Microbiome Test (Advanced)
£420£399
FREE Delivery on all orders
Discover how your gut health looks with TESTme's Microbiome Test Advanced Kit. This comprehensive at-home stool test provides a detailed analysis of your gut bacteria, identifying both beneficial and harmful strains. Included with this test is our comprehensive microbial screen for parasites and pathogenic bacteria. With free shipping both ways and results delivered in just three weeks -taking control of your gut health has never been easier.
Gut Microbiome Test Advanced
Your Gut, Uncovered – What’s Really Going On Inside and What we Test for:
- SCFA Producers – Gut microbes that produce short-chain fatty acids, which support gut lining, reduce inflammation, and fuel healthy cells.
- Inflammation Index – A marker of how likely your gut environment is to promote or reduce inflammation in the body.
- Immunity – How well your gut microbes support your immune system’s ability to defend and repair.
- Sleep – The gut’s role in producing and regulating sleep-related hormones like melatonin and serotonin.
- Protein Absorption – How effectively your gut breaks down and absorbs proteins from food.
- Fat Absorption – Your ability to digest and absorb healthy fats needed for energy, hormones, and brain health.
- Carbohydrate Absorption – How well your body processes carbs, affecting energy, weight, and blood sugar.
- Mood & Mental Health – How your gut influences brain chemicals that affect mood, like serotonin and dopamine.
- Autoimmunity – How gut imbalances may trigger or worsen autoimmune conditions by affecting immune tolerance.
- Detoxification – The gut’s role in helping the body clear out toxins through digestion and elimination.
- Stress Resilience – How well your gut supports your nervous system’s ability to handle stress.
- Longevity – Gut health’s connection to ageing, cell repair, and long-term wellbeing.
- Bloating / Gas – What your microbiome can tell you about fermentation, digestion, and symptoms like wind or discomfort.
- Bowel Habits – Gut patterns related to constipation, diarrhoea, urgency, or regularity.
- Vitamin Absorption – How effectively your body can absorb essential vitamins like B12, K, and folate
- Insulin Balance – How your gut microbes influence blood sugar control and insulin sensitivity.
- Histamine Index – How your gut handles histamine, which can impact allergies, headaches, and skin issues.
- Fitness – How your gut supports physical performance, recovery, and endurance.
- ADHD – Links between gut health and focus, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
- ASD – The possible connections between gut health and autism spectrum traits, including mood and behaviour.
About this test
TESTme Health – The only gut microbiome test which gives a complete picture of your gut health by analysing 2,000 different bacteria types which are key to your health.
Using NGS-based shotgun metagenome sequencing, your simple at-home stool swab is sent to our UK lab for analysis to identify microbiome imbalances. Lab processing takes 15 working days, and with first-class Royal Mail delivery, you can expect your results in around 3 weeks from the date you take and post your sample. (This test must be returned to our labs within 30 days of purchase).
Our gut microbiome is a diverse community of microorganisms which includes bacteria, fungi, virus’s, pathogens and food particles, all of which inhabit out gastrointestinal tract. These microorganisms play a crucial role in various physiological processes including digestion, metabolism, protection against pathogens as well as hormone, immune and energy regulation.
Our gut microbiome is shaped by factors like diet, genetics, lifestyle, and environmental exposures. Understanding how to support a balanced microbiome can play a key role in our overall health, wellbeing, and longevity.
Addressing gut imbalances can help reduce the risk and severity of associated health conditions such as dysbiosis, IBS* IBD, metabolic disorders, autoimmune diseases, and food intolerances. When harmful bacteria outnumber beneficial ones, they can damage the mucosal lining of the gut. This weakens the structural integrity of the digestive system, allowing pathogens, viruses, toxins, and undigested food particles to pass into the bloodstream. This places additional strain on the immune system, and if left unaddressed, can contribute to the development of chronic health conditions over time.
During menopause** microbiome imbalances can also impact women’s health, worsening symptoms such as:
- Hot flushes
- Mood swings
- Vaginal dryness
- Sleep disturbance
- Weight gain due to poor metabolism
- Increased risk of type 2 diabetes
- Increased risk of cardiovascular disease
Given the microbiome is also a regulator of our hormones and determines around 70% of our immune triggers, this can also play a part in heightening menopause symptoms.
Studies have shown, that when oestrogen levels drop (usually during menopause), microbiome diversity reduces and causes gut dysbiosis. The lack of oestrogen has been shown to increase E.Coli and proteobacteria, and decrease b-glucuronidase. Decreased lactobacillus has also been shown to have a direct effect on the vaginal epithelium, which causes more vaginal dryness and recurrent urinary infections.
Autism***
There is growing research exploring the links between Autism and the gut microbiome. However, the area is very complex and should consider multiple factors:
- Gut brain axis: When your gut is out of balance, it can reduce metabolites such as dopamine and serotonin (neurotransmitters). These are chemical messengers which help nerve cells in the brain and body communicate. Dopamine is linked to motivation, reward, and focus, while serotonin plays a big role in mood, sleep, and digestion.
- Lower gut diversity typically found in autistic children vs neurotypical individuals
- How microbiome imbalances can contribute to immune disregulation and inflammation in autistic individuals
- How autistic individuals may experienc increased digestive issures which can contribute to behavioural symptoms associated with autism
- Consumption of regular prebiotics and probiotics to help alleviate symptoms
Depression****
There is growing evidence of a strong link between the gut microbiome and depression. Our microbiome produces key neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, around 90% of which is made in the gut. These play a major role in regulating mood and hormones.
More importantly we also have the gut brain axis, which is served by the Vegus nerve, where signals are sent from the gut to the brain. Imbalances can impair this communication pathway and therefore influence mood or behaviour.
The gut plays a key role in hormone regulation including cortisol (the hormone which controls our response to stress). When the gut is out of balance, it can make us more vulnerable to stress. The gut is also heavily involved in the metabolism of vitamins and minerals which is essential for brain health. So, if the microbiome is impaired, it can affect both brain function and mood regulation.
What does the science tell us?
Following a personalised microbiome rebalancing guide can help you naturally restore balance in your gut. These protocols have been shown to improve symptoms in as little as six weeks. Published studies using our gut microbiome test have reported the following improvements:
- 83% improvement in constipation symptoms*****
- 82% improvement in IBS symptoms******
- 63% increase in energy levels
- 42% improvement in sleep disorders
- 18% improvement in overall microbiome diversity
- On average patients reported 7.2kg of weight loss
Symptoms
A gut microbiome imbalance can have far-reaching effects on the entire body, influencing hormones, immune function, digestion, mental health, and nearly every other organ system. Because the gut plays a central role in regulating inflammation, nutrient absorption, and neurotransmitter production, an imbalance can manifest in a vast array of symptoms.
Common signs of gut microbiome disbyosis include:
- Digestive issues: Bloating (most common), gas, constipation, diarrhea, acid reflux, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Autoimmune Conditions: MS, Lupus, Psoraisis, Coeliac, Hashimotos, IBD and many more.
- Hormonal imbalances: Irregular menstrual cycles, worsened PMS symptoms, thyroid dysfunction, or adrenal fatigue
- Skin problems: Acne, eczema, rosacea, or chronic rashes
- Mental health concerns: Anxiety, depression, brain fog, mood swings, or difficulty concentrating
- Weakened immunity: Frequent colds, infections, or autoimmune flare-ups
- Food sensitivities: Increased reactions to certain foods, unexplained allergies, or inflammation after eating
- Metabolic issues: Unexplained weight gain or difficulty losing weight, insulin resistance, or cravings for sugar and processed foods
By testing and addressing gut imbalances through dietary adjustments, probiotics, prebiotics, and lifestyle changes, you can significantly improve overall health, enhance energy levels, stabilise mood, and reduce chronic symptoms. A balanced gut microbiome is foundational to long-term well-being.
Our comprehensive microbiome test leaves no stone unturned. We don’t just identify problematic bacteria, we provide you with a personalised action plan to restore balance and get to the root of the problem.
Research shows that imbalances in your gut microbiome can directly trigger a range of symptoms. Our test goes beyond surface-level analysis, giving you clear insights and targeted solutions to support long-term wellness.
Core Metrics
What we Measure:
- Microbiome Diversity (2,000 bacteria) – Shannon Index
- Dysbiosis Index
- Antibiotic Degradation (damage)
- 17 Significant Bacteria
- Gut Interaction Index (see opposite)
- 6 Fungi
- 5 Parasites
- 9 Pathogenic Bacteria
- 6 Viruses
- 2 Archaea (SIBO and Immune markers)
Gut Health Axes
- Gut-Brain Axis
- Gut-Skin Axis
- Gut Thyroid Axis
- Gut-Metabolism Axis
- Gut-Heart Axis
- Gut-Liver Axis
- Gut-Joint Axis
- Gut-Eye Axis
- Gut-Hormone Axis
- Gut-Lung Axis
Why Choose TESTme?
Our Microbiome test is the most in-depth in the UK, giving you a clear picture of what’s going on inside your digestive tract.
We look at the specific bacteria living in your gut and connect them to things like common symptoms, health conditions, and how you’re feeling day to day.
This isn’t just your average check-up. We dig deeper to find out what might be throwing things off balance.
What you get: a simple, easy-to-follow report and a personalised plan made just for you — so you can feel better, take charge of your health, and know exactly what your gut’s been trying to tell you.
Partnering with the UK and World’s Leading Laboratories
Across the UK and Europe, we collaborate with experts in Life Sciences and Microbiome research ensuring cutting-edge advancements in gut health testing.
For our Gut Microbiome testing, we collaborate with our UK based laboratory which conducts rigorous testing with results delivered in just 3-4 weeks.
Our labs are at the forefront of innovation, delivering industry-led microbiome testing to the highest clinical standards.
Our laboratory tests generate thousands of complex data points.
Understanding this data, and transforming it into key health insights is where our AI based health reporting tool comes in.
Our test reports utilise a unique bioinformatics global database of over 150,000 microbiome samples, and references more than 150 published research studies.
Trusted and utilised by:
• Nutritional Therapists
• Functional Medicine Practitioners
• Naturopathic Practitioners
• Nutritionists & Dieticians
• Sports Nutritionists
• Premier League Football Teams
• Gastrointestinal Doctors
• Colonic Practitioners
How long for results
Expect your results in around 3-4 weeks from the time of posting – Why so long?
All bacteria in the intestines are analysed one by one, up to the genus level. The genetic structures of these bacteria are then examined in detail.
This process takes 15 working days in the laboratory. Allowing for sample transport via Royal Mail, you can expect results in 3-4 weeks from the date of taking and posting your sample.
Simple Stool Sample
Laboratory analysis
Fully accredited Lab
Testing Tips – A Quick Guide
How to Take a Microbiome Test
Our Microbiome Test is a simple at-home kit which is sent straight to your door. You collect your sample using a quick stool swab – no mess, no fuss, just a clean collection using toilet paper. Then pop it in the prepaid packaging and send it off to our UK based Lab. Easy peasy!
- This test is not suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, it’s an ideal tool to use before pregnancy to help balance and restore your microbiome, supporting both your health and the health of your baby’s from the start.
- Minimum age: 5 years and over
- Antibiotics: Complete any course and wait 2 weeks before taking your sample
- Stop using any prebiotics or probiotics for 3 days prior to taking your sample
- NSAID’s: Stop taking any anti inflammatory medications for a week before taking your sample
- If you have been hospitalised or had a colonoscopy or endoscopy, please wait 1 week
Science
The Science Bit!
Explore our research and data to better understand gut health. Learn how your microbiome affects digestion, immunity, and overall well-being.
Through studies, key findings, and valuable insights, you’ll gain the knowledge to take control of your health. A balanced gut influences everything from hormones and weight – to mood, brain function, and everything inbetween. Testing your unique microbiome is the first step to helping you feel your best every day..
How to Get Your Test
Your Gut Microbiome test delivered
Order online and we’ll post your kit first class to your home.
Free Delivery
Take the test and post your sample
Carefully follow the instructions and post your sample to our labs.
View a Sample Report
See how your results will look with our Microbiome Sample Report
Get your results within 3-4 weeks
Results delivered by email, via our practitioner client portal
What’s included
- Sterile Cotton Swab
- Screw top tube containing a DNA Stabiliser
- Biohazard specimen transport Bag
- Full Instructions
- Self addressed bag – For returning your sample
- Full report & analysis
- No subscriptions
Iain Gallacher September 24
I’ve had gut health issues on and off for ages and after no luck from GP appointments, I knew I needed to take matters into my own hands.
This was easier said than done with lots of companies over-promising and under-delivering. I ended up pressing pause on finding a solution.
After a good friend passed on Iona’s details raving about the service, I instantly knew this was THE solution.
From my first point of contact, Iona was professional and friendly but more importantly empathetic and charismatic. The process is simple and you can tell Iona has put a lot of thought into streamlining the service.
Iona posted a test out to my home address and then once completed, I shipped to a lab for processing. The results came back quickly and detailed what foods were problematic and what foods weren’t.
This was exactly what I was looking for and what I tried to find for years. I can now look ahead and plan meals that won’t affect the rest of my day, my mood, my lifestyle.
Iona may just say she’s “doing her job” but she goes above and beyond to help her clients get back to feeling good and gaining some clarity over issues they’ve probably pushed aside in their busy lives.
If you’ve suffered with gut health please contact Iona today – highly recommend her and the service she provides!!
Read more reviews on Trustpilot and google.
Alyson October 24
I went on a return trip to TESTme in Sept24 with my husband as he was having health problems. Hoping Iona can sort him out as she did me!
I went to Iona in June 2023 (over a year ago) suffering from migraines every fortnight which lasted 2-3 days. Having had every avenue explored by the doctor, including a brain scan, being told it is probably my age, etc., a friend then recommended Iona at TESTme Health. As anyone who suffers from migraines knows, one will try anything to stop them. Following the consultation and allergy test with Iona, I immediately went home and changed my diet – no dairy, no eggs and no gluten. To say it has been life-changing is an understatement. I’ve not had a migraine since – have had the odd headache when I didn’t read the labels and consumed something which contained gluten. I am fine with eggs now, having introduced them into my diet after 6mths. I’ve had dairy these past 4mths but only if I am out in a restaurant. Definitely not gluten as that is the root cause of my migraines from the one or two pitfalls I’ve had since June 2023. Well worth the trip and money which is why I have my husband attending this month so sort his health problems out too.
Jayne Macritchie Jan 25
We went to visit Iona at TESTme and have never looked back!
Both of us came away with a huge amount of knowledgeable, and were very well advised on how to approach our eating habits going forward.
The advice we received has been absolutely priceless, both of us, now 9 months on feel so so much better, in our physical bodies, our gut health and energy levels, along with one thing in particular.. My husband had very bad asthma since he was a young child and needed inhalers constantly, he now barely even uses one, this is life changing for him and i no longer hear him wheezing, coughing etc.
He also had huge issues with stomach cramps to the extreme that he had to take a lot of time off work during these spells. This has all stopped, thanks to Iona’s testing and advice.
I had a constant cough, sore joints and a constant sore tummy, this has now all cleared up, i had a feeling what i was eating had a lot to do with it but no idea where to start on getting it sorted out. Again, thanks to Iona’s advice, those issues have cleared up and i now know what to do to keep myself in better health.
We cannot recommend Iona enough to anyone who is thinking of going to get checked. HONESTLY those little niggly things your Dr isn’t getting to the bottom of, could be food related, go book a test now!
FAQ’s For Microbiome Test (Advanced)
1. Why is my digestion always off?
An imbalanced gut microbiome can lead to digestive issues like bloating (most common), constipation, diarrhoea, and food sensitivities. The microbiome test helps identify imbalances, allowing you to take targeted steps to restore gut health.
2. Can my gut bacteria affect my mood?
Yes! The gut and brain are closely linked through the gut-brain axis. An unhealthy microbiome can contribute to anxiety, depression, and brain fog by affecting neurotransmitter production and increasing inflammation.
3. Can an unhealthy microbiome make me gain weight?
Yes, certain bacteria in the gut influence metabolism, appetite, and fat storage. An imbalance in gut bacteria can lead to cravings, poor digestion, and inflammation, which may contribute to weight gain.
4. Will this test tell me which foods are best for me?
Yes, your results include a personalized nutrition plan based on your unique microbiome. By identifying which bacteria are thriving or lacking, the test helps guide dietary choices to support optimal gut health.
5. Can an imbalanced microbiome cause skin problems?
Yes, poor gut health is often linked to skin conditions like acne, eczema, and rosacea. When the microbiome is out of balance, inflammation and toxin buildup can manifest through skin issues.
6. How does my gut health affect my immune system?
Around 70% of your immune system is in your gut! A healthy microbiome helps protect against infections, regulates inflammation, and supports overall immune function. If your gut bacteria are imbalanced, you may experience frequent colds, allergies, or autoimmune symptoms.
7. Can poor gut health make me feel tired all the time?
Yes, an unhealthy microbiome can impact energy levels by affecting nutrient absorption, increasing inflammation, and disrupting sleep. A gut imbalance can leave you feeling fatigued, sluggish, and mentally foggy.
**Disclaimers**
*IBS – Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common condition which affects the digestive system. It causes symptoms like stomach cramps, bloating, diarrhoea and constipation. These tend to come and go over time, and can last for days, weeks or months at a time. It’s usually a lifelong problem. It can be very frustrating to live with and can have a big impact on everyday life.
**Menopause – The gut microbiome an female health: Rugaiyyah Siddiqui, Zinb Makhlouf. Ahmad M. Alharbi.Hasan Alfahemi and Naveed Ahmad Khan, 2222
***Autism – Role of the gut microbiome in autism spectrum disorders, 2019, Toby Pulikkan, Agnisrota Mazumder and Tony Grace
****Depression – Gut microbiome in atypical depression. :Lanne Busch a b c. Sagnik Roy a.Dario Lucas Helbing d e f g. Leila Colic d e i. Nils Opel d e h. Bianca Besteher d e. Martin Walter d e h I j. Michael Bauer b c. Alexander Refisch 2024
***** Efficacy of AI-Assisted personalised microbiome modulation by diet in functional constipation: A randomised controlled trial – Nacive Ci gdem Arslan 1. Avcan Gundo gdu 2. Varol Tunali 3.4. O Guzhan Hakan Topgul 1. Damla Bevazgul 5. And Ozkan Ufuk Nalbanto glu 6.
****** Artificial Intelligence-based personalised diet: A clinical study for irritable bowel syndrome – Tarkan Karakan, Avcan Gundogdu, Hakan Alagozlu, Nergiz Ekmen. Seckin Ozgul. Varol Tunali. Mehmet Hora. Damla Bevazgul and O. Ufuk Nalbantoglu