe that consumers are deliberately misled by these types of tests. “For example, if a customer’s microbiome shares certain characteristics with those of patients in so-called ‘poor health’ – that depends on each company’s algorithms – the company can suggest to the patient to subscribe to their nutritional support services and order additional tests so that they can monitor their condition,” the researchers note. Moreover, the tests wrongly give the impression that they are regulated.

If you decide to do one yourself at home, make sure the company you order the kit from discloses important information, such as whether or not their methods are backed by scientific research. Also check what exactly is being researched and be sure to check the customer reviews. Be sure to discuss the results with your doctor before making any changes to your regular diet.

Also read: Can prebiotics improve mental well-being?

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