Gut Microbiome test

Gut Microbiome test

Autism and Genes, Gut-Brain Axis, Health, Microbiome and Gut health

A gut microbiome test is needed if any kind of abdominal, neurological, or skin complaint is present. It gives relevant information on gut health.

 

 

 

Research shows that your gastrointestinal (GI) system state (or your “gut”) influences your overall health.

While certain symptoms, such as indigestion, mood changes, and skin diseases, could point to imbalances in the gut, these exact connections can only be understood through testing.

This is where microbiome testing could potentially play a role.

A gut microbiome test is a new diagnostic way to get a picture of your overall health.

Microbiome testing measures the amount and types of microbes in your gut, such as bacteria and viruses, via a stool sample. While such tests may be conducted in a doctor’s office, there are at-home tests too when you have to complete the microbiome testing kits on your own.

A gut microbiome refers to the microbes that exist in your digestive system. The intestines, stomach, colon, and esophagus are all important members of your GI tract, and they all contain microbes that affect the digestion process.

Composition of the gut microbiome

You probably know that billions of microorganisms live in our bodies, mostly located in the gastrointestinal tract.  The human genome consists of about 23,000 genes, whereas our microbiome encodes over 3 million genes that produce thousands of metabolites. This means that in the human body there is a superorganism that plays an important role.

Everyone has a unique microbiota like a personal fingerprint and this means that gut microbiota composition is mostly unique to each individual, like an individual identity card.

Current evidence points mostly towards that humans live in a sterile environment in the womb and infants only start being colonized by microbes when going through the vaginal passage, or during skin contact with parents or the medical team. The human microbiota is established in this phase and starts as a dynamic ecosystem that stabilizes during the first 2–3 years.

 

Composition is influenced by:

  • Feeding methods (breast milk, artificial milk, and introduction of solid food);
  • Medication (antibiotics, acid suppressants, drugs);
  • Dietary habits; environment and lifestyle; and weight gain.
  • Genetics factors;
  • Anatomical parts of the intestinal tract (e.g. the large intestine has a higher microbial diversity compared with the small intestine);
  • Gestational age (preterm or full-term birth); delivery mode (vaginal delivery or C-section); and aging.
    The microbiomes have many essential functions in the body: from helping digestion and producing vitamins to supporting the development of the immune system and preventing infections.
  • Impressively there are also interactions between gut microbes and the brain which means we may be able to support mental health by changing the gut microbiome.
  • The microbiome functions as an extra organ, that uses nutrients from ingested foods to produce a large number of compounds, including vitamins, short chain fatty acids (SCFAs), and essential amino acids. The gut microbiome, through metabolite production and fermentation, helps the intestine to maintain its equilibrium. When a balanced interaction between the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and the resident microbiota is disrupted, intestinal and extra-intestinal diseases may develop.
When there’s an imbalance of gut microbes, various health effects may occur as a result. Common symptoms of gut disruptions may include bloating, stool changes, and heartburn,diarrhea,mood swings,skin disorders such as eczema,POD ( peioralis dermatitis)and rashes on any part of the body, SIBO, inflammation, insuline resistance…and so on.

Furthermore
Your gut health affects your brain through neurotransmitters (serotonin contributes to feelings of happiness, gaba – gamma- aminobutyric reduces anxiety ) and these neurotransmitters are produced by gut cells and gut microbes.

Why test your microbiome?

The primary purpose of this type of stool testing is to analyze microbes and potential imbalances in your GI system. This kind of stool sample analysis can provide clues to potential inflammatory conditions or autoimmune diseases, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and Celiac disease.
By testing your gut microbiome, you can learn more about the functions of your gut microbiome and check that it is helping to keep you healthy and not contributing to making you sick. Using a metagenomic gut microbiome test, you will learn your potential to break down nutrients and discover the potential of your gut microbiome to break down macronutrients such as fiber, protein, simple sugars, and fats.
obtain a comprehensive list of the microbial species present
Whether it’s a well-known species or newly discovered, you will get a full list of the different bacteria and archaea present in your gut.

Receive tailored guidance from a Microbiome Coach

If the detailed information about the result of your microbiome test is not enough for you, it is possible to ask for help from a Microbiome coach who helps in evaluating your test result. Gain a deeper understanding of your Insight™ report and discuss your personalized shopping list of food suggestions with a qualified health professional.

Resources
  • [1] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28743984/
  • [2] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30025401/
  • [3] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27812084/
  • [4] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28512250/
  • [5] Thriene K. et al. Effects of Fermented Vegetable Consumption on Human Gut Microbiome Diversity—A Pilot Study. Fermentation. ;8(3).(2022).
  • [6] Sarka A et al. Pychobiotucs and the Manipulation of Bacteria-Gut-Brain Signlas. Trends in Neurosciences. (2016).
  • [7] Bear T et al. The Microbiome-Gut-Brain Axis and Resilience to Developing Anxiety or Depression under Stress. Microorganisms. (2021)
  • [8] Miranda-Comas G. et al. Implications of the Gut Microbiome in Sports. Sports Health (2022).
  • [9] Day AW. et al. Gut Microbiome Dysbiosis in Alcoholism: Consequences for Health and Recovery. (2022).
  • [10] Leclercq S. et al. Alterations of kynurenine pathway in alcohol use disorder and abstinence: a link with gut microbiota, peripheral inflammation and psychological symptoms. Transl Psychiatry. ;11(1):503. (2021).
  • [11] Seo B et al. Roseburia spp. Abundance Associates with Alcohol Consumption in Humans and Its Administration Ameliorates Alcoholic Fatty Liver in Mice. Cell host & microbe. ;27(1):25-40.e6. (2020).
  • [12] Flikkema J. The Relationship Between the Gut Microbiome and Sleep Examined Through Associated Human Disease. University Honors Theses. (2022).
  • [13] Han M. et al.. The interplay between sleep and gut microbiota. Brain Research Bulletin. (2022).
Foods in SIBO

Foods in SIBO

Gut-Brain Axis, Health, Microbiome and Gut health, SIBO

In the next “Foods in SIBO” list, you can find all kinds of food you can eat if you are struggling with SIBO, but you can also use this list if you have abdominal discomfort or IBS.

If you have SIBO, avoiding carbohydrates from your diet is essential. SCD, LFD, GAPS, and FODMAP diets and their variants are the most popular diets recommended to people struggling with SIBO.

All these diets are based on low carbohydrate intake because this feeds pathogens.

The only carbohydrate that bacteria do not eat much of is insoluble fiber. Below you can find most of the food consumed if you have SIBO.

“Foods in SIBO” list

If you have SIBO, you should avoid any carbohydrates. In the “Foods in SIBO” list, you can find all the food that can be consumed

Quality Protein Sources

  • Bone soup
  • Eggs (quail eggs only)
  • Pumpkin seed
  • Organic grass-fed lamb
  • Organic pasture poultry (chicken, duck, turkey)
  • Hydrolyzed bovine collagen
  • Vegan protein: rice, hemp, pea, etc.

Healthy Fats

  • Coconut, coconut oil, coconut flour, coconut + butter / semolina / milk / yogurt / cream
  • Ghee (if you tolerate)
  • Grape seed oil
  • Olive oil
  • Flaxseed oil

Alternatives for diary products

  • Coconut milk, yogurt, cream
  • Oat milk
  • Rice milk
sibo food coconut

Bio, Non-Starch Vegetable

  • Sprouts (including broccoli, radishes and sunflower sprouts)
  • Artichoke
  • Asparagus
  • Bean sprouts
  • Broccoli
  • Brussels sprouts
  • Cabbage
  • Cauliflower
  • Celery
  • Cucumber
  • Fennel
  • Onions
  • Green onions
  • Turnips
  • Herbs (parsley, coriander, basil, rosemary, thyme, dill, lemongrass, etc.)
  • Kohlrabi
  • Leek
  • Salad (baby salad, iceberg lettuce)
  • Peppers (green, red, yellow, orange jalapeno)
  • Radish
  • Rhubarb
  • Onions
  • Swiss chard
  • Watercress
  • Zucchini

sibo food broccoli

Delicious spices

  • Anise
  • Basil
  • Bay leaf
  • Cocoa beans
  • Cayenne
  • Coriander / coriander
  • Cinnamon
  • Clove
  • Cumin
  • Dill
  • Ginger
  • Ground black pepper
  • Mint
  • Nutmeg
  • Oregano
  • Paprika
  • Parsley
  • Red chili flakes
  • Rosemary
  • Sea salt
  • Stevia
  • Tarragon
  • Thyme
  • Curcuma
  • Vanilla
sibo food spices

Drinks

  • Bone soup
  • Coconut milk
  • Smoothies
  • Tea, herbal, decaffeinated
  • Water

Gluten-Free Flour

  • Arrow root starch
  • Coconut flour
  • Sweet potato flour
  • Tapioca flour

Bone soup

Fruits

  • Apples
  • Apricots
  • Blueberries
  • Blackberries
  • Redcurrant
  • Cherry
  • Cranberries
  • Figs
  • Goji berries
  • Gooseberry
  • Solo
  • Kiwi
  • Lychee
  • Mango
  • Melon
  • Mulberry
  • Nectarine
  • Passionfruit
  • Peach
  • Pear
  • Persimmon
  • Plum
  • Pomegranate
  • Quince
  • Raspberry
sibo food mango

Starched vegetables after SIBO treatment 

  • Carrot
  • Chestnut
  • Jerusalem artichoke
  • Parsley
  • Potato
  • Pumpkin
  • Sweet potatoes
artichoke SIBO
sibo products

More articles on SIBO

Five facts about SIBO

Treatment of SIBO

Symptoms and causes of SIBO

Diagnosis of SIBO

SIBO aggravating factors

Facts about SIBO
SIBO treatment
Symptoms, causes
Diagnosis
Aggravatings

Leaky Gut

Leaky Gut

Autism and Genes, Gut-Brain Axis, Microbiome and Gut health, SIBO

Symptoms and causes

Symptoms and causes

Normally, the bowel does not leak. However, if there is a problem with the intestinal tract, the intestinal wall can also penetrate, leading to inflammation.

On the one hand, the intestines must be sufficiently permeable to absorb nutrients and fluids. Still, they also need a defense mechanism that retains harmful substances and pathogens. The nutrients come from the outside world, i.e., many microorganisms, chemicals, and toxins are ingested daily through food and drink, which enter the body through the intestinal tract.

Formation of Leaky Gut Syndrome

The gut as a defense system

The first stop of this defense system is the barrier, i.e. the gut flora, or as it is now called: the microbiome.

The beneficial bacteria in the gut flora are capable of:

  •  To destroy pathogens
  • “Filters out” various toxins, carcinogens,
  • to produce substances that nourish the cells of the intestinal wall,
  • they also take part in mucus production, which involves the inner surface of the gut,
  • They make B vitamins, folic acid, short-chain fatty acids,
  • “Inform” the immune system of the presence of pathogens and harmful substances.

The second line of defense is the intestinal epithelial cell

In the gut, this is done by a specialized epithelial cell (epithelium), which is made up of only one layer. The intestinal mucosa is damaged by SIBO and does not ingest the pathogens due to inflammation; the duct between the intestinal cells remains open, allowing pathogens and toxins to enter the bloodstream, causing inflammation in other parts of the body, in addition to food sensitivities. Allergies develop. If SIBO is not treated for a long time, autoimmune processes may start.

The third line of defense is the gut’s immune system which is 70-80% of all immune cells in the body.

Leakage in the gut can also be caused by gluten, as gluten triggers the production of zonulin in the gut. Zonulin is a protein found in the small intestine that regulates the opening and closing of a channel between intestinal cells. When the zonulin rises, it opens the nodes, and the nodes close when the zonulin level falls down. This protein is activated by gluten, which elevates zonulin and opens nodes in the channels between intestinal cells.
While many suspect celiac diseases as the cause of their problems, SIBO is often the case.

Zonulin can also be activated and elevated by infections such as Candida overgrowth, SIBO, and parasites, and exposure to toxins and stress can all cause leaking intestinal tract.

Symptoms of a leaky gut

  • Digestive problems such as bloating, diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
  • Food allergy or food intolerance
  • Brain fog, difficulty concentrating, Attention Deficit
  • Hyperactivity Disorder (ADD) or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
  • Mood imbalances such as depression and anxiety, decreased ability to manage stress
  • Skin problems such as acne, rosacea, or eczema
  • Seasonal allergies or asthma
  • Hormonal imbalances such as irregular menstruation, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
  • Diagnosis of autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, lupus, psoriasis, or celiac disease
  • Diagnosis of chronic fatigue or fibromyalgia

Causes of a leaky gut

So the following can lead to the development of leaky gut syndrome:

  • colonization of harmful pathogens in the intestine
  • food allergies
  • Hidden food intolerances: these are very insidious because
  • intolerance usually develops to food that is consumed often, even every day but does not cause immediate symptoms. (gluten, casein, eggs)
  • long-term medication, antibiotics
  • digestive enzyme deficiencies
  • hormonal changes
  • abnormal fluctuations in blood sugar levels
  • persistent stress
  • Accumulation of chemicals, and toxins in the intestine

10 signs of leaky gut

  1. Chronic diarrhea, constipation, gas or bloating
  2. Nutritional deficiencies
  3. Poor immune system
  4. Headaches, brain fog, memory loss
  5. Excessive fatigue
  6. Skin rashes and problems such as acne, eczema or rosacea
  7. Cravings for sugar or carbs
  8. Arthritis or joint pain
  9. Depression, anxiety, ADD, ADHD
  10. Autoimmune diseases

If you are experiencing these symptoms, consider talking to your healthcare provider and test your microbiome with the newest technology to find out what is happening inside your gut. Re-rebuilding the gut microbiome and repairing the intestinal wall is essential to stay healthy for the long term.

Resources
  • 1] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33171587/
  • [2] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32902315/
  • [3] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23851019/
  • [4] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30394372/

    Gut and skin

    Gut and skin

    Gut-Brain Axis, Health, Microbiome and Gut health, Organic skincare, SIBO

    The link between gut and skin health

     

    If you have skin rashes or eczematous symptoms, you should never think it is a genetic condition.

    If you have long-term, chronic symptoms, you should not only see a dermatologist or switch to natural cosmetics but also remember that digestive problems and internal parasites could be behind the external symptoms.

    In nutritional studies, the skin has long been considered an indicator of intestinal issues and an imbalance of intestinal flora.

    To have clear, healthy skin, you should first regenerate your gut.

    Epidemiological studies show a clear link between intestinal problems and skin diseases.

    When skin problems do not respond properly to skin care treatments, the source of the problem is actually in the gut. A poorly functioning gut system can potentially exacerbate or lead to pre-existing skin conditions. Acne, rosacea, and perioral dermatitis are ten times more likely to occur with small intestinal bacterial infections (SIBO). Skin rashes occur in 14% of patients with ulcerative colitis and 24% with Crohn’s disease. Mucosal lesions, alopecia, and vitiligo are also more common in gluten sensitivity. Skin problems and acne may occur due to increased intestinal permeability (leaky gut) in inflammatory bowel disease.

    Studies have shown that intestinal inflammation and dysbiosis can impair the skin’s protective function. This condition, in turn, leads to a decrease in the number of antimicrobial peptides produced in the skin and may increase the severity of certain infections as part of the skin’s inflammatory response

    The intestinal flora influences the health of the skin

    The condition of the intestinal flora affects the health of the skin. The so-called neuropeptide substance P is produced in the intestine, brain, and skin and plays an essential role in the condition of the skin. An altered gut microbiome releases higher neuropeptide P levels in the gut and the skin. Higher levels of neuropeptide P affect lipid production and fatty acid profiles in tissues and can influence sebum production and fatty acid composition of sebum. Several studies have already demonstrated the positive effects of probiotics on the skin.

    Gut-skin axis

    “The GSA describes the relationship where the gut can influence skin health owing to its immunological and metabolic properties.52 Although it is difficult to strictly attribute a cause-and-effect relationship between the gut microbiome and dermatologic conditions, multiple studies support a connection between them with several cutaneous diseases being associated with GI disorders and vice versa.”(1)

    Several studies have already demonstrated the beneficial effects of probiotics on the skin. Fermented dairy products have a positive effect on intestinal flora, while unfermented dairy products can promote acne breakouts. However, be careful with fermented products if you suffer from SIBO. Oral probiotics reduce inflammation and systemic oxidative stress markers, which are locally elevated in acne. However, if you do not know anything about your microbiome, it is recommended to take only high-quality soil-based probiotics.

    “Gut microbiota influence the pathophysiology of acne via cross-talk between intestinal commensal bacteria and the mTOR pathway ()” (2)

    A well-balanced, nutrient-rich diet is critical to maintaining a healthy gut. If you do not have any particular intestinal problems, you can take probiotic supplements to increase the versatility of your intestinal flora.

    Quercetin, a powerful antioxidant, and a miracle molecule can still be beneficial. Since I have been taking Quercetin regularly, I have not had a single pimple, although I am sure that my intestinal flora is not 100% perfect.

    What can you do to improve your digestion and skin?

    • Avoid dairy, soy, gluten, and rapidly absorbable carbohydrates for at least 1-2 months.
    • Take probiotics daily. Preferably something that has been studied and proven to be effective. If you have intestinal problems, take only soil-based probiotics.
    • In the case of digestive problems, take regular “digestive enzymes ” to help your digestion, which will relieve your heavy stomach immediately after a large meal. If you do not take a digestive supplement, incorporate apple cider vinegar into your daily routine, preferably the unfiltered variety. After a meal, a tablespoon will help digest the food. It is important to support digestion with natural supplements when altered intestinal flora and impaired digestion slow down the digestion of food because, in this case, there is stagnation in the small intestine, which causes many unpleasant symptoms and inflammation.
    • Move around whenever you can!
    • I am thinking of something other than going to the gym every day. However, you should walk as much as possible if you do not have time to exercise. Introduce a 15-minute workout at a faster pace 3x per week to work your muscles and speed up your metabolism.
    • Take evening primrose oil, as its gamma-linolenic acid content reduces the symptoms of eczema, and take omega-3 capsules (1000 mg ) 2-3 times a day to reduce inflammatory processes.

    Stick to the above for at least 2-3 months, and follow a diet high in fiber, and you will surely see the change!

    Resources
    [1]

    https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0738081X21001930

    [2]

    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6048199/

    [3]

    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7916842/

    [4]

    https://www.dermatologytimes.com/view/gut-bacteria-linked-to-inflammatory-skin-disease

    [5]

    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33924414/

    [6]

    Deutsch L. Evaluation of the effect of Neptune Krill Oil on chronic inflammation and arthritic symptoms. J Am Coll Nutr 2007:26:39-48.

    [7]

    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27554239/

    [8]

    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33921772/

    [9]

    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33540138/

    [10]

    https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/903431

    [11]

    Demirel Ogut N. Link Between the Gut and Inflammatory Skin Disease Exposed. Accessed May 11, 2021. Published online May 7, 2021. https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2021-05/sc-tro050621.php

    [12]

    Stocum, Linda. “Gut Bacteria Linked to Inflammatory Skin Disease.” https://www.dermatologytimes.com/, 11 May 2021, www.dermatologytimes.com/view/gut-bacteria-linked-to-inflammatory-skin-disease.

    [13]

    Juhl, Christian R, et al. “Dairy Intake and Acne Vulgaris: A Systematic Review and Meta Analysis of 78,529 Children, Adolescents, and Young Adults.” Nutrients, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 9 Aug. 2018, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6115795/.

    [14]

    Sanz, Yolanda. “Effects of a Gluten-Free Diet on Gut Microbiota and Immune Function in Healthy Adult Humans.” Gut Microbes, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2010, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3023594/.

    [15]

    Acne Vulgaris – Statpearls – NCBI Bookshelf. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459173/.

    [16]

    Demirel Ogut N. Link Between the Gut and Inflammatory Skin Disease Exposed. Accessed May 11, 2021. Published online May 7, 2021. https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2021-05/sc-tro050621.php

    [17]

    Stocum, Linda. “Gut Bacteria Linked to Inflammatory Skin Disease.” https://www.dermatologytimes.com/, 11 May 2021, www.dermatologytimes.com/view/gut-bacteria-linked-to-inflammatory-skin-disease.

    [18]

    Juhl, Christian R, et al. “Dairy Intake and Acne Vulgaris: A Systematic Review and Meta Analysis of 78,529 Children, Adolescents, and Young Adults.” Nutrients, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 9 Aug. 2018, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6115795/.

    [19]

    Sanz, Yolanda. “Effects of a Gluten-Free Diet on Gut Microbiota and Immune Function in Healthy Adult Humans.” Gut Microbes, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2010, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3023594/.