Gut Biome

A gut biome test, also known as a gut microbiome test or gut microbiota analysis, is a type of medical test that examines the composition and diversity of the microorganisms, such as bacteria, fungi, viruses, and other microbes, that reside in the gastrointestinal tract, particularly the intestines. The gut microbiome refers to the community of microorganisms that inhabit the digestive tract and play a crucial role in maintaining human health.

Gut biome tests typically involve the collection of a stool sample, which is then analyzed using advanced sequencing technologies to identify and quantify the various types of microbes present in the gut. These tests can provide insights into the diversity and abundance of different microbial species in the gut, which can help assess the overall health and balance of the gut microbiome.

Some gut biome tests may also provide additional information, such as the functional capacity of the gut microbiome, by examining the genetic potential of the microbes to produce certain metabolites or enzymes that can impact human health. Gut biome tests are used in research, clinical practice, and wellness applications to better understand the gut microbiome and its potential implications for various health conditions, such as gastrointestinal disorders, metabolic diseases, immune system function, mental health, and more. However, it’s important to consult a qualified healthcare professional for interpretation and appropriate use of gut biome test results.

Relationship with Longevity

Research has shown that the gut microbiome has a complex and dynamic relationship with overall health and may influence the aging process.

1. Nutrient metabolism: The gut microbiome is involved in the breakdown and absorption of nutrients, including dietary fiber, which can produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) as metabolites. SCFAs have been associated with various health benefits, including anti-inflammatory effects and improved metabolic health, which may contribute to longevity.
2. Immune function: The gut microbiome plays a crucial role in modulating the immune system. A balanced and diverse gut microbiome can help regulate immune function, while dysbiosis, or an imbalance in the gut microbiome, has been linked to increased inflammation and age-related diseases.
3. Metabolic health: Emerging evidence suggests that the gut microbiome may influence metabolism and energy homeostasis, which can impact overall health and longevity. Dysbiosis in the gut microbiome has been associated with metabolic disorders such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases, which are risk factors for age-related diseases.
4. Inflammation: Chronic low-grade inflammation, also known as inflammaging, has been implicated in the aging process and age-related diseases. The gut microbiome can influence the production of pro-inflammatory or anti-inflammatory compounds, which can impact systemic inflammation and contribute to healthy aging.
5. Microbial diversity: A diverse and resilient gut microbiome with a wide variety of microbial species has been associated with better health outcomes, including longevity. Reduced microbial diversity in the gut has been linked to various health issues and may contribute to age-related decline.

Gut Biome in India

The gut microbiome in India has been a subject of increasing interest and research in recent years. India has a unique and diverse population with a wide range of dietary habits, lifestyles, and genetic backgrounds, making it an ideal location for studying the gut microbiome.

Several studies have shown that the gut microbiome of Indians is distinct from that of people from other regions of the world, with a higher abundance of certain microbial species. One study found that the gut microbiome of rural Indians was significantly different from that of urban Indians, with rural Indians having a higher diversity of bacteria.

The Indian diet, which is rich in plant-based foods, is believed to be a significant contributor to the differences in the gut microbiome. Studies have shown that the consumption of fiber-rich foods, such as lentils, beans, and vegetables, can increase the abundance of beneficial gut bacteria.

There is also growing interest in the role of the gut microbiome in the high prevalence of metabolic disorders, such as type 2 diabetes, in India. Recent studies have shown that the gut microbiome of individuals with type 2 diabetes is distinct from that of healthy individuals, and changes in the gut microbiome can affect glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity.

Overall, research on the gut microbiome in India is still in its early stages, but it has the potential to provide valuable insights into the relationship between diet, the gut microbiome, and health outcomes.

There are several players offering gut biome testing services in India. Some of them are:

1. Positive Bioscience – offers a Gut Microbiome test that provides personalized recommendations for diet, exercise, and supplements based on the gut microbiome results.
2. MapMyGenome – offers a Microbiome Health Test that analyzes the gut microbiome and provides insights into the overall gut health and personalized recommendations for diet and lifestyle changes.
3. Medgenome Labs – offers a Gut Microbiome Test that analyzes the composition of gut bacteria and provides insights into the overall gut health and personalized recommendations for diet and lifestyle changes.
4. Xcode Life Sciences – offers a Gut Microbiome Test that analyzes the gut microbiome and provides insights into the overall gut health and personalized recommendations for diet and lifestyle changes.
5. MolQ Laboratory – offers a Gut Microbiome Test that analyzes the composition of gut bacteria and provides insights into the overall gut health and personalized recommendations for diet and lifestyle changes.

List of Players offering gut biome tests in USA

1. uBiome – a company that offers a range of microbiome testing kits, including gut microbiome testing kits, that allow customers to gain insight into the composition of their gut microbiome and how it relates to their health and wellbeing.
2. Viome – a company that uses artificial intelligence and machine learning to analyze a person’s gut microbiome, blood, and other biomarkers to provide personalized dietary recommendations and lifestyle changes to optimize gut health.
3. Thryve – a company that offers gut microbiome testing kits and personalized probiotics based on the results of the test, as well as a gut health program that includes dietary and lifestyle recommendations.
4. DayTwo – a company that analyzes a person’s gut microbiome to provide personalized dietary recommendations that can help balance blood sugar levels, improve gut health, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes.
5. Diagnostic Solutions Laboratory – a company that offers comprehensive stool testing for gut microbiome analysis, as well as other diagnostic tests for gastrointestinal issues and chronic conditions.
6. Genova Diagnostics – a company that offers a range of diagnostic tests, including stool testing for gut microbiome analysis, as well as tests for other chronic conditions and nutritional deficiencies.
7. ZOE – a company that offers personalized nutrition insights based on a person’s gut microbiome and other biomarkers, using a combination of AI technology and clinical research.
8. Microba – a company that uses advanced DNA sequencing technology to analyze a person’s gut microbiome, providing personalized dietary recommendations to optimize gut health.
9. Viatar CTC Solutions – a company that offers a non-invasive blood test that analyzes circulating tumor cells (CTCs) in the bloodstream, which can provide information on a person’s gut microbiome and overall health status.
10. Biohm – a company that offers gut microbiome testing kits and personalized probiotics based on the results of the test, as well as a gut health program that includes dietary and lifestyle recommendations. They also offer home testing kits for environmental toxins that can impact gut health.

It’s important to note that these tests should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare professional, as the results may not be conclusive and could be subject to interpretation.

Contents of gut biome report

OVERVIEW

MICROBE COMPOSITION

METABOLIC INDICATORS

DIET AND NUTRITION

PROBIOTICS

CONCLUSION

A. OVERVIEW

Gut at a glance Our gut is composed of trillions of microbes, majority of them are helpful and a few potentially harmful.

Gut Health Index

Gut Health Index is a measure for evaluating your gut health based on the microbes in your Gut. We have calculated the Gut Health Index for approximately 1000 Indian adults, including healthy as well as unhealthy. A GHI score in 39.4th percentile means your GHI is better than 39.4% of the adults in our database.

Microbiome Diversity Score

Microbiome Diversity Score correlates with your health based on the number and types of bacteria in your body. A Microbiome Diversity Score at 99.4th percentile means your gut microbial diversity is better than 99.4% of the adults in our database.

F/B Ratio Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes (F/B) are two major classes of Bacteria, dominant in human gut microbiota. F/B ratio is shown to be correlated with the balance or imbalance in gut microbiota.

B. MICROBE COMPOSITION

Know your most abundant microbes Our gut is composed of trillions of microbes, majority of them are helpful and a few potentially harmful.

2. Favourable Bacteria

3. Pathogenic Bacteria

Most species of bacteria in the gut are harmless and are often beneficial but some others can cause infectious diseases and are known as Pathogens. Pathogens can cause illness to humans in a variety of different ways. Following are the 3 pathogenic bacteria found in your gut.

4.Opportunistic Pathogens

Opportunistic pathogens are certain bacteria that do not cause disease in a healthy human. In an individual with a non-compromised immune system, they act as commensals. However, upon disruption of a balanced immune system they can cause infection. Following are the 6 opportunistic pathogens found in your gut.

5. Probiotic Bacteria

Probiotics are live microorganisms that if consumed in recommended amounts, can provide health benefits, generally by improving or restoring the gut microbiome. Following are the 3 probiotic bacteria found in your gut.

C. METABOLIC INDICATORS

Microbiome-based metabolic indicators

1.Butyrate Producers

Butyrate is a type of Short-Chain Fatty Acid (SCFA), which is one of the main metabolites produced by the microbiota in the gut. Butyrate prevents bad bacteria from growing in your intestine, increase your body’s ability to absorb minerals like calcium and lower your appetite by benefiting your metabolism. Following are the 7 butyrate producing bacteria found in your gut.

2. LPS Producers

The composition of the gut microbiome determines the reservoir of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). When LPS migrates from the gut to different parts of the body, can be instrumental in promoting a number of diseases through inflammation. Following are the 1 LPS producing bacteria found in your gut.

3. Gas Producers

The gut microbiome helps in breaking down the undigested carbohydrates and generate gas. These bacteria are commonly Sulfate reducers and Ammonia producers. Having some gas symptoms is normal, especially during or after meals. However, excessive microbial gas production has been associated with digestive difficulties, discomfort, and gut inflammation. Following are the 1 gas producing bacteria found in your gut.

4. Biofilm Formers

Some bacteria carry the ability to form protective shield known as biofilms which provides an ideal environment for survival. This characteristic allows antibiotic resistance development and are thought to play an important role in Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). Following are the 1 biofilm forming bacteria found in your gut.

6.Pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory microbes

Certain bacteria are linked to drive inflammatory (pro-inflammatory) conditions in your gut, whereas some can prevent the inflammation flare (anti-inflammatory).

D. DIET AND NUTRITION

Personalized Diet Recommendations

The personalized diet recommendations are provided in a 3-phase manner, each with foods to be limited and to be consumed categories.

Phase 1 : Gut Reboot INITAL 3-4 WEEKS

Here, the recommendations focus on eliminating the pathogens and opportunistic microbes in your system, while creating ideal space for the beneficial microbes to grow.

Phase 2 : Gut Rebuild NEXT 4-6 WEEKS

Here, the recommendations focus on eliminating the pathogens and opportunistic microbes in your system, while creating ideal space for the beneficial microbes to grow.

Phase 3 : Gut Retain NEXT 4-6 WEEKS

Here, the recommendations focus on eliminating the pathogens and opportunistic microbes in your system, while creating ideal space for the beneficial microbes to grow.

E. PROBIOTICS

Personalized Probiotics Recommendations

 Probiotics can help you improve your gut microbial population, modulate inflammatory markers, blunt unnecessary activation of the immune system, reduce incidences of gut dysbiosis and intestinal leakage, thereby contributing to the overall health. Based on your gut-microbiome profile your personalized Probiotic recommendations are given in two categories – Essential and Good-to-have Probiotics.

F. CONCLUSION

Your gut is contributing well to your health but needs strengthening which can be achieved by following our dietary recommendations. Based on your miGQ report, your gut microbiome is well diverse and gut health index is in the moderate range. However, your out of range F/B ratio indicates an imbalanced gut microbiome. The favourable and probiotic bacteria in your gut are within the acceptable range, indicating the goodness is thriving. These beneficial bacteria are contributing to the SCFA (butyrate) reserves and anti-inflammatory activity in your gut. However, there are a few pathogenic (such as Clostridium clostridioforme) and opportunistic bacteria (such as Escherichia coli) as well present in abundance. These potentially harmful bacteria are engaged in LPS production, gas production, biofilm formation, and pro-inflammatory activity in your gut, which may lead to gut-related discomfort. With the right diet modifications and inclusion of recommended probiotics, you can soon have a healthier gut microbiome.

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