Gut health tests (UK)

Here we look at some of the best microbiome tests available in the UK. These are essentially poo tests which analyse the microbes in your stool and potentially other factors in your stool also. (Please note that some of the links in this article are affiliate links.)

What is a stool test for?

A microbiome test analyses the array of microorganisms in your gut, mainly bacteria and fungi. By analysing these microorganisms in your stool sample, you will get a detailed look at the variety and numbers of microbes you’re hosting.

A gut health test can offer lots of useful insights. It sheds light on how the mix of these microbes affects your overall health and could be influencing various conditions such as digestive issues and more. You get a custom overview of your gut health, which can help you make specific changes in your diet and lifestyle to support a better balance of gut flora. Plus, the test might pinpoint particular bacterial groups that could be linked to long-term health issues, helping you to address them proactively.

How do stool tests work

Most gut health tests are easily done at home via the post. This makes them extremely convenient and private. In most cases you will never have to interact with anyone face to face.

You will normally receive a testing kit in the post with everything you will need. You will then extract a sample of your stool and send it back to the lab where they will analyse it. Following this you will usually receive a report by email which will explain the results of your test.

Cost of microbiome tests

The tests often do not come cheaply which is to be expected considering the scientific expertise and resources it takes to thoroughly analyse the array of microbes and other factors in your stool.

Tests range in how comprehensive they are and so do the costs. The more basic tests start at around £99. Packages which include after-test support go up to around £500. However, these packages can offer a remarkable amount of guidance and individual support for you. They will give you a very clear understanding of your gut health and an expert, evidence-based plan for it going forwards.

While these prices are not an insignificant amount of money, we believe the insights that can be gained from them are easily worth the money. The test will either uncover some health issues, let you know which factors can be improved or simply give you peace of mind that your gut is in good health.

It is an investment in your health which justifies the cost in our opinion.

Below we will look at a range of gut health test options.

Best affordable gut health test

GetTested Gut Microbiome Test Small

GetTested offers this at-home microbiome test (where you return a stool sample by post) for those looking for an insight into their gut health without outlaying a lot of money.

What the test covers

The test analyses 13 common bacteria, 4 yeasts and gives a pH value of your stool. This includes Escheria coli, Escherichia coli Biovar, Proteus, Klebsiella, Pseudomonas, Enterobacter, Serratia, Hafnia, Enterococcus, Bifidobacterium, Bacteroides, Lactobacillus, Clostridium, Candida spp, Candida albicans and Geotrichum candidum.

The report

The report should arrive within 10 business days. It is presented simply and uses colour coding so you can easily see where you fit in the normal range and where you don’t.

This report can then be discussed with your doctor to work through any issues discovered.

Price

At the time of writing (March 24) the price for the test was £99.

Best mid-range gut health test

Verisana Gut Flora & Biome Analysis test

Verisana is a respected German company which does extensive health tests.

This at-home test covers a huge array of gut health factors and gives a deep and easily understandable insight into the make up of your gut.

What the test covers

The test is comprehensive and covers a wide array of bacteria, fungi, yeasts and physiological biomarkers.

Specifically it analyses Escherichia coli, Proteus, Citrobacter, Klebsiella, other Enterobacteriaceae, Enterococci, Pseudomonas, Bacteroides, Bifidobacteria, Lactobacilli, Clostridia, Candida albicans, Candida species, Geotrichum candidum, yeast, Helicobacter pylori, pancreatic elastase 1, alpha-1-antitrypsin and secretory IgA.

It also tests for the pH of your stool.

The report

The report is easy to understand and colour coded to see if you fit in normal ranges.

Sample of the report

Each of the tested categories is explained simply and information is given as to what issues might arise if your levels are not normal. For example, for the category Lactobacilli the report states:

Lactobacilli are lactic acid forming bacteria, which produce large amounts of short chain fatty acids (SCFA). SCFAs lower the intestinal pH and thereby make the gut milieu acidic — unsuitable for microbial pathogens (e.g. yeasts). In addition, lactobacilli secrete antifungal and antimicrobial agents. Low levels of lactobacilli indicate disturbances of the intestinal flora.

Download a sample report of what you will receive.

Price

At the time of writing (March 24) the price for the test was £199.

Best comprehensive gut health test

Healthpath Ultimate Package

This package is for those who want more than just a gut health test and want expert support and guidance also.

What the test covers

The test itself is remarkably comprehensive. Healthpath claims to have the most comprehensive test in the UK which measures over 100 biomarkers.

Along with testing your microbiome make up of bacteria, fungi and yeasts, the test also:

• checks if you have leaky gut

• checks your immune response and inflammatory markers

• sees if your digestion is working well

• analyses parasites

• includes early bowel cancer detection

• analyses archaea

• analyses histamine, butyrate and hydrogen-sulphide-producing bacteria

Further support in the package

In contrast to other tests, your journey with Healthpath doesn’t end after receiving the report. There is a vast amount of support and guidance yet to come.

In the package you will get:

• a practitioner review of your test results and a personal video from them to explain the results

• a bespoke health plan. This is 12-week health plan based on your symptoms and results

• a personalised supplement plan in which a practitioner will select the best supplements to support your individual gut health

• a meal plan which includes shopping lists and recipes

• a symptom review in which a practitioner will review your symptom survey to ensure your health plan, supplement recommendations and analysis are tailored to you

• a health coaching call which is a 30-minute personal consultation with an experienced practitioner. This allows you to talk through your results, get 1-to-1 support and discuss next steps

As you can see, the amount of individual support offered is incredible and will leave you with all your questions answered and a path forward guided by experts.

Price

At the time of writing (March 24) the price for the Ultimate Package including everything above was £495. (However, they do have cheaper packages if you don’t need this level of support.)

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