Do gut microbiome examinations hold value?
People searching for solutions to their persistent digestion issues often turn to the internet, where microbiome self-tests are advertised as a way to understand the makeup of their gut bacteria. But do these tests actually provide any relief? Experts have their doubts.
These tests allow you to analyze the composition of the bacteria in your gut by purchasing a kit, taking a stool sample at home, and mailing it in. The lab then inspects your sample and sends you the results, often accompanied by dietary suggestions and action plans.
However, the German Society for Gastroenterology, Digestive and Metabolic Diseases (DGVS) cautions against these microbiome self-tests. One reason for their skepticism is that users may have difficulty interpreting the results. Additionally, it's unclear where the analyzed stool comes from in the intestine, according to DGVS spokesperson Birgit Terjung. This matter is important because the microbiome found in stool and the microbiome adhering to the intestinal mucosa differ significantly.
A personalized fingerprint
There's a dearth of reliable and consistent methods for evaluating the gut microbiome. Additionally, there's no standard definition of what constitutes a healthy microbiome. Much like fingerprints, individual microbiomes differ from person to person.
Consequently, relying on stool analysis results for dietary changes or the consumption of pre- and probiotics or nutritional supplements is highly problematic.
Collaboration with probiotic companies
Most analysis labs collaborate with specific probiotic companies and subsequently recommend their products. As Terjung points out, "It's common for analysis laboratories to suggest follow-up examinations to test the impact of the suggested measures."
The cost for these tests, including any suggested treatment plans, typically ranges from the hundreds of euros. Health insurance companies do not cover these expenses.
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Despite the promise of personalized dietary suggestions based on gut microbiome results, the interpretation of these tests can be difficult for users due to a lack of standard definitions and methods for evaluation. Furthermore, the significance of using stool analysis for nutritional supplements or probiotics is questionable, given the distinct differences between the gut microbiome in stool and adhering to the intestinal mucosa, a point raised by the German Society for Gastroenterology, Digestion, and Metabolic Diseases (DGVS).
In light of these concerns, it's essential to critically assess the nutrition and health advice derived from gut microbiome tests, as the potential for misinterpretation is high, and the findings may not accurately reflect the microbiome in our intestines.
Source: www.ntv.de
