Gut microbiome
The gut microbiome is a unique ecosystem of billions of bacteria, yeasts and other microorganisms that naturally inhabit the digestive tract. Each person has their own composition, which changes throughout life.
A balanced gut microbiome plays an important role in digestion, nutrient absorption, immune regulation, production of certain vitamins, metabolism and communication between the gut and brain. Disruption of this balance (dysbiosis) may manifest not only as digestive problems but also a wide range of other health concerns.
We carry out the examination within the psycho-neuro-immuno-endocrinology (PNIE) framework. We assess not only the composition of the gut microbiota, but also its functional significance and possible links to your health.
When to consider testing
Testing may be particularly useful for:
- chronic digestive problems, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease, as a supplementary examination when clinically indicated
- food intolerances, allergies or increased sensitivity to certain foods
- recurring bloating, abdominal pain, constipation or diarrhoea
- chronic fatigue, reduced vitality or weakened immunity
- skin problems such as acne or recurring yeast infections
- headaches and migraines
- increased psychological strain, long-term stress, anxiety or mood disorders
- chronic inflammatory conditions
- suspected vitamin and mineral deficiencies due to impaired absorption
- long-term use of antibiotics or other medicines affecting the gut microbiota
How it works
Initial consultation
Detailed questionnaire and consultation with a biochemist: current concerns, eating habits, lifestyle, medication and previous antibiotic treatments.
Collection of biological samples
You collect a stool sample at home following precise instructions. If necessary, we add laboratory blood tests.
Comprehensive interpretation
We assess not only microbiome composition but also its functional significance and links to the digestive system, metabolism, immunity and overall health.
Individual plan and follow-up
Recommendations may include dietary changes, lifestyle measures, targeted supplementation or individualised probiotic therapy.
What we examine
We tailor the scope of laboratory testing to your health concerns and clinical indication:
- Stool analysis: gut microbiota composition, potentially pathogenic bacteria or yeasts, occult blood, calprotectin, pancreatic elastase, bile acids and short-chain fatty acids (SCFA)
- Molecular microbiome analysis: DNA sequencing (16S rRNA or metagenomic analysis) to assess species composition, diversity and functional potential
- SIBO diagnostics: lactulose or glucose breath tests in cooperation with specialist centres
- Related laboratory parameters: vitamin D, vitamin B12, folate, iron, ferritin, zinc or CRP; specific antibodies if coeliac disease is suspected
Increased intestinal permeability
Depending on individual indication, we also assess markers related to increased intestinal permeability, inflammatory activity and gut function. We measure it using serum zonulin. An elevated value confirms the problem; a normal value does not rule it out.
Before your examination
For a smooth examination and the most accurate results, we recommend:
- collect a stool sample at home following the precise instructions provided by the clinic
- prepare information about your diet, medicines and previous symptoms
- report previous antibiotic treatments and their approximate timing
- if blood collection is included, the usual instructions apply: fast for 8 – 12 hours
The information on this page is for general information and educational purposes. It does not replace an individual consultation or examination by a doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Your most common questions
Answers prepared by our medical team. If something is missing, email or call us.
What is the gut microbiome?
The gut microbiome is an ecosystem of billions of bacteria, yeasts and other microorganisms inhabiting the digestive tract. Each person has a unique composition, influenced by diet, stress, medicines and the environment. It contributes to digestion, nutrient absorption, immune regulation, vitamin production and communication between the gut and brain.
What is dysbiosis and how does it manifest?
Dysbiosis is an imbalance of the gut microbiota. It can manifest as digestive problems, bloating, abdominal pain, constipation or diarrhoea, but also outside the digestive tract: chronic fatigue, weakened immunity, skin problems, headaches or mood fluctuations.
When does microbiome testing make sense?
For chronic digestive problems including irritable bowel syndrome, food intolerances, recurring bloating, chronic fatigue and weakened immunity, acne or recurring yeast infections, after repeated antibiotic treatments, and when impaired vitamin and mineral absorption is suspected.
How is the sample collected?
You collect a stool sample at home following precise instructions provided by the clinic. Depending on individual indication, we add laboratory blood tests. Testing is preceded by a consultation with a biochemist and an initial questionnaire about diet, medicines and previous symptoms.
What is a permeable gut and can it be measured?
A permeable intestinal barrier allows inflammatory stimuli that do not belong there to pass through the intestinal wall into the bloodstream. We measure it using serum zonulin. An elevated value confirms the problem; a normal value does not rule it out. The barrier may leak even with normal zonulin, so we interpret the value in the context of other findings.
Is the microbiome linked to immunity and mental health?
A significant part of the immune system is located in the gut, and the gut communicates with the brain in both directions. Research therefore explores links between microbiota composition and inflammation, mood and mental wellbeing. This is a rapidly developing field in which we always interpret results cautiously and in clinical context.
How does this differ from home microbiome tests?
A home test returns a list of bacteria and general recommendations. Our result is an interpretation in clinical context: we assess not only microbiota composition but also its functional significance and links to your health, and you review the result with a biochemist.
Will I receive probiotics after testing?
Depending on the results. The plan may include dietary changes, lifestyle measures, targeted supplementation or individualised probiotic therapy. No single probiotic suits everyone. What matters is choosing one that matches the findings.
How long does the microbiome take to change?
Microbiota composition responds relatively quickly to dietary changes, but stabilisation takes weeks to months. We therefore plan follow-up consultations and any repeat testing according to individual progress and results.
Let’s start with a conversation.
Choose an appointment online or call us.
If you are unsure which examination to choose, we will help you decide.