Do I Need Microbiome Testing? Here at the Signs to Look Out For
By: Kelli Kieselbach
Microbiome and gut testing can be a powerful tool I use in my naturopathy clinic to help address complex health issues.
There’s a strong link between gut health and many chronic conditions, which may surprise some people, as the symptoms aren’t always digestive. In fact, research has shown that imbalances in the gut and microbiome can contribute to whole-body symptoms, including pain, fatigue, anxiety, immune dysregulation, as well as the more obvious signs like digestive discomfort.
What is the Microbiome and Why Does It Matter?
The microbiome refers to the vast community of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microbes, that live in and on the human body. The gut microbiome plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health by influencing digestion, nutrient absorption, brain and nervous system health and regulating the immune system. When the balance of these microorganisms is disrupted, it can lead to a variety of health issues beyond just digestive problems.
A microbiome test is a private stool test that measures the types and amounts of bacteria in your intestines. Using specialised technology, it identifies various bacterial species and their balance, and checks for markers of inflammation in the gut and possibly the entire body.
When Microbiome Testing Might Be Beneficial
While gut health might not be the first thing that comes to mind for some health conditions, it’s essential to recognise the connection between digestive health and many chronic health issues.
Here are some signs that microbiome testing could be useful:
- Non-Specific Digestive Symptoms: Persistent bloating, stomach pain, reflux, constipation, or loose stools may indicate an underlying gut imbalance.
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Testing can help identify the root causes of IBS symptoms and guide targeted treatment.
- Inflammatory Conditions: Conditions characterized by inflammation, such as arthritis, may benefit from identifying and addressing gut imbalances.
- Autoimmune Disease and Frequent Infections: If your immune system seems overactive or weakened, gut health may play a significant role as it is a crucial part of immune system regulation.
- Chronic Fatigue including ME/CFS and Long COVID: Persistent fatigue can be influenced by gut health, particularly when inflammation or dysbiosis is present.
Research has shown that people suffering these conditions often have microbiome abnormalities. - Fibromyalgia: For those dealing with chronic pain, gut imbalances may exacerbate symptoms.
- Mental Health Challenges: Mood disorders such as anxiety and depression can be linked to gut health through the gut-brain axis, with testing helping to identify underlying imbalances.
- Metabolic Conditions: Even conditions like diabetes and cardiovascular disease can be influenced by disruptions in gut health.
What Can Functional Gut Testing Reveal?
Functional gut testing helps uncover how your gut may be affecting your health by looking at:
- Gut Bacteria Balance & Diversity: Testing can identify if there’s an imbalance between good and not-so-good bacteria in your gut.
- Signs of a ‘Leaky Gut’: Testing can reveal if your gut lining is more porous than it should be, which could allow harmful substances to enter your bloodstream and trigger inflammation.
- How Well You Digest Food: It evaluates whether your digestive system is making enough enzymes to properly break down the food you eat.
- Inflammation in the Gut and Body: It checks for signs of inflammation that could be affecting not just your gut, but your whole body.
- How Well Your Gut Detoxifies: It assesses whether your gut is effectively getting rid of waste and harmful substances.
- Hidden Infections: It can detect parasites, harmful bacteria, or viruses that might be disrupting your gut health.
How Testing Can Help Target Treatment
The insights gained from microbiome testing can help tailor treatment strategies, potentially improving your quality of life by addressing the root causes of your symptoms. While not every person will require this type of testing, for some, it can provide invaluable insights that guide more effective and individualised treatment plans. If you’re struggling with any of the above conditions or unexplained symptoms, talking to a naturopath about whether microbiome testing is appropriate could be a step toward finding relief.
By understanding the role your gut health plays in your overall well-being, you can take proactive steps to support your body and improve your health.
If you’re curious about how your microbiome might be affecting your health, consider speaking to a naturopath to see whether this testing could be helpful for you.
Article supplied with thanks to Kelli Kieselbach.
About the Author: Kelli Kieselbach is a Naturopath and Nutritionist with a passion for a holistic and natural approach to health and wellbeing. Kelli has a special interest in chronic fatigue and chronic pain disorders, and also works to educate Christian ministry leaders in self care and avoiding burnout.
Feature image: Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash
