What is the Gut Microbiome?
The gut microbiome consists of microorganisms known as microbes and their genetic material in the intestinal tract. Microbes include tiny organisms, such as bacteria, fungi, parasites, and viruses. The microbiome contains both beneficial and potentially harmful (pathogenic) microbes. Most microbes are helpful or healthy and are essential to many bodily functions. However, some microbes are pathogenic and can lead to infections or diseases.
Usually, the body's immune system helps keep a balance of helpful and pathogenic bacteria in the body's normal human flora. However, if the immune system or "helpful" bacteria is compromised or weakened, pathogenic bacteria become elevated and spread, causing the individual to be more susceptible to disease.
What is the purpose of this test?
Order this GI Effects with Microbiomix Test Kit, which detects pathogenic or potentially pathogenic organisms such as parasites, bacteria, and yeast in a stool sample to assess the complete gut microbiome. Genova's GI Effects with Microbiomix Test Kit uses world-leading metagenomic analysis and interpretation technology to detect bacteria, fungi, protists, and archaea from a library containing 28,000 species.
Additionally, the GI Effects with Microbiomix Test Kit provides insight into the complete gut microbiome by offering the following:
- Increased species detection
- Deeper insight into the microbiome's function by assessing the genetic potential to form unique metabolites such as hexa-LPS, TMA, histamine, vitamin production, etc.
- Shannon Diversity Index
- Specific, actionable recommendations to help improve microbiome health
Accurate identification of potentially pathogenic species allows healthcare providers to choose an appropriate targeted treatment to resolve an infection. Targeted therapies such as antimicrobial, dietary, lifestyle, and supplementation interventions help to improve symptoms by controlling infections and preventing them from spreading.
In addition, individuals can choose either a one-day or three-day collection. Determination of one-day or three-day sample collection is based on the clinician's suspicion of parasitic infection. A one-day sample is likely adequate if there is no/low suspicion. If there is high suspicion, a three-day sample collection is optimal.
Don't hesitate to contact Walk-In Lab's Customer Service at 1-800-539-6119 if you are interested in add-on tests or a one-day or three-day sample collection, as additional fees may apply.
When should I order a GI Effects with Microbiomix Test Kit?
The GI Effects with Microbiomix helps evaluate patients with a clinical history representative of a gastrointestinal infection or dysbiosis. Individuals may use this profile to assess the effectiveness of treatment. Common symptoms associated with gastrointestinal disorders include:
- Gas
- Bloating
- Nausea
- Abdominal pain
- Indigestion
- Diarrhea
Additionally, due to the gut microbiome's impact on overall health, microbiome testing may also be ideal for patients with the following health conditions:
- Allergies or asthma
- Cardiovascular disease
- Mood disorders (i.e., depression)
- Autoimmune disease
- Metabolic diseases (i.e., insulin resistance, diabetes)
- Nutritional deficiencies
