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At-home gut microbiome testing explained

Written by Kean Health
6 min

A gut microbiome test is a method of analyzing and identifying the bacteria present in your gut. Kean Health offers two gut microbiome tests, Gut and Gut+. The gut microbiome is the ecosystem of the good and bad bacteria that live in your stomach and small intestines. Studies have shown that the gut microbiome is quite influential to many of your body's functions like your digestive, physical, and emotional health. If you have minor health concerns, it might be time for a check-up on your gut health. An at-home gut microbiome test can serve as a tool to pinpoint whether or not the bacteria in your gut could be the problem.

How does it work?

♦ First, collect your stool sample and take our comprehensive questionnaire about your sample, lifestyle, and your health status.

♦ Secondly, after shipping your sample, the laboratory procedures begin. Your sample's data is characterized using 16s rRna or Shotgun Metagenomic Sequencing.

→ Kean Gut uses 16s rRNA sequencing that targets the 16s rRNA gene found in almost all bacteria. This analysis is used to identify bacteria at a species level and determine the abundance and distribution of bacteria in your sample. You can find out the amount of Bifodobacterium in your sample. Bifodobacterium can impact your body's ability to create serotonin and gamma-aminobutyric-acid (GABA) which are essential nutrients that influence your mood and emotional health.

→ Kean Gut+ uses shotgun metagenomic sequencing, which sequences all genomic DNA found in your sample including bacteria, fungi, viruses, and even your DNA. This allows for the deepest, most comprehensive look into your microbiome.

In the lab, our scientists analyze the bacteria present in your gut and characterize which bacteria are good or bad for your health. This analysis determines your microbial diversity which directly contributes to your health.

Third, your results are ready! In your report, you'll get the answers you need like your gut grade, vitamin & probiotic profile, and wellness factors. Gain insights about what essential nutrients or bacteria play a role in your health and receive recommendations based on your personalized results.

 

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