All 6,000 microbiome biomarkers from mybody x at a glance

Why this value appears in your results

The proportion gives you an initial indication of how well the lactic acid-producing fraction of your gut flora is doing. Because Bifidobacteria make up the largest part of this group, the value often reflects their abundance. It complements the individual values in your results and helps you interpret them correctly.

When the share is high

A high proportion of the total flora usually results from having many Bifidobacteria and is considered unremarkable to beneficial. It is often observed with a high-fiber diet or after taking corresponding cultures. More rarely, it is due to a substantial increase in other members of the group. The individual species in your results can show you which case applies to you.

When the proportion is low

Low levels are often observed after antibiotic use, with an unbalanced diet, and with increasing age. When lactic acid-producing species are lacking, the pH in the large intestine tends to rise, creating better conditions for unwanted microbes. For many people, diet can influence the level again within a few weeks.

What feeds it

Bifidobacteria thrive on certain fibers: chicory, Jerusalem artichokes, black salsify, onions, leeks, garlic, and bananas provide inulin and related substances. Oatmeal and whole-grain rye are also well utilized. Fermented foods such as plain yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut also provide live cultures. Start with small portions if you are prone to bloating, and increase them gradually.

Frequently asked questions

Are Actinobacteria the same as Bifidobacteria?
Not quite. Bifidobacteria are a genus within the phylum Actinobacteria, so they are part of it. Because they make up the largest proportion of this group in the gut, the two values usually track each other. Other members, such as Collinsella, also belong to it, but occur in smaller amounts and are assessed separately.

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Why this value appears in your results

The level is considered an indicator of the condition of your mucus layer, an important part of the intestinal barrier. Studies also often observe Akkermansia in connection with sugar and fat metabolism. Because the species responds quickly to diet, its level can be tracked over time.

When the share is high

High levels are considered beneficial in many people and are often observed with a high-fiber diet, weight loss, or longer breaks between meals. Very high levels are a topic of discussion: Since the bacterium feeds on mucus, it could consume more of the mucus layer when fiber intake is very low. Research on this question is still ongoing.

When the proportion is low

Low levels are often reported in studies in people who eat a low-fiber diet, are overweight, have metabolic abnormalities, or have taken antibiotics. They are considered an indication of a less well-maintained mucus layer. However, a low level alone does not say anything about symptoms, and it can often be changed through diet within a few weeks.

What feeds it

Polyphenols play a major role here: blueberries, cranberries, pomegranate, dark grapes, green tea, and high-percentage cocoa. Plus fiber from oats, flaxseed, chicory, onions, and apples. Fish oil from salmon or herring has also been linked to it. Longer breaks between meals and regular exercise can help, while sugar and alcohol tend to have the opposite effect.

Frequently asked questions

Can I simply take Akkermansia as a capsule?
Supplements containing this species are now available, usually in an inactivated form. Early studies look promising, but the evidence is still limited and the products are not available everywhere in Europe. Many people can also influence their levels through diet, and this approach has been well studied.

Does Akkermansia break down my mucus layer?
In a well-nourished gut microbiome, this creates a balance. The constant remodeling stimulates the lining to produce new mucus, preserving the protective layer. The balance is only considered a concern when very little fiber reaches the colon for an extended period. A high-fiber diet therefore helps keep things in balance.

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Why this value appears in your results

Alistipes shows how strongly your gut processes protein and fat. As its share increases, metabolism in the colon shifts away from pure fiber fermentation. In your test results, this level helps put your dietary pattern into context, and is best considered alongside the butyrate producers.

When the share is high

Higher levels are often observed with diets high in protein and fat and low in fiber, as well as after prolonged periods of fasting. Studies on the gut-brain axis have found elevated levels in some groups, but the results are inconsistent. A high level is therefore not a diagnosis, but a reason to take a look at the fiber content of your diet.

When the proportion is low

Low levels are considered unremarkable. Many people have only small amounts of Alistipes, and other genera from the same family take over its functions. A low level often simply indicates a plant-based diet with moderate amounts of meat and high-fat foods.

What feeds it

This is more about balancing than boosting. If your level is high, shift the balance on your plate: eat more vegetables, legumes, and whole grains, and less red meat, sausage, and very high-fat foods. Plant-based protein sources like lentils, beans, and tofu provide protein and fiber together.

Frequently asked questions

Is a high Alistipes level a sign of stress?
No, that’s not a valid interpretation. Alistipes is often mentioned in studies of the gut-brain axis, but the findings point in different directions. The link with a high-protein, high-fat diet is best established. For questions about stress and mood, consulting a doctor is the right approach.

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Why this value appears in your results

The level shows whether the handoff between lactic acid producers and butyrate producers is working for you. If Anaerostipes is lacking, lactate can build up and shift the pH in the large intestine. In your test results, this genus adds to the picture of your gut barrier and butyrate supply.

When the share is high

Higher levels are considered normal to favorable, especially when Bifidobacteria are also well represented. This points to effective cross-feeding: lactic acid is quickly processed, and the intestinal lining gets butyrate. A high level on its own is not a goal; what matters is how it works with the other groups in your test results.

When the proportion is low

Low levels are observed after antibiotic use and with a low-fiber diet. Lactic acid from other bacteria is then less effectively processed, and the intestinal lining lacks butyrate. People with many lactic acid bacteria but little Anaerostipes sometimes notice increased bloating. The level can be interpreted alongside the gut pH level.

What feeds it

Combine sources of fiber with fermented foods. Oats, barley, psyllium husks, legumes, apples, and onions provide fiber. Yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi provide lactic acid bacteria, whose lactate Anaerostipes processes further. Studies show that this combination works better than any single ingredient on its own. Antibiotics should only be considered after consulting a doctor.

Frequently asked questions

What does cross-feeding in the gut mean?
This means that one bacterium uses another bacterium’s waste product as food. Bifidobacteria produce lactic acid from sugar, and Anaerostipes turns it into butyrate. This creates a chain in which nothing goes to waste. That’s why combining fiber and fermented foods often works better than focusing on just one group.

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Why this value appears in your results

Bacteroides shows how well your gut can handle fiber and protein. Because this genus is so common, it has a noticeable impact on the overall picture of your gut flora. In test results, it serves as an indicator of whether your microbiome is more accustomed to a fiber-rich diet or one high in meat and fat.

When the share is high

High levels are often seen with a diet rich in protein and fat and low in fiber. Bacteroides handles this well and spreads, while specialized fiber-degrading bacteria decline. A high level alone is not a cause for alarm. It becomes interesting only in combination with other findings, for example when butyrate-producing bacteria are also low.

When the proportion is low

Low levels mean that an important generalist is missing. Complex plant fibers are then broken down less effectively, and other bacteria have to take over the work. Very low levels are sometimes observed after antibiotics or with a limited diet. Whether this matters to you is best judged in the context of your diversity and symptoms.

What feeds it

Bacteroides thrives on variety on your plate. Legumes, whole grains, barley, oats, cruciferous vegetables, beetroot, and cooled potatoes or pasta provide the fiber and resistant starch that these bacteria break down. Nuts and seeds are a good addition. If you currently eat little fiber, increase the amount gradually over two to three weeks and drink plenty of water.

Frequently asked questions

Is a high Bacteroides level bad?
No, a single value tells you little. Bacteroides is part of the usual makeup of the large intestine in most people. Higher levels are mainly associated with a diet rich in fat and protein. The overall picture is more informative: the diversity of your gut flora and the proportion of bacteria that produce butyrate.

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Why this value appears in your results

The proportion shows how strongly represented specialists in plant fibers are in your gut. Together with Firmicutes, it describes the basic distribution of your gut flora. Since the two groups share the available space, one value shifts when the other changes. This proportion is for guidance and is not a standalone diagnosis.

When the share is high

A high proportion of the overall flora is often seen with a fiber-rich, plant-focused diet. On its own, this is not a cause for concern. Very high levels are sometimes associated with increased gas production, because gas is produced when fiber is broken down. Whether a high proportion is favorable or unfavorable depends on which species within the group predominate.

When the proportion is low

A low proportion means that other phyla predominate. This is often seen with a low-fiber diet high in meat, fat, and sugar. Since this group does important preliminary work in breaking down fiber, persistently low levels may also leave other bacteria short of food. A single measurement, however, says little about this.

What feeds it

This group thrives on plant fibers. Whole grains, legumes, root vegetables, cabbage, fruits with their skins, and nuts provide exactly that. Rotate the varieties regularly, as different fibers promote different species. Increase the amount gradually over two to three weeks so your gut can adjust, and drink enough water with them.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need more Bacteroidetes or more Firmicutes?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Both phyla are present in almost everyone, and science has not established an ideal ratio. What matters more is whether fiber-degrading species are well represented within each group. A varied plant-based diet supports both groups at the same time.

Why has my value changed since the last test?
The proportions of the major phyla respond to your diet, sometimes within just a few days. Medications, infections, stress and the timing of sample collection also have an effect. Small shifts between two results are therefore normal. A trend only becomes meaningful if it continues in the same direction across several measurements.

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Why this value appears in your results

This value highlights an often-overlooked function of your gut flora and rounds out the overall picture of its function. It complements diversity and butyrate production, since a diverse flora generally also includes more vitamin-producing bacteria. It is explicitly not a substitute for a blood test to assess your vitamin levels.

When the level is high

A high value suggests that many vitamin-producing groups are present in your sample. This is considered a sign of active, diverse flora. However, how much of it your body absorbs depends on absorption in the gut and can’t be determined from this value. Blood tests show your actual vitamin levels.

When the level is low

A low value means that only a few known vitamin-producing groups were detected. This is often associated with low diversity, for example after antibiotic treatment or with a one-sided diet. It doesn’t necessarily indicate a deficiency, since you get most of your vitamins from food. If you suspect a deficiency, blood tests can help.

What affects the level

A varied plant-based diet supports vitamin-producing bacteria: vegetables, legumes, whole grains, nuts and seeds. Fermented foods such as sauerkraut, kefir, yogurt and aged cheese provide additional cultures that produce vitamins. Fiber is the foundation, because these groups can barely function without food. Repeated courses of antibiotics and a very one-sided diet reduce their potential.

Frequently asked questions

Does my gut flora meet my vitamin B12 needs?
No, you shouldn’t rely on that. Although some gut bacteria produce B12, this happens mostly in the large intestine, where absorption is limited. You get what you need from food, or from a supplement if you eat a strictly plant-based diet. A blood test, not a stool test, shows whether you’re getting enough.

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Why this value appears in your results

Diversity helps put your results in context before you look at individual values. It shows how diverse your gut is and how well it can buffer disruptions. Low diversity is frequently observed in studies in cases of a one-sided diet, after antibiotics, and with various chronic conditions.

When the level is high

A high value indicates a diverse microbiome with many species and no single species dominating. This is considered robust: dietary fiber is used in a variety of ways, and disruptions can be better buffered. Very high values are not a seal of approval in themselves, but are often observed in people who eat a varied, plant-rich diet.

When the level is low

A low value means that only a few species dominate the gut. This is often observed with a one-sided or highly processed diet, as well as after antibiotics, with little exercise, and during prolonged stress. The gut then reacts more sensitively to disruptions. Diversity can usually be rebuilt over weeks to months.

What affects the level

A diverse plate creates diversity in the gut. As a rule of thumb, eat as many different plant-based foods as possible each week, such as vegetables, fruit, legumes, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and herbs. Fermented foods like sauerkraut or kefir are a good addition. Regular exercise, time outdoors, good sleep, and limiting alcohol also have a beneficial effect.

Frequently asked questions

How quickly does my bacterial diversity recover?
Initial shifts can appear after just a few days of dietary changes. However, it usually takes weeks to months for diversity to build up steadily, and sometimes longer after antibiotic treatment. What matters most is not a short-term course but a varied, plant-focused diet over the long term. Small steps taken over a long time have a greater effect than brief, strict phases.

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Why this value appears in your results

Bifidobacteria are considered an indicator of a well-nourished gut microbiome. They are sensitive to diet, medication, and stress, so their levels shift early. Their proportion in your test results gives you an indication of how well your fiber intake is working and whether your gut environment is more acidic and stable.

When the share is high

High levels are considered harmless and are usually seen as a sign of a high-fiber diet. People who regularly eat fermented or probiotic products often have levels toward the upper end of the range. They generally do not cause symptoms. Only if you also have severe bloating is it worth looking at the total amount of fermentable foods in your diet.

When the proportion is low

Low levels are often observed after antibiotics, with a low-fiber diet, during periods of high stress, and with increasing age. The intestinal pH often rises as well. This is not a diagnosis, but a cue to take a closer look at your fiber intake and the regularity of your meals.

What feeds it

Bifidobacteria like soluble fiber. Good choices include oats, chicory, Jerusalem artichokes, salsify, onions, leeks, garlic, green bananas, flaxseeds, and legumes. Chilled cooked potatoes and pasta also provide resistant starch. Fermented foods such as plain yogurt, kefir, and mild sauerkraut contain live cultures. Increase your fiber intake gradually over two to three weeks.

Frequently asked questions

Is simply eating yogurt enough?
Yogurt provides live cultures, but they usually only survive temporarily in the gut. Bifidobacteria multiply long-term mainly when they get food. So the key is the combination: fermented foods plus plenty of plant fiber from vegetables, legumes, and whole grains, spread throughout the day.

Why are my levels so low after antibiotics?
Antibiotics affect beneficial microbes as well as the targeted ones. Bifidobacteria are among the more sensitive groups. After treatment, recovery takes several weeks to months for many people. A fiber-rich diet and fermented foods can support this phase, and a second test after about three months can show how things are developing.

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Why this value appears in your results

This value is a sensitive indicator of the fat content of your diet, especially animal fats. Bilophila can respond to dietary changes within just a few days. In a test result, it helps show whether your diet is shifting the environment in your large intestine toward sulfur metabolism. This pattern is often associated with low plant fiber intake.

When the proportion is elevated

Studies often find elevated levels in people who eat a lot of fat and meat, especially animal fat. People also often report strong-smelling gas and sluggish bowel movements. A high value reflects a dietary pattern, not a diagnosis. It’s a good reason to pay closer attention to your sources of fat and fiber for a while.

When the proportion is low

A low level is considered unremarkable and is usually consistent with a moderately low-fat, plant-focused diet. Bilophila then remains a minor player, and most bile acids are reabsorbed in the small intestine. A low value does not need to be changed and is not a sign of a lack of beneficial bacteria.

What you can do

The best way to reduce Bilophila is to focus on the types of fat you eat. Eat less sausage, cream, butter and fried foods, and opt for olive oil, nuts and moderate amounts of sea fish. Legumes, oats, vegetables and fruit provide fiber that supports competing bacteria. Regular meals and exercise support bile flow. A consistently very high-fat diet encourages this bacterium.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to cut out fat completely now?
No. Fat is an important nutrient, and the body needs bile acids for digestion. It’s about quantity and quality: less highly processed animal fat, more plant oils, nuts, and seeds. Rather than cutting fat out radically, it’s usually more important to increase fiber intake at the same time so that fiber-digesting bacteria have more food.

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Why this value appears in your results

The result identifies what lives in your gut. Since Blastocystis occurs in many people without causing symptoms, a positive result on its own is not a finding that requires urgent action. Only when considered alongside your symptoms, the diversity of your gut flora, and the other results can it be determined whether it plays any role at all.

When the proportion is elevated

A clear positive result indicates colonization, but nothing more at first. Some people report abdominal pain, bloating, or changes in bowel habits, while many others notice nothing. Studies even find it more often in people with diverse, plant-based gut flora. If you have new or persistent symptoms, weight loss, or blood in your stool, a doctor should investigate.

When the proportion is low

A negative result means the single-celled organism was not found in this sample. This is an unremarkable result and requires no action. Because shedding varies, a single sample may also miss a colonization. If unexplained symptoms persist, a second sample taken on another day is sometimes tested.

What you can do

It is usually acquired through drinking water, unwashed fruit and vegetables, or inadequate hand hygiene, often while traveling. To prevent it, use clean water, wash fruit and vegetables thoroughly, and wash your hands before eating. Treatment is generally not recommended if there are no symptoms and is a decision for a doctor. A varied, fiber-rich diet strengthens competition in the gut.

Frequently asked questions

Is treatment needed if the result is positive?
If you have no symptoms, the widely accepted answer today is no. Blastocystis is found in a large proportion of healthy people, often for years. Treatment attempts are not always successful and can cause their own side effects. If symptoms persist, healthcare professionals first investigate other explanations before considering the organism.

Can I pass on this single-celled organism?
Blastocystis is transmitted through the fecal-oral route and via contaminated water. As a result, multiple people in the same household sometimes carry it. Careful handwashing after using the toilet and before eating reduces transmission. Since many carriers have no symptoms, routine screening of contacts is generally not recommended.

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Why this value appears in your results

Blautia is a good indicator of the overall stability of your microbiome. Because the genus supplies acetate and absorbs fermentation gases, it plays a role behind the scenes in several ways. The result can help assess whether fiber-degrading bacteria and butyrate producers are working well together in your gut.

When the share is high

Higher levels are generally considered unremarkable to favorable and are often observed with a varied, high-fiber diet. Blautia does not displace other beneficial groups; instead, it supports them. A very high individual level says little on its own. What matters is how it compares with the other groups in your test results.

When the proportion is low

Low levels are observed after antibiotics, with a very one-sided diet, and with low fiber intake. This means less acetate is available as an intermediate product, and butyrate producers lose some of their starting materials. Ongoing stress and little exercise have also been linked to lower levels in studies.

What feeds it

Blautia grows with a variety of plant fibers. Oats, whole grains, legumes, apples, berries, onions, leeks, and root vegetables provide suitable sugars and fibers. Fermented foods such as sauerkraut or yogurt also fit the bill. Regular exercise and consistent meal times further support a stable microbiome.

Frequently asked questions

Does Blautia have anything to do with my weight?
Studies more often observe a higher proportion of Blautia in people with lower body weight and more favorable blood sugar levels. It is unclear whether the bacteria cause this or are simply a result of a fiber-rich diet. The value is therefore a guide, not an explanation for your weight.

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Why this value appears in your results

The value shows whether your gut flora is functioning well, not just looking good in terms of numbers. Studies often observe low butyrate production in people with low-fiber diets and inflammatory bowel symptoms. Together with the pH value, it gives you a picture of how active fiber fermentation is in your colon.

When the level is high

A high value suggests that your gut flora contains plenty of butyrate producers. The gut lining is then well supplied with energy, and the environment remains slightly acidic. This is considered a favorable sign and is often seen with a fiber-rich, plant-focused diet. A high value is no free pass, but it provides a solid foundation for your gut environment.

When the level is low

A low value means that only a few butyrate producers were detected. This is often associated with a low-fiber diet, antibiotic treatment, or little variety in plant foods. The gut lining is then missing its preferred fuel. However, butyrate producers respond well to nourishment: eating more fiber often has an effect within just a few weeks.

What affects the level

Butyrate producers like resistant starch and soluble fiber. Good sources include cooked potatoes, rice, and pasta that have been cooled, as well as oats, barley, legumes, green bananas, flaxseed, and alliums. Berries and nuts also provide nourishment. Consistency matters more than occasional weeks of high fiber intake. Increase the amount gradually so your gut can adjust to increased fermentation.

Frequently asked questions

Is it helpful to take butyrate as a capsule?
Capsules deliver butyrate directly, but often not where it is needed, because some of it is absorbed further up the digestive tract. A more sustainable approach is to feed the bacteria that produce it on site. Fiber and resistant starch from regular foods reliably reach the colon. It is best to make decisions about supplements with medical guidance.

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Why this value appears in your results

The level shows whether these specialized fiber degraders are present in your gut. They break down plant fibers that many other species cannot, thereby expanding butyrate production. Because this genus is rarely found in large amounts in humans, the level is interpreted mainly in the context of the other butyrate producers.

When the share is high

High levels are unusual in humans and are most often observed with a very high-fiber, plant-based diet. They are considered unremarkable, because the genus produces butyrate and breaks down hard-to-access fibers. No adverse effects of high levels have been described. Symptoms cannot be inferred from this.

When the proportion is low

Low or undetectable levels are normal in humans, because this genus makes up only a small part of the gut flora. An undetectable level is therefore not a warning sign. It is more informative to see how well the more common butyrate producers are represented in your results and how diverse your gut flora is overall.

What feeds it

This genus thrives on tough plant fibers. Vegetables with plenty of structure, such as cabbage, fennel, leeks, celery, and carrots, along with whole grains, legumes, nuts, and flaxseed, provide the right material. Eat fruit and vegetables with their skins whenever possible, and vary the types you eat often. Finely ground, heavily processed products, on the other hand, provide this group with little nourishment.

Frequently asked questions

Why is Butyrivibrio known mainly from livestock farming?
The genus was discovered in the rumen of cattle and sheep and studied extensively there because it plays a major role in breaking down grass. It is also found in the human intestine, but in much smaller quantities. That is why many descriptions come from animal research and cannot be transferred directly.

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Why this value appears in your results

The value shows whether and to what extent yeasts are detectable in the stool. It becomes interesting in context: a high fungal finding alongside low levels of protective bacteria and a high pH indicates an altered environment. Considered in isolation, however, a positive finding is common in many people without symptoms and is no reason for overreaction.

When the proportion is elevated

Higher counts are more often observed after antibiotics, with a very high-sugar diet, when taking cortisone, and when the immune system is weakened. Some people report bloating, sugar cravings, or recurring mucosal symptoms at the same time; a definite link has not been scientifically established. The number alone does not support a diagnosis. Persistent symptoms should be assessed by a doctor.

When the proportion is low

A low value or no detection means that yeasts play little role in the stool sample tested. This is an unremarkable finding and requires no action. Because fungi are unevenly distributed in stool, a single sample may also miss them. So if symptoms persist, the clinical picture matters more than the number alone.

What you can do

Yeast growth is encouraged by consuming a lot of free sugars, white flour, alcohol, and frequent snacks, as well as by antibiotics, which reduce bacterial competition. The main way to keep it in check is indirectly: less sugar, more vegetables, legumes, and whole grains, fermented foods, and regular intervals between meals. Strict elimination diets that exclude fruit and grains are not necessary.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to go on a Candida diet now?
The classic Candida diet, which almost completely eliminates sugar, fruit, and grains, is not well supported by scientific evidence; convincing studies are lacking so far. The moderate approach has been studied more: significantly less free sugar and alcohol, and more variety in plant foods. This strengthens the bacteria that keep yeasts in check.

Does finding fungi in stool automatically mean there’s a disease?
No. Candida albicans can be found in the stool of many healthy people without causing symptoms. The idea of a widespread intestinal fungal epidemic is not supported by scientific evidence. Your result is therefore always considered alongside your symptoms and the rest of your flora profile. That doesn’t make it worthless; it just needs context.

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Why this value appears in your results

Reporting this separately shows whether any yeasts are present and which group predominates. Identifying the species is important for medical decisions because species differ in their susceptibility. For you as the reader, the result mainly indicates the state of the environment in which yeasts thrive.

When the proportion is elevated

Higher counts are interpreted similarly to those of Candida albicans: they are more common after antibiotics, with a sugar-rich diet, and when immune defenses are weakened. A high result alone is not a diagnosis. If persistent symptoms occur at the same time or you have an immune deficiency, a doctor should assess the finding, because the exact species matters in that case.

When the proportion is low

No detection or only a small amount is an unremarkable result. Yeasts don’t have to be present in the gut, and their absence is not a deficiency. Since fungi are unevenly distributed in stool, a single sample may miss them. If symptoms persist, repeating the test makes more sense than taking action without a clear reason.

What you can do

As with all yeasts, plenty of free sugar, white flour, alcohol, and frequent snacking promote growth, as do antibiotics and a depleted bacterial flora. A varied selection of vegetables, legumes, whole grains, nuts, and fermented foods, along with clear breaks between meals, can help. The goal is an environment where bacteria compete with yeasts for space and food.

Frequently asked questions

Are these species worse than Candida albicans?
Not necessarily. In the gut of someone without symptoms, they are also considered fellow inhabitants. A difference only becomes apparent in infections that require treatment: some species respond less well to certain antifungal medications, which is why precise identification is then important. This decision is made by a medical professional, not on the basis of a stool test alone.

Why isn't a specific species listed here?
Laboratories often group yeasts other than Candida albicans together because identifying the exact species is more complicated and rarely makes a difference in everyday practice. If treatment is being considered, the species can be identified more precisely. The group designation, together with the other results, is enough to assess your gut environment.

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Why this value appears in your results

The result shows whether this rare, slow-growing species can be detected in you at all. Because its presence is strongly influenced by heredity, it is less easy to control through diet than other genera. In the test results, it serves as one piece of the picture of your metabolism-related microbiome.

When the share is high

Higher levels are more often observed in studies among people with lower body weight and favorable blood lipid levels. Whether the species contributes to this or both are inherited together is unclear. A high level is not considered undesirable. There is also no target range you need to aim for for this species.

When the proportion is low

Low or undetectable levels are common and not concerning on their own. Christensenella minuta is present in only very small numbers in many people, and detection also depends on the sensitivity of the method. Because its presence is partly inherited, a low level cannot be changed arbitrarily.

What feeds it

This species is difficult to nourish directly, since its presence is strongly influenced by heredity. Studies suggest it benefits from a fiber-rich, plant-forward diet with whole grains, legumes, nuts, and vegetables, as well as high overall diversity. Do not expect rapid changes, and do not treat the value as a measure of your dietary success.

Frequently asked questions

Can I specifically increase Christensenella?
Only to a limited extent. Its presence is substantially influenced by heredity, as twin studies clearly show. A varied, fiber-rich diet creates favorable conditions, but does not guarantee detection. If the species is absent in your case, that is not a deficiency you need to correct, nor a sign of a problem.

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Why this value appears in your results

The Citrobacter value is one indicator of how resilient your gut flora is. As long as protective bacteria are firmly established, this genus remains small. If it increases, there has often been room for it recently. That is why the result is never read in isolation, but alongside bacterial diversity and the balance between protective and harmful microbes.

When the proportion is elevated

An elevated value is typically observed after antibiotics, a gastrointestinal infection, or a very one-sided diet. Symptoms are not inevitable; many people notice nothing. It makes sense to deliberately nourish the protective flora for a few weeks and check the value again at a follow-up.

When the proportion is low

A low value or no detection is unremarkable and requires no action. Citrobacter is a minor inhabitant of the gut, not part of its basic makeup. If the genus is absent, that is more likely a sign that protective bacteria are filling the available space well and the environment is stable.

What you can do

Citrobacter gains ground when readily available sugars are abundant and fiber is lacking. Frequent antibiotic use also favors this genus. By contrast, bacteria that produce short-chain fatty acids crowd it out. Feed them chicory, onions, leeks, Jerusalem artichokes, oats, and legumes. A daily spoonful of flaxseed and regular exercise round things out.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to take anything if my Citrobacter level is elevated?
Generally, no. An elevated value is an indication of the gut environment, not a treatment instruction. The most effective approach is through diet: more plant-based variety, less sugar, and regular meals. Medication is considered only after a doctor’s assessment and when symptoms warrant it, not based on a lab value alone.

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Why this value appears in your results

Unlike the other bacteria in this group, Clostridioides difficile is not interpreted merely as an indicator of the gut environment. A positive result should be evaluated by a doctor, especially if toxins were also detected or if you have taken antibiotics in the past few weeks. That is why this bacterium is always listed separately in the results and assessed on its own.

When the proportion is elevated

A positive result or an elevated value is a clear signal to seek medical advice. This is not an emergency and there is no need to panic: many people who test positive have no symptoms, and results that are toxin-negative are usually considered colonization. The important thing is for a doctor to assess the result together with your symptoms.

When the proportion is low

A negative result is normal and expected. It means the bacterium was absent or present only below the detection limit at the time the sample was taken. It is not a guarantee for the future, since things can change after antibiotic treatment. For now, a negative result is simply unremarkable.

What you can do

This bacterium is more likely to find room to grow when antibiotics thin out the rest of the flora; hospital stays and older age are also often associated with it. A dense, diverse gut flora helps prevent this: plenty of vegetables, legumes, whole grains, and fermented foods. Take antibiotics only when prescribed by a doctor. If the bacterium is confirmed, only your healthcare provider should decide what to do next.

Frequently asked questions

My report shows C. difficile. What should I do now?
Take the report to your primary care doctor and explain whether you have symptoms and whether you’ve taken antibiotics recently. The practice can clarify whether toxins were detected and whether further tests are advisable. Until then, eat normally, drink plenty of fluids, and don’t self-medicate.

I have the germ, but no symptoms at all. Is that possible?
Yes, that can happen. Some people carry Clostridioides difficile in their gut without noticing anything. Findings without toxins are usually considered simple colonization. Still, it’s worth discussing with your doctor so they can assess your result in light of your medical history.

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Why this value appears in your results

The total clostridia count is a practical indicator of how much undigested protein reaches the large intestine. A higher proportion often points to a diet that is very meat-heavy or low in fiber. Together with the pH value and butyrate producers, it gives an overall picture of whether putrefaction or fermentation predominates in the gut.

When the proportion is elevated

An elevated group value is often seen with a high-protein, low-fiber diet, as well as after antibiotics. Some people then report foul-smelling gas or changes in bowel movements. The value alone is not a diagnosis. Instead, it’s a reason to look at your diet over the past few weeks and add more plant-based fiber.

When the proportion is low

A low value in this group is usually considered unremarkable. However, since beneficial butyrate producers also belong to the clostridia, a very low result may indicate low overall diversity. It’s worth checking the other values in the report, such as Faecalibacterium prausnitzii and bacterial diversity.

What you can do

Large portions of meat, lots of processed meat, few vegetables, and prolonged sitting favor the harmful side of the group. You can reduce it by spreading protein across several smaller portions and including plant sources such as lentils or chickpeas. Cooked and cooled potatoes, oats, and barley provide resistant starch, which gives beneficial clostridia an advantage.

Frequently asked questions

Are clostridia always harmful?
No. The name refers to a group with very different members. Some are among the most important butyrate producers in the large intestine and are considered highly beneficial. Only some members of the group are heavily involved in protein breakdown, producing substances considered harmful. The combined value in the report does not distinguish between these types.

Does this value have anything to do with Clostridioides difficile?
Only indirectly. Clostridioides difficile is tested and reported separately because this bacterium is assessed differently from the rest of the group. An elevated combined value for Clostridium species does not indicate whether C. difficile is present. It’s best to read the two results independently.

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Why this value appears in your results

Collinsella responds noticeably to the ratio of starch and sugar to fiber in your diet. This makes its level a useful indicator of your eating pattern. Because studies have assessed this genus inconsistently, it’s best to consider it alongside fiber-degrading bacteria and your bacterial diversity.

When the share is high

Elevated levels are more often observed with a diet low in fiber and high in starch and sugar. In some studies, they occurred alongside unfavorable blood lipid levels; in others, they did not. A high level is therefore not a diagnosis, but a reason to check the amount of whole grains, vegetables, and legumes on your plate.

When the proportion is low

Low levels are considered unremarkable and are often observed with a fiber-rich diet. Collinsella is not a key bacterium whose absence leaves a gap. Only if bifidobacteria and other Actinobacteria are also very low is it worth looking at past antibiotic use and your diet.

What feeds it

Here, the focus is usually on reducing it rather than promoting it. A higher proportion of fiber reliably lowers Collinsella in studies: choose whole grains instead of refined flour, legumes, vegetables with every meal, and fruit instead of sweets. Foods rich in polyphenols, such as berries, olive oil, and green tea, also fit the picture.

Frequently asked questions

My Collinsella level is elevated. What does that mean?
This usually means that a lot of starch and sugar, and comparatively little fiber, are reaching your colon. The genus grows well under these conditions. Whether a high proportion has any further significance is disputed in studies. In practice, the level mainly gives you feedback on your diet.

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Why this value appears in your results

Coprococcus adds to the picture of your butyrate supply alongside better-known genera. Because it depends on plant fibers, its level reflects your fiber intake fairly directly. In the results, the genus also represents those bacteria that are particularly often studied in research on the gut-brain axis.

When the share is high

Higher levels are usually observed with a varied, fiber-rich diet and are considered unremarkable. They suggest that enough substrate is reaching the colon and that butyrate production is underway. There is no target level you need to aim for. It is more meaningful to see whether several butyrate producers are well represented at the same time.

When the proportion is low

Low levels are often observed with low-fiber diets, after antibiotics, and with little physical activity. Studies on the gut-brain axis also found lower levels in groups experiencing emotional distress. Nothing can be concluded from this for you personally. A low level is mainly a prompt to increase the variety of fiber on your plate.

What feeds it

Coprococcus feeds on plant fibers. Oats, barley, whole-grain bread, legumes, apples, berries, carrots, and broccoli provide suitable food, as do flaxseeds and psyllium husks. Variety is key: 30 different plant foods per week is a good guideline. Regular exercise and enough sleep have also been linked to a more stable gut flora.

Frequently asked questions

Does Coprococcus affect my mood?
It is not possible to say that. In large observational studies, Coprococcus was found less often on average in groups with lower quality of life. Such associations apply to groups, not individuals, and the direction is unclear. If your mood is troubling you, consulting a doctor or psychotherapist is the right step.

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Why this value appears in your results

The Essential report presents the gut-brain axis as an assessment because several values in your results contribute to this area together: diversity, butyrate producers, mucosa-associated species, and harmful microbes. The assessment summarizes how stable the environment is that supports communication between the gut and nervous system. It is a classification, not a statement about your mental health.

If the pattern is atypical

An unusual assessment means that several of the values involved deviate from a stable pattern, such as few butyrate producers combined with low diversity. Research has observed such patterns more often in people with high stress levels or restless sleep. This is an observation, not a statement about cause and effect. It may be helpful to review your diet, sleep, and recovery, and to talk with a doctor.

If the pattern is unremarkable

An unremarkable assessment means that the values involved are within the expected range: solid diversity, enough butyrate producers, and no notable harmful microbes. This describes a gut environment that does not place any additional strain on communication with the nervous system. This assessment says nothing about your mood, concentration, or emotional well-being.

What keeps this axis stable

A regular routine helps keep the axis stable: set mealtimes, enough sleep, and outdoor exercise. A wide variety of plant fibers from vegetables, fruit, legumes, and whole grains, as well as fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut, can help. Ongoing stress, too little sleep, lots of alcohol, and highly processed foods can have an adverse effect.

Frequently asked questions

Can I improve my mood through my gut?
The connection between the gut and the brain is an active area of research. Studies have observed that diet, sleep, and exercise affect both gut flora and well-being. This does not establish a clear cause-and-effect relationship. These findings are not a substitute for medical or psychological advice. If you are experiencing ongoing distress, please contact a specialist.

What does serotonin have to do with the gut?
A large proportion of the body's serotonin is produced in the intestinal lining, where it mainly regulates gut movement. This serotonin does not reach the brain because it cannot cross the blood-brain barrier. So the often-repeated idea of a feel-good hormone from the gut is an oversimplification. Research is looking at other pathways, such as the vagus nerve and short-chain fatty acids.

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Why this value appears in your results

In the Essential report, the gut-immune axis brings together several individual values: barrier density, your butyrate producers, mucus-degrading species, and the proportion of harmful microbes with pro-inflammatory cell wall components. Instead of interpreting each value individually, the assessment shows you whether the overall pattern seems more calm or more irritated.

If the pattern is atypical

A noticeable assessment means that several values point toward an irritated environment, such as few butyrate producers alongside elevated levels of harmful microbes. Studies observe these patterns more often with a low-fiber diet, after antibiotics, or during prolonged stress. This does not establish inflammation in the medical sense. Persistent symptoms should be checked by a doctor.

If the pattern is unremarkable

A normal assessment points to a stable barrier and a microbiome that tends to calm the immune system rather than irritate it: enough butyrate producers, an intact mucus layer, and few harmful microbes. This is a good starting point. Symptoms may still have other causes and should be checked by a doctor if needed.

What keeps this axis stable

A fiber-rich, varied diet helps keep the axis stable: oats, barley, legumes, vegetables, fruit, and nuts provide the material for butyrate production. Fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi add variety. Getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, and limiting alcohol support the barrier. Highly processed foods, lots of sugar, and frequent antibiotic use without a recovery phase can have negative effects.

Frequently asked questions

What does an unusual gut-immune axis mean for me?
It is a general indicator, not a diagnosis. Several values in your profile point in the same direction, often in connection with low fiber intake or recent antibiotic use. The usual first step is to eat more fiber for a few weeks. If you have symptoms such as blood in your stool, unintentional weight loss, or severe pain, consult a doctor.

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Why this value appears in your results

The pH value is a simple indicator of how well fiber is being processed in your gut. It complements the bacterial counts with a functional perspective: not just who is there, but what is actually happening. Together with butyrate production potential, it gives a well-rounded picture of your fermentation activity.

When the level is high

A high, or rather more alkaline, value indicates low acid production. This is often seen with a diet low in fiber and high in protein and fat. Putrefactive processes then gain ground, and undesirable microbes find more favorable conditions. The value can also rise after antibiotic treatment or when intestinal transit is very rapid.

When the level is low

A low, or acidic, value generally indicates active fiber fermentation and is considered favorable. However, very low values can also indicate excessive fermentation, for example when sugar or lactose reaches the large intestine undigested. Bloating and loose stools are then more common.

What affects the level

Fiber lowers pH: oats, barley, legumes, vegetables, berries, flaxseed, and cooled potatoes or rice with resistant starch. Fermented foods provide acid-producing bacteria. In the opposite direction, high amounts of meat, sausage, alcohol, and highly processed products can have an effect. Drinking enough and eating regular meals support steady fermentation.

Frequently asked questions

Can I measure my gut pH myself using test strips?
Pharmacy test strips provide only a rough guide. The pH value fluctuates throughout the day and depends greatly on what you have eaten recently. A laboratory analysis uses standardized measurements and can be interpreted alongside the other results in your report. Home measurements therefore say little about your gut environment.

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Why this value appears in your results

In the Essential report, this assessment summarizes values that jointly contribute to metabolism: the balance of the main bacterial groups, your butyrate production potential, the fiber-degrading bacteria, and species involved in bile acid metabolism. At a glance, it shows you how well your microbiome converts plant fibers into usable substances.

If the pattern is atypical

An atypical assessment means that several contributing values deviate from a stable pattern, such as having few fiber-degrading bacteria despite many species that thrive on fat and protein. Studies observe these patterns more often with low-fiber, highly processed diets and associate them with less favorable sugar and fat metabolism. This is not a diagnosis.

If the pattern is unremarkable

A normal assessment suggests that your microbiome converts fiber into short-chain fatty acids effectively and that the groups involved are represented in a balanced way. This is a favorable starting point for satiety and energy metabolism. Body weight and blood values are also affected by exercise, sleep, diet, medication, and genetics.

What keeps this axis stable

A high-fiber diet with as many different plants as possible each week helps keep this axis stable: legumes, oats, barley, vegetables, berries, nuts, and seeds. Resistant starch from cooled potatoes, pasta, or rice is especially beneficial. Regular exercise and longer overnight periods without eating also help. Sugary drinks, constant snacking, and highly processed ready-made foods can have a negative effect.

Frequently asked questions

Can I lose weight through my gut microbiome?
It’s not that simple. The gut microbiome affects how much energy is obtained from food and how satiety signals work. But it is only one factor alongside diet, exercise, sleep, medication, and genetics. A high-fiber diet changes the microbiome within weeks and supports satiety. This does not mean it guarantees weight loss.

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Why this value appears in your results

Your enterotype gives a broad picture of your findings and often matches your dietary style. In research, the concept is now considered an oversimplification: the transitions are gradual, and the boundaries between types vary depending on the analysis method. So treat your type as a guide, not a fixed classification.

What affects the level

Enterotype is mainly shaped by diet over the long term. Plenty of fiber from whole grains, legumes, vegetables, and fruit favors Prevotella-dominated patterns. A diet high in fat and meat shifts the balance toward Bacteroides. Short-term changes show initial effects within days, but a stable shift takes weeks to months of consistent habits.

Frequently asked questions

Is one enterotype better than another?
It’s not that simple. No type is considered healthy or unhealthy in itself. The Prevotella type is more often observed with a high-fiber diet, which is generally considered beneficial. But your diversity, the balance of beneficial and harmful microbes, and your butyrate production are more informative than the type.

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Why this value appears in your results

Desulfovibrio is included in the results because its proportion says a lot about the balance of protein and fiber in your diet. Sulfate reducers are found more often when meals include lots of meat, sausage, and additives containing sulfates, and lack plant fiber. The level also helps explain foul-smelling gas, which many people find distressing.

When the proportion is elevated

A higher proportion is often seen with a diet that is high in protein and low in fiber. A stronger odor from intestinal gas is typical. A high level alone does not indicate a disease, but rather suggests that more sulfur metabolism than fiber metabolism is taking place in the large intestine. It’s worth taking a calm look at your diet over the past few weeks.

When the proportion is low

A low proportion is considered normal. Desulfovibrio then remains a minor group, and hydrogen in the large intestine is more available to butyrate producers. A very low level has no significance as a disease marker and does not need to be raised. It usually goes with a plant-based diet rich in fiber.

What you can do

The best way to reduce Desulfovibrio is through your diet. Eat less red meat and sausage, and more legumes, oats, barley, flaxseed, and colorful vegetables, which provide fiber that other bacteria use to produce butyrate. Watch out for sulfite-containing additives in dried fruit, wine, and processed foods. A high-fat, low-fiber diet and lack of exercise encourage this bacterium.

Frequently asked questions

Why do my farts smell so bad?
The smell usually comes from hydrogen sulfide, which sulfate reducers such as Desulfovibrio produce from sulfur-containing protein building blocks. Meat, eggs, cabbage, and additives containing sulfites provide the raw materials. Reducing your protein intake a little and eating more plant-based fiber often leads to a change after a few weeks. If the symptoms persist, it is a good idea to talk to a doctor.

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Why this value appears in your results

Dorea helps put gas production in your large intestine into context. Where a lot of hydrogen is produced, other groups need enough capacity to break it down. In your results, the level also indicates how much easily fermentable sugar is present in your diet.

When the share is high

Elevated levels are more commonly observed with diets high in sugar and white flour, and some studies have linked them to bloating. This association is not consistently supported by evidence. A high level on its own is not a problem. Along with low levels of butyrate producers, it may point to an overall low-fiber diet.

When the proportion is low

Low levels are considered unremarkable. Dorea is not a keystone bacterium whose absence leaves a gap, because many other groups perform its functions. Only if other Lachnospiraceae levels are also low is it worth reviewing your fiber intake and any recent antibiotic use. Otherwise, you can take note of this result without concern.

What feeds it

Because Dorea mainly uses simple sugars, the goal here is less about promoting it and more about restoring balance. Choose complex carbohydrates instead of white flour and sweets: whole grains, oats, legumes, and vegetables. If bloating bothers you, it often helps to split large portions, eat slowly, and chew thoroughly.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to lower an elevated Dorea level?
Not directly. Dorea is part of the normal gut flora, and there is no established target range. Elevated levels are observed mainly with diets high in sugar. Rather than fighting a single genus, it makes more sense to increase your intake of whole grains, vegetables, and legumes, then check again later.

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Why this value appears in your results

The index combines many individual values into an overview. It shows you how far your results deviate from the typical pattern, without requiring you to assess each bacterial group individually. Such shifts are often observed in studies of persistent digestive problems, after antibiotics, and with an unbalanced diet.

When the level is high

A high value indicates a marked deviation from the usual pattern. This often involves low diversity, few butyrate producers, and more harmful microbes. This is often observed after antibiotic treatment, with a low-fiber diet, heavy alcohol use, or ongoing stress. Whether this causes symptoms varies from person to person.

When the level is low

A low value means your pattern is close to what is found in many people without symptoms. The groups are evenly distributed, and diversity is good. This does not rule out symptoms, since digestive problems often have other causes, such as stress, enzyme deficiencies, or bowel motility.

What affects the level

The most effective levers are diet and lifestyle. A variety of plant foods throughout the week, along with legumes, whole grains, vegetables, nuts, and fermented foods, help build beneficial groups. Less alcohol and fewer highly processed foods, regular exercise, sleep, and breaks all work in the same direction. Take antibiotics only as prescribed by a doctor. Expect changes to take weeks to months.

Frequently asked questions

Is dysbiosis a recognized diagnosis?
No. Dysbiosis is a descriptive term from microbiome research, not a standalone medical diagnosis. There is no universally accepted definition of exactly where an imbalance begins. The value is useful as a guide and as a starting point for dietary changes. Persistent or severe symptoms should be assessed by a doctor.

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Why this value appears in your results

This level is included in the test result because Eggerthella lenta shows how strongly the gut influences the metabolism of medicines and plant compounds. For people who take medication regularly, this offers an additional perspective. A significant increase is also considered an indication of an environment with little fiber and a lot of animal protein.

When the proportion is elevated

Elevated levels are more often observed with a high-protein, low-fiber diet and occasionally after antibiotic treatment. Eggerthella lenta then grows in a gap left by other bacteria. In people taking digoxin, a high level can affect the absorption of the active ingredient. Please always discuss medication questions with your doctor.

When the proportion is low

A low level is considered unremarkable. The bacterium is not a necessary component of a stable microbiome, and a low-level finding does not need to be corrected. Other species in the gut also convert plant compounds. A low level is usually consistent with a fiber-rich diet and good bacterial diversity.

What you can do

Eggerthella lenta can be reduced by eating more plant-based fiber: oats, barley, legumes, flaxseed, vegetables, and berries. These feed butyrate producers, which compete for the same habitat. Fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir, or sauerkraut are a good addition. The bacterium is encouraged by a high intake of animal protein, low fiber intake, and repeated courses of antibiotics without a recovery phase afterward.

Frequently asked questions

Can this bacterium make my medications ineffective?
Eggerthella lenta can chemically alter certain active ingredients in the gut; this is best documented for digoxin. This does not affect all medications, nor does it affect everyone. Never stop taking anything or change a dose on your own. Bring the test result to your doctor and ask whether it has any bearing on your treatment.

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Why this value appears in your results

In test results, Enterobacter is a companion finding: it rarely increases on its own, usually rising alongside other Enterobacteriaceae. That is precisely where its value lies. If the whole group is elevated, this suggests a shift in the gut environment. If only Enterobacter is slightly elevated, it is usually just a snapshot with little significance.

When the proportion is elevated

An elevated level often appears after antibiotics, with a sugar-rich diet, or during periods of high stress. Symptoms are not necessarily present. The result becomes meaningful only in context: if Klebsiella, Citrobacter, or Proteus are also elevated and butyrate producers are low, it is worth taking a closer look at the diet.

When the proportion is low

Little or no Enterobacter is a good sign and requires no further action. The genus is an opportunistic colonizer; its absence suggests that protective bacteria are holding their place on the mucous membrane. A low level is not a deficiency and does not need to be made up for.

What you can do

Simple sugars, processed foods, a lack of plant variety, and repeated courses of antibiotics promote its growth. The genus declines when competition increases: eat vegetables of several colors every day, legumes two to three times a week, whole grains instead of white flour, as well as nuts and seeds. Fermented foods such as sauerkraut juice or plain yogurt also introduce additional lactic acid bacteria.

Frequently asked questions

Is Enterobacter the same as enterococci?
No, the names just sound similar. Enterococci are lactic acid bacteria and are listed separately in test results. Enterobacter, on the other hand, belongs to the Enterobacteriaceae family, along with E. coli and Klebsiella. The two values appear in different sections of your test results and are assessed differently.

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Why this value appears in your results

Enterococci are considered indicators of the gut environment. They increase when the balance shifts, for example after antibiotics or with a very high-sugar diet. The level therefore adds to the picture provided by protective groups, putrefactive flora, and pH. On its own, a single number says little; in context, it becomes much more informative.

When the proportion is elevated

Significantly elevated levels are often observed after antibiotic treatment because enterococci are resistant and quickly occupy the spaces left behind. A lot of sugar, alcohol, and little plant fiber also encourage them. Some people report bloating and changes in stool consistency. The result is an indication of a shifted environment, not a diagnosis.

When the proportion is low

Low levels are unremarkable. Enterococci are not among the groups you want to deliberately increase, and their absence does not leave a gap. The fiber-degrading bacteria, butyrate producers, and overall diversity are more important for assessment. It is not usual to take action solely because of a low enterococcus level.

What you can do

Their growth is encouraged by frequent servings of sugar, alcohol, a low-fiber diet, and repeated courses of antibiotics. You can reduce them by feeding the protective groups: a variety of vegetables, legumes, whole grains, nuts, and resistant starch from cooled potatoes. Fermented foods bring in competing cultures. Regular meals and proper breaks between meals support the shift.

Frequently asked questions

Are enterococci in stool dangerous?
In moderate numbers, they are part of the normal gut flora in many people and are considered harmless. They are mainly described as problematic when they enter wounds, the urinary tract, or the bloodstream in a hospital setting. A stool test does not reflect this situation. If you have a fever or persistent symptoms, a doctor should assess them.

Why are my enterococci so high after antibiotics?
Many enterococcus strains are resistant to commonly used agents. When more sensitive neighbors disappear, more space and food become available, and the hardier species spread. For many people, things settle down over weeks to months as the protective groups get food again. A follow-up test after about three months shows the trend.

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Why this value appears in your results

E. coli is a good indicator of the balance in the large intestine. Because it multiplies quickly, its levels are sensitive to changes in diet, antibiotics, and travel. The result tells the lab whether the standard flora is stable or whether the balance between protective and harmful bacteria has shifted.

When the proportion is elevated

An elevated result initially means that E. coli has found more room than usual. This is often observed after antibiotics, with a low-fiber diet, or after gastrointestinal infections. A single high result is no cause for concern. It only becomes significant alongside other abnormalities in the report, such as low levels of butyrate producers or an altered pH.

When the proportion is low

Very low or no E. coli at all is also noteworthy. In that case, the gut lacks a bacterium that consumes oxygen and regularly keeps the immune system active. This is often observed after prolonged courses of antibiotics or with a very limited diet. Usually, its levels recover on their own once the diet becomes more varied.

What you can do

Lots of sugar, white flour, and alcohol give E. coli room to grow, as do too little exercise and too little fiber. It is mainly kept in check indirectly: vegetables, legumes, oats, and flaxseed feed butyrate producers and slightly lower the gut pH. Fermented foods like sauerkraut or kefir are a good addition. Regular meals and enough sleep also help keep things stable.

Frequently asked questions

My report lists E. coli under harmful bacteria. Should I be worried?
No. The group label in the report is a catch-all category, not a judgment about your health. E. coli is part of the normal gut flora in almost everyone and serves useful functions there. The amount is always assessed in relation to the other values. Discuss any abnormal results with your doctor at your own pace.

Is this the same E. coli you hear about in the news?
Usually not. The name covers many different strains. The vast majority live harmlessly in the large intestine. Only individual strains are associated with foodborne infections, and tests specifically look for those separately. A normal E. coli value in a microbiome test says nothing about these special forms.

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Why this value appears in your results

This value is one of the key indicators of butyrate supply in the large intestine. Together with Faecalibacterium prausnitzii and Roseburia, this species accounts for a large share of butyrate production. Because it responds directly to the amount of starch and fiber in your food, the value reflects your diet over the past few weeks.

When the share is high

High levels are considered favorable and are often observed with a diet rich in starch and fiber. They suggest that enough fermentable material is reaching the large intestine. No upper threshold at which a high level is considered harmful is known. Symptoms cannot be inferred from a high level.

When the proportion is low

Low levels are observed after antibiotics, with a low-fiber or highly processed diet, and frequently in studies of chronic inflammatory bowel disease. When this species is absent, some butyrate production is lost, and the cells of the intestinal lining get less of their preferred fuel. A low individual value is not a finding in itself.

What feeds it

This species thrives on starch. Oats, barley, whole-grain bread, legumes, and cooked and cooled potatoes, pasta, or rice provide plenty of it, including in resistant form. Green bananas and flaxseeds are good additions. Increase the amount over two to three weeks and drink enough water. Periods with very little fiber can cause levels to drop relatively quickly.

Frequently asked questions

Why is Eubacterium rectale called Agathobacter in some test results?
The species was reclassified following genetic studies and has since been called Agathobacter rectalis. Many laboratories and studies still use the old name because it is better known. In both cases, the same bacterium is meant. So if you encounter both names, you don’t need to consider them separately.

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Why this value appears in your results

The level is considered one of the most informative individual findings for the butyrate supply to your intestinal lining. Because the species is sensitive to oxygen and disruption, it is often used as an indicator of the overall state of the gut flora. Studies frequently observe low levels in chronic inflammatory bowel diseases.

When the share is high

High levels are considered favorable and are often observed with a fiber-rich, plant-based diet. No upper limit at which an excess is considered harmful is known. If your level is in the upper range, that suggests enough fermentable material is reaching the large intestine and that oxygen levels there are low.

When the proportion is low

Low levels are observed after antibiotics, with a low-fiber diet, after preparation for a colonoscopy, and during periods of severe stress. Studies also frequently find low levels in chronic inflammatory bowel diseases. A low level is not a diagnosis on its own, but it’s a good reason to take a closer look at your fiber intake.

What feeds it

Resistant starch is especially beneficial: cooked and cooled potatoes, pasta, or rice, along with legumes, green bananas, and oatmeal. It also thrives on pectin from apples, carrots, and citrus fruits. Use several fiber sources at the same time and increase the amount gradually. Regular exercise and enough sleep are also helpful, while alcohol and highly processed foods tend to have the opposite effect.

Frequently asked questions

Why is my level so low after a course of antibiotics?
This species is particularly sensitive. Antibiotics hit it hard, and because it cannot tolerate oxygen, it needs a stable gut environment to regrow afterward. For many people, this takes several weeks to months. A fiber-rich diet with resistant starch supports its return, but cannot guarantee it.

Can you buy Faecalibacterium as a probiotic?
Not much so far. The bacterium dies within minutes when exposed to air, making production and storage very difficult. Research is being done on relevant products, but they are not yet widely available. The practical approach is through diet, because fibers that reach the large intestine support existing populations.

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Why this value appears in your results

Firmicutes make up a large part of the gut flora in many people. Their proportion shows how strongly the group of fiber utilizers and butyrate producers is represented in your gut. Together with Bacteroidetes, this gives a rough picture of the overall distribution. The value is a guide, not a standalone statement about a specific species.

When the share is high

A high proportion of the total flora means Firmicutes outnumber the other groups. This is often observed with a diet low in fiber and high in fat and sugar. A link to greater energy extraction from food has been discussed, but is considered scientifically controversial. Which species dominate within the group is more informative than its overall proportion.

When the proportion is low

A low proportion means that other strains, usually Bacteroidetes, make up a larger share. On its own, this is not a warning sign. It’s worth looking more closely if the group’s known butyrate producers are also underrepresented, as your intestinal lining may then be missing some of its preferred energy source.

What feeds it

Beneficial members of this group feed on plant fibers. Oats, barley, legumes, flaxseeds, and nuts provide plenty, while cooked and cooled potatoes or rice also provide resistant starch. Try to eat as many different plants as possible over the course of the week. Regular meals, enough sleep, and exercise can help, while highly processed products high in sugar may have the opposite effect.

Frequently asked questions

Is a high Firmicutes proportion bad?
Not necessarily. Firmicutes is a very large group containing many different species. What matters is the group’s composition, not just its overall abundance. So look at the individual species in your report, especially the butyrate producers. The overall proportion provides context; it is not a verdict on your gut microbiota.

What does Firmicutes have to do with my weight?
An association between the Firmicutes-to-Bacteroidetes ratio and body weight was described in early studies. Newer research has not consistently found this pattern, and the claim is now considered controversial. So use the value as a rough indication, not as an explanation for your weight.

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Why this value appears in your results

The ratio shows which of the two major groups predominates in your sample. Studies have linked it to dietary patterns, weight, and energy extraction from food, although findings have been inconsistent. So treat the value as a rough indication and consider it alongside diversity and butyrate production.

When the level is high

A high ratio means that Firmicutes predominate over Bacteroidetes. Older studies observed this more often in people with obesity, but newer research has not consistently found this link. A high value may also simply indicate a diet rich in starch and fiber. On its own, it says little about your body weight.

When the level is low

A low ratio means that Bacteroidetes predominate. This is often observed with a protein- and fat-rich, Western-style diet, and sometimes after antibiotic treatment. A low value is neither good nor bad on its own. Diversity, butyrate-production potential, and the proportion of harmful microbes in the same report are more informative.

What affects the level

The ratio shifts mainly through diet. Fiber from whole grains, legumes, vegetables, and resistant starch promotes many Firmicutes groups. A diet high in protein and fat favors Bacteroidetes. Rather than aiming for a target number, it’s worth focusing on plant-based variety: both groups benefit from a balanced mix.

Frequently asked questions

Can I tell from the F/B ratio whether I’m gaining weight?
No. The relationship between this ratio and body weight has been studied extensively, and findings have been inconsistent. Some studies find a connection, while others do not. Weight depends on many factors, including diet, physical activity, sleep, and genetics. This value is one piece of the overall picture, not a prediction of what the scale will show.

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Why this value appears in your results

If you regularly experience bloating or abdominal pressure after eating, this value can help put it into perspective. It shows whether your gut microbiome is calculated to produce a lot of gas or is relatively quiet. This gives you an indication of whether a time-limited trial of a low-FODMAP diet might be worthwhile. The value does not prove an intolerance; that requires tracking your symptoms and, if necessary, consulting a doctor.

When the level is high

A high value suggests that your gut microbiome breaks down fermentable carbohydrates quickly and extensively. This produces more gas, which can be accompanied by bloating, audible bowel sounds, and a distended abdomen. Typical sources include fructans from wheat, onions, and garlic; galactans from legumes; lactose from dairy products; fructose from apples, pears, and honey; and polyols from stone fruits and sweeteners such as sorbitol. Only your own experience can show whether this bothers you in everyday life.

When the level is low

A low value means that your gut microbiome produces relatively little gas from these carbohydrates. If you experience discomfort after eating, other factors are more likely to be the cause, such as eating too quickly, large portions, high-fat foods, stress, or an enzyme deficiency like lactose intolerance. A low value is no reason to avoid high-FODMAP foods. Onions, legumes, and wheat products provide valuable nourishment for your bacteria, so feel free to eat plenty of them.

What affects the level

Large portions of high-FODMAP foods, eating too quickly, sweeteners such as sorbitol and xylitol, and carbonated drinks can promote fermentation. Smaller portions, chewing thoroughly, exercising after meals, and applying warmth to your abdomen can help calm things down. The key point: a low-FODMAP diet is intended as a trial lasting around four to six weeks, not as a permanent diet. After that, you reintroduce the groups one at a time to find your personal tolerance threshold.

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to eat low-FODMAP permanently now?
No, and in the long term, it would actually be a bad idea. The low-FODMAP diet is intended as a time-limited trial, usually for four to six weeks. After that, you reintroduce the groups one at a time. In the long run, the strict version also starves your beneficial bacteria, since many FODMAPs are fiber. This can reduce diversity. Guidance from a nutrition professional is advisable.

Does a high FODMAP value mean I have irritable bowel syndrome?
No. The value describes your gut microbiome’s tendency to ferment and is not a diagnosis. Irritable bowel syndrome is diagnosed by a doctor after other causes have been ruled out. Many people with a high value have no symptoms at all, and conversely, symptoms can occur despite a low value. What matters is how you actually feel after eating.

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Why this value appears in your results

The value is measured because it provides an indication of the connection between the oral and gut microbiomes. High levels of oral bacteria in stool may indicate substantial bacterial migration, for example in the case of gum inflammation or significantly reduced stomach acid. In addition, Fusobacterium nucleatum is an active area of research, which is why many labs test for it.

When the proportion is elevated

A higher level is more often observed in people with gum problems or substantial plaque. Research also reports that the bacterium is found more often in tissue samples from people with certain intestinal diseases. This observation is the subject of ongoing studies. A stool test result alone does not allow conclusions to be drawn about an individual case.

When the proportion is low

A low level or no detection is considered normal and is the usual finding. It suggests that mouth bacteria are largely intercepted in the digestive tract, for example by stomach acid and a stable colon flora. There is no reason to try to raise this level, since the bacterium has no known beneficial role in the gut.

What you can do

Oral hygiene is key to keeping things stable: brush your teeth twice a day, clean between your teeth, and get regular dental checkups. In the gut, fiber from oats, legumes, vegetables, and fruit supports competing flora. Gum inflammation, smoking, a very high-sugar diet, and persistently reduced stomach acid can encourage its spread.

Frequently asked questions

Is a positive test for Fusobacterium nucleatum dangerous?
A finding in stool is not, by itself, a sign of disease. In many people, the bacterium travels from the mouth to the gut. Research is examining whether substantial colonization of the intestinal lining plays a role in certain diseases. This has not been established. It makes sense to check your dental health and talk with your healthcare provider.

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Why this value appears in your results

The finding helps put fungal results into context. Because Geotrichum often comes from food, a positive result often simply reflects your diet. It is only interpreted as a sign of an altered environment if it appears repeatedly and in larger amounts while the protective bacterial flora is also low.

When the proportion is elevated

Higher levels are often found in people who eat a lot of soft and semi-hard cheeses, raw-milk products, or buttermilk. It also tends to persist temporarily more easily after antibiotics. People with normal immune function generally have no symptoms. A follow-up test after a few weeks of eating significantly less cheese often already shows a different picture.

When the proportion is low

No detection or only an occasional finding is unremarkable and more common. Geotrichum is not part of the gut’s usual residents, so its absence is not a deficiency and requires no action. Protective bacterial groups, pH, and overall diversity are more informative about your gut environment.

What you can do

The most common sources are dairy products, especially soft cheeses with white rinds, raw-milk cheese, buttermilk, and quark. If you want to lower the level, reduce these foods for a few weeks and test again. For a stable environment where fungi have little room to grow, the same basics apply: a variety of vegetables, legumes, whole grains, and little added sugar.

Frequently asked questions

Does the fungus really come from cheese?
In many cases, yes. Geotrichum candidum is used in cheesemaking and grows in large quantities on the surface of some soft cheeses. It passes through the gut and can then be detected in stool without settling there. To check whether there is a connection, avoid cheese for two to three weeks and repeat the test.

Do I need to do anything about it?
With normal immune function and no symptoms, a positive result is not a reason for treatment. It is more useful to look at the overall picture: if protective bacteria are well represented and the pH is on the low end, this finding carries little weight. Persistent symptoms or a known immune deficiency should be assessed by a doctor.

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Why this value appears in your results

Hafnia alvei is included because it belongs to the Enterobacteriaceae family and adds to the overall picture. The individual value carries little weight. It becomes interesting only when several members of this family are elevated at the same time. Then the pattern points to a shift in the intestinal environment, not to this one bacterium.

When the proportion is elevated

An elevated level is often simply related to what you ate in the past few days, such as raw milk cheese or raw fish. The germ is also found more often after travel. A single detection is usually insignificant. If the level remains clearly elevated across several tests, talking to a doctor is the sensible next step.

When the proportion is low

A negative result is the norm for Hafnia alvei. The vast majority of test results are negative, and that is exactly what is expected. A low level says nothing about the quality of your gut flora, because this bacterium is not normally a permanent resident. No action is needed.

What you can do

Raw and long-stored foods are the main sources: raw milk products, raw fish, and opened packages of cold cuts. Maintaining the cold chain and using leftovers promptly can noticeably reduce exposure. As with other Enterobacteriaceae, the same applies in the gut: a dense flora nourished with fiber leaves little room for opportunistic germs. Vegetables, legumes, and whole grains are the easiest ways to help.

Frequently asked questions

Hafnia alvei showed up in my test results. How serious is it?
For most people, this is an incidental finding with no consequences. The bacterium mainly comes from food and often simply passes through the gut. If you have no symptoms, it is enough to check the level again at a later appointment. If you have persistent digestive symptoms, discuss the findings with your primary care provider.

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Why this value appears in your results

Klebsiella bacteria are considered a good indicator of gaps in the gut microbiome. Because they multiply quickly as soon as space becomes available, their abundance indirectly shows how stable the protective flora is. Studies also find higher levels of Klebsiella more often in people with inflammatory bowel disease, but this does not allow conclusions to be drawn about an individual case.

When the proportion is elevated

An elevated level usually indicates that the normal flora currently has gaps. Common triggers include antibiotics, a very high-sugar diet, travel, or a recent gastrointestinal infection. Some people notice bloating. The level on its own is not a diagnosis, but a sign that it may be time to nourish the beneficial bacteria again.

When the proportion is low

A low value or no detection at all is considered favorable here. Klebsiella are not part of the gut’s core population; they are more like visitors. If they are absent, the protective flora has occupied the available space well. A low result requires no action or further investigation.

What you can do

Klebsiella are encouraged by sugar, white flour, soft drinks, and alcohol, as well as by anything that depletes protective flora. They can be pushed back through competition: fiber from vegetables, berries, oats, and legumes feeds bacteria that lower the pH and occupy the available space. Fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir, or kimchi complement this. Significantly reducing sugar for a few weeks often has the most noticeable effect.

Frequently asked questions

Klebsiella sounds like a hospital-acquired infection. Is it the same thing?
The name is the same, but the situation is not. In hospitals, the concern is individual strains that are resistant to antibiotics in patients with weakened immune systems. By contrast, stool tests identify the genus as a whole, and finding it in the gut is an everyday result for many people. The amount found in a microbiome test cannot be used to infer the presence of a hospital-acquired pathogen.

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Why this value appears in your results

Kluyvera appears in the results because modern methods can reliably identify even rare genera. The individual value carries little weight. Its usefulness lies in completeness: only when several enterobacteria are elevated together does a pattern emerge that suggests depleted protective flora. Kluyvera alone contributes little to this assessment.

When the proportion is elevated

An elevated value is rare and can usually be traced to raw foods, water, or travel. In people without symptoms, such a finding is considered a snapshot. It becomes truly meaningful only if it is confirmed in a follow-up test and other results are also abnormal.

When the proportion is low

No detection is by far the most common result for Kluyvera and is completely unremarkable. The genus is not part of the normal gut flora. A negative result requires no action, nor does it say anything about how stable your gut flora is overall. Diversity and protective bacteria are better indicators.

What you can do

Exposure mainly comes from unwashed raw produce, water from unfamiliar sources, and food left uncovered for a long time. Thorough washing and proper refrigeration reduce further exposure. The same simple rule applies in the gut as for all occasional microbes: when protective bacteria are well nourished and densely packed, there is hardly any room left. Eating vegetables, fruit, legumes, and whole grains throughout the day does just that.

Frequently asked questions

Kluyvera has shown up in my results. Is this a rare exceptional case?
Rarely, yes, but it’s not an exceptional case. The genus is only occasionally found in stool, usually in small amounts and without accompanying symptoms. In this case, the finding is considered incidental. Monitor the value at a later checkup. If you have persistent digestive symptoms, take the result to your primary care clinic.

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Why this value appears in your results

The value shows how resistant your flora is to disruptions, such as after antibiotic treatment, while traveling, or after a gastrointestinal infection. Studies often find low colonization resistance when unwanted microbes spread after such events. It adds a protective perspective to diversity and butyrate production.

When the level is high

A high value indicates a densely populated, well-functioning flora. The niches are occupied, the environment is slightly acidic, and foreign microbes struggle to gain a foothold. This is considered beneficial, especially before traveling or after recovering from an infection. There is no complete protection, but the starting point is stable.

When the level is low

A low value means there are gaps in the microbial community. This is often seen after antibiotic treatment, with low diversity, or after prolonged bouts of diarrhea. Unwanted microbes can then establish themselves more easily. It usually takes weeks to rebuild the community with a fiber-rich diet and fermented foods.

What affects the level

Variety and nourishment are key. Eat many different plant-based foods throughout the week, along with legumes, whole grains, and resistant starch. Fermented foods such as sauerkraut, kimchi, kefir, or plain yogurt provide live cultures. Take antibiotics only as directed by a doctor, and then consciously support the rebuilding of your gut flora. Alcohol and highly processed products weaken the microbial community.

Frequently asked questions

Why do I get a stomach bug more easily on vacation than other people?
There are many reasons for this, and gut flora is one of them. A densely populated, diverse flora makes it harder for foreign microbes to take hold. After antibiotic treatment or with a one-sided diet, more niches are left open. Even so, taking care with food and drink remains the most important factor when traveling.

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Why this value appears in your results

The level shows how strongly the lactic acid-producing fraction of your gut flora is represented. Since lactobacilli also come from food, it also reflects your eating habits. Together with gut pH and bifidobacteria, it gives an idea of how acidic and how stable your colon’s microbial community is at the moment.

When the share is high

Elevated levels are considered harmless and are often seen in people who eat a lot of fermented foods or take probiotics. Very high numbers together with bloating and a feeling of fullness shortly after eating are occasionally associated with small intestinal bacterial overgrowth. This cannot be determined from stool alone and should be evaluated by a doctor.

When the proportion is low

Low levels are often observed after antibiotics, with a very high-sugar or low-fiber diet, and during prolonged stress. If you have no symptoms, this is not a warning sign, since lactobacilli make up only a small part of the total flora. Fermented foods and greater plant-based variety on your plate are good places to start.

What feeds it

Fermented foods are the direct route: plain yogurt without sugar, kefir, buttermilk, mild sauerkraut, kimchi, refrigerated pickled vegetables, and sourdough bread. Make sure the products have not been heated, or the cultures will no longer be alive. Vegetables, fruit, and whole grains provide food for them. Too much sugar and alcohol have the opposite effect.

Frequently asked questions

Are lactobacilli helpful for lactose intolerance?
Some species produce their own lactase enzyme and break down milk sugar in the product itself. That is why many people tolerate yogurt and kefir better than fresh milk. This does not make lactose intolerance go away, but for many people it increases the amount they can consume without symptoms. Try small portions to see what works for you.

Do I need to take probiotics long-term?
Most introduced strains do not settle permanently; they move on again after a few days to a few weeks. As long as you take them, they will show up in your results. Your daily diet is what matters most for maintaining a stable native flora. Taking them in courses, for example around antibiotic treatment, is the most commonly studied approach.

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Why this value appears in your results

The value shows how large the reservoir of LPS-carrying bacteria in your gut is. Together with barrier markers such as zonulin and mucin degradation, it helps determine whether this reservoir comes into contact with the immune system at all. Studies frequently observe elevated values with diets high in fat and sugar.

When the level is high

A high value means that gram-negative groups are strongly represented. This is often observed with a high-fat, low-fiber diet, heavy alcohol consumption, and after antibiotic treatment. Whether this puts a strain on the immune system depends primarily on how well your intestinal barrier functions. The value alone is not a warning sign.

When the level is low

A low value means that LPS-carrying bacteria play only a small role in your sample. This is considered unremarkable. No gut can do without these groups entirely, as they also perform important functions and keep the immune system active. So a low value is not a target, but simply a reassuring finding.

What affects the level

Fiber and polyphenols keep gram-negative groups in check: vegetables, legumes, whole grains, berries, olive oil, green tea, and herbs. Foods rich in omega-3, such as flaxseed oil, walnuts, and fatty saltwater fish, are associated with a calmer immune state. Conversely, excessive alcohol, very high-fat meals, and highly processed products can have the opposite effect.

Frequently asked questions

Does a high LPS level mean that I have low-grade inflammation?
Not necessarily. The value only describes how many LPS-carrying bacteria are in your sample. What matters is whether these substances actually cross the intestinal barrier. The connection between gut flora, the barrier, and low-grade inflammation is being studied, but it cannot be determined from a stool value alone. Blood tests and a doctor's assessment are also needed.

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Why this value appears in your results

The value shows whether another lactate utilizer besides Anaerostipes is present in your gut. This group consumes lactic acid from fermentation and turns it into short-chain fatty acids. In your results, Megasphaera therefore adds to the picture of your butyrate supply and the acid balance in your colon.

When the share is high

Higher levels are considered unremarkable and often occur with a high-fiber diet rich in fermented foods. They suggest that lactic acid is being processed quickly. There is no target level, as this genus varies greatly from person to person. Its interaction with the other butyrate producers is more meaningful.

When the proportion is low

Low or undetectable levels are common and are not a problem on their own. Megasphaera cannot be detected in many people; other lactate utilizers then take over its role. Only if Anaerostipes and other butyrate producers are also low is it worth reviewing your fiber intake and any past antibiotic use.

What feeds it

Megasphaera benefits from a combination of fiber and lactic acid bacteria. Oats, barley, legumes, and root vegetables provide fiber. Yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi provide the lactic acid that these bacteria use to produce butyrate. Whether the genus establishes itself depends largely on your existing gut flora, and you can’t force it.

Frequently asked questions

Megasphaera wasn’t found in my test. Am I missing something?
No. This genus is not detectable in many people, and that is considered a normal variation. Other bacteria, such as Anaerostipes, then take over its role of converting lactic acid into short-chain fatty acids. So it’s better to look at the overall picture of your butyrate producers rather than focusing on a single genus.

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Why this value appears in your results

The level helps put bloating, a feeling of fullness, and sluggish bowel movements into context. Where a lot of methane is produced, intestinal contents often move more slowly. At the same time, its presence shows that hydrogen utilization in your large intestine is working. That is why it is included in test results as relevant to both digestion and metabolism.

When the share is high

Higher levels are often observed in people with slow intestinal transit and hard stools, as well as pronounced abdominal bloating. In breath tests, this shows up as an elevated methane level. A connection with body weight is being discussed, but the research is inconclusive. A high level alone is not a diagnosis, but one piece of the puzzle alongside your symptoms.

When the proportion is low

Low or absent levels are completely normal. In many people, this methane producer is barely detectable or not detectable at all because other groups, such as sulfate-reducing bacteria, consume the hydrogen. If your digestion is working well, a low level has no significance. Some people with very low levels are more prone to loose stools.

What feeds it

This microorganism is usually about balance. For sluggish bowel movements, exercise, drinking enough fluids, and soluble fiber from psyllium husks, oats, and cooked vegetables can help. If you experience a lot of bloating, you can temporarily cut back on highly fermentable foods, such as large portions of legumes and cabbage, and spread your portions throughout the day.

Frequently asked questions

Is Methanobrevibacter even a bacterium?
No. Methanobrevibacter smithii is an archaeon, so it belongs to its own domain of life, separate from bacteria. Its cell envelope structure and metabolism differ significantly. Because it is measured in stool alongside bacteria, it usually appears in the same list in test results.

Is a high methane level linked to sluggish bowel movements?
Studies more often observe high methane production in people with slow intestinal transit and hard stools. Methane’s role in slowing intestinal muscle movement has been well studied. Even so, this value does not prove the cause of your symptoms. Physical activity, fluid intake, and soluble fiber are the first sensible steps to consider.

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Why this value appears in your results

This value is of particular interest to people with histamine intolerance. Since Morganella morganii can produce histamine in the gut itself, higher levels are discussed as a possible contributor to the overall burden. The extent of this contribution in any individual case is still an open scientific question. The value also indicates how much protein breakdown is currently taking place in the colon.

When the proportion is elevated

An elevated value is often observed with a high-protein, low-fiber diet. During such periods, people with histamine intolerance sometimes report more symptoms, such as skin flushing, pressure in the head, or bloating. This does not establish a definite connection in any individual case. However, the value is a useful prompt to track diet and symptoms in parallel for a few weeks.

When the proportion is low

A low value or no detection is unremarkable and considered favorable, especially in cases of known histamine intolerance. Morganella morganii is not part of the core microbiota, so its absence is not a deficiency. If symptoms persist, the cause is usually elsewhere, for example in histamine-rich foods or the activity of the enzyme that breaks it down in the small intestine.

What you can do

Morganella morganii gets its food from large portions of meat, sausage, and fish, especially when they are not accompanied by much plant-based food. Long storage and interrupted refrigeration also increase the histamine in the food itself. Smaller portions of protein, freshly purchased fish, using leftovers promptly, and more fiber from vegetables, oats, and flaxseed shift the environment in the other direction.

Frequently asked questions

I don’t tolerate histamine well. Does this value explain my symptoms?
It can be one piece of the puzzle, but no more than that. Histamine intolerance is influenced by many factors: the amount in food, the activity of the enzyme that breaks it down, hormones, stress, and medications. An elevated Morganella morganii value provides an additional lead, but does not replace an assessment. A food and symptom diary usually offers the clearest clues here.

Do I need to eat a low-histamine diet now?
Not necessarily. A strict low-histamine diet is restrictive and should only be tried for a limited time with professional guidance. A more sensible first step is to reduce highly matured foods, leftovers stored for a long time, and large portions of protein for a few weeks, and see whether anything changes. Then you can decide at your own pace.

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Why this value appears in your results

The mucus layer is the first line of defense for your intestinal wall. The value shows whether breakdown and renewal are in balance. Studies have linked substantial breakdown combined with little dietary fiber to a more permeable barrier. This means the value adds a functional perspective to the species list alone.

When the level is high

A high value means that many mucus-degrading bacteria were detected. This is often observed with a low-fiber diet: when plant-based food is lacking, some bacteria turn to the mucus layer. The protective layer can then become thinner. A high value alone does not prove damage, but should be considered together with your fiber intake.

When the level is low

A low value means that mucus breakdown is limited. This is usually considered normal. However, very low values may also mean that mucus-using species such as Akkermansia muciniphila are scarcely present. These species help stimulate mucus production. Moderate turnover is therefore considered more favorable than none at all.

What affects the level

Fiber steers bacteria’s appetite away from the mucus layer. Vegetables, legumes, whole grains, flaxseed, berries, and resistant starch from cooled potatoes provide alternatives. Polyphenol-rich foods such as berries, green tea, and olive oil are associated with a stable mucus layer. Plenty of alcohol and highly processed foods have the opposite effect.

Frequently asked questions

So is Akkermansia good or bad for my mucus layer?
Both are part of the question. Akkermansia muciniphila feeds on mucins and also stimulates their production. At typical levels, it is considered beneficial for the barrier. Only when fiber is consistently lacking and breakdown exceeds replenishment does the layer become thinner. So what matters is the balance, not the species alone.

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Why this value appears in your results

This value adds a species from a different group of related organisms to the picture of butyrate producers. It also provides an indication of sulfur metabolism in your gut. Studies frequently detect this species in people with stable, diverse gut flora, and find it less often when inflammation is present.

When the share is high

High values are considered normal to favorable and usually occur with a varied, plant-forward diet. Since this species makes up only a small part of the gut flora even at high levels, no symptoms should be inferred from them. No threshold at which a high value is considered unfavorable has been established so far.

When the proportion is low

Low or undetectable levels are common and are unremarkable on their own, since this species is present in only small amounts in many people anyway. Studies more often find low levels in people with inflammatory bowel disease and low bacterial diversity. To interpret the result, it is worth looking at the other butyrate producers.

What feeds it

A varied diet is helpful here: legumes, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and plenty of vegetables. Sulfur-containing vegetables such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, kohlrabi, and onions provide compounds that this species can use. Try to eat regular meals and drink enough fluids. A diet very high in fat and meat over a long period tends to have the opposite effect.

Frequently asked questions

My Odoribacter is not detectable. Is that bad?
Usually not. This species is present in only very small amounts in many people, often below the detection limit of the method. The overall picture is more informative: if the other butyrate producers are well represented and diversity is good, not detecting this individual species is of little significance.

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Why this value appears in your results

Oscillibacter is considered an indicator of a well-nourished, diverse gut flora. Because this genus thrives only when enough fiber is available, it reflects your diet over time. In test results, it adds to the picture of groups associated with metabolism, without indicating a specific target level.

When the share is high

Higher levels are usually seen with fiber-rich, plant-focused diets and are considered unremarkable. Studies often find them alongside high bacterial diversity. A high level alone says nothing about your weight or metabolism. It simply fits into an overall favorable picture of your gut flora.

When the proportion is low

Low levels are often seen with low-fiber, highly processed diets and after antibiotics. Oscillibacter is also often low when bacterial diversity is low. On its own, this says nothing about your health. It is more of an indication that little usable fiber is reaching the large intestine.

What feeds it

Oscillibacter needs a wide variety of plant fibers. Legumes, whole grains, nuts, seeds, berries, cruciferous vegetables, and root vegetables provide the variety this genus prefers. Studies have also linked olive oil and a Mediterranean-style diet to higher levels. Regular exercise fits well into the same picture.

Frequently asked questions

Does Oscillibacter make you slim?
It’s not that simple. Studies more often find this genus in people with lower body weight. It’s unclear whether the bacteria contribute to this or simply benefit from a high-fiber diet. This result can help you gauge your fiber intake, but it doesn’t explain your weight.

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Why this value appears in your results

Parabacteroides adds to the picture of how you process fiber and metabolize bile acids. Because the genus uses both plant fibers and mucus, it responds fairly clearly to changes in your diet. In your results, it’s useful to consider it alongside Bacteroides and your bacterial diversity.

When the share is high

Higher levels are generally considered unremarkable and are observed with a high-fiber diet. Very high proportions occasionally occur when overall diversity is low and a few genera dominate. That’s why it’s worth checking the bigger picture: if other beneficial groups are also well represented, a high level is nothing to worry about.

When the proportion is low

Low levels are observed after antibiotics, with a low-fiber diet, and when dietary variety is limited. The breakdown of complex fibers is then shared by fewer groups of bacteria. A single low result is no cause for concern; it’s a sign to increase the range of plant fibers on your plate.

What feeds it

Parabacteroides prefers complex, minimally processed fibers. Legumes, whole grains, mushrooms, seaweed, cruciferous vegetables, onions, and leeks provide suitable food, as do flaxseed and psyllium husks. Aim for variety rather than relying on a single fiber source, and rotate the types from week to week. Drinking enough water and eating at a relaxed pace can also support your digestion.

Frequently asked questions

Is Parabacteroides the same as Bacteroides?
No. The two genera are related and were previously grouped together, but are now considered separate. They live in the large intestine and break down plant fibers, but differ in details of their metabolism and how they interact with bile acids. They are therefore listed separately in your results.

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Why this value appears in your results

The overall value shows whether fungi play a minor role in your sample or are present at an unusually high level. On its own, it is not very informative. Only when considered together with the bacterial findings, pH value, and your symptoms can it help determine whether your gut environment has shifted.

When the level is high

A high fungal load is often observed after antibiotic treatment, with a very high-sugar diet, or when the immune system is weakened. Symptoms such as bloating, a feeling of fullness, or cravings for sweets are also reported more often, but are nonspecific. A high value alone is not a diagnosis and should always be considered alongside the rest of the results.

When the level is low

A low value or no detection is considered normal. It means that fungi do not play a significant role in your sample. However, since fungi are unevenly distributed in stool, a single sample may miss them. If symptoms persist, a low value does not completely rule out fungal involvement.

What affects the level

Fungi thrive on simple sugars: sweets, soft drinks, white flour, and alcohol encourage their growth. A strong bacterial flora keeps them in check by occupying space and using up nutrients. Vegetables, legumes, whole grains, and fermented foods strengthen this competition. Take antibiotics only as directed by a doctor. A markedly abnormal result should be assessed by a doctor.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to start an anti-fungal diet right away?
Not on your own. Strict sugar-free diets lasting for months are rarely necessary and make your diet unnecessarily restrictive. It’s more sensible to cut back on obvious sources of sugar while supporting your gut bacteria with vegetables, legumes, and whole grains. If the results are clearly abnormal and you have symptoms, it’s best to discuss them with a doctor.

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Why this value appears in your results

Prevotella reveals a lot about your dietary pattern. A notable proportion points to a diet rich in fiber and grains, while a very low proportion suggests one rich in fat and protein. In your results, this value helps classify your gut type and correctly interpret the results for the other groups.

When the share is high

High levels are typically observed with a plant-focused diet rich in whole grains, vegetables, and legumes. This often goes hand in hand with good fiber processing. At the same time, some people with very high proportions report increased gas production. Scientific conclusions remain mixed because individual species are assessed differently across studies.

When the proportion is low

Low or undetectable levels are common in Western countries and are not a deficiency in themselves. They usually indicate that other fiber processors, such as Bacteroides, are taking on this role. If the fiber content of your diet increases over time, Prevotella may increase. But this is not certain for everyone, since your starting flora plays a part.

What feeds it

Prevotella thrives on cereal fibers. Whole-grain bread, oats, barley, rye, and millet, as well as legumes, root vegetables, and fruit, provide the xylans and pectins it uses. A predominantly plant-based diet over several weeks has a stronger effect than individual foods. Whether Prevotella establishes itself long term also depends on your existing flora.

Frequently asked questions

No Prevotella was found in my results at all. Is that bad?
No. In many people in Central Europe, Prevotella is barely detectable because our diet contains fewer cereal fibers than in other parts of the world. Other genera then process your fiber. More important than any single genus is ensuring that your plate contains a wide variety of fiber overall.

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Why this value appears in your results

The proportion of this group is often used as an indicator of the balance of the gut flora. Studies often describe a marked increase alongside an altered composition. The value puts individual findings for Escherichia coli, Klebsiella, and related germs into a broader context.

When the proportion is elevated

A high proportion of the overall flora is often observed in studies when the gut flora is out of balance, for example after antibiotics, gastrointestinal infections, or prolonged stress. Because these bacteria carry LPS in their cell walls, an elevated proportion has been linked to increased irritation of the immune system. This does not establish a diagnosis.

When the proportion is low

A low proportion is the norm and is considered unremarkable. This group is part of the normal gut flora in small amounts and also performs functions there, such as consuming oxygen in the gut. A very low or undetectable level is no cause for concern and does not need to be specifically increased.

What you can do

This group tends to thrive when meals contain little fiber and lots of sugar, alcohol, or highly processed foods. It can be reduced indirectly: fiber from vegetables, legumes, and whole grains supports butyrate producers, and their butyrate keeps the intestinal environment low in oxygen. Regular meals, less alcohol, and cautious use of antibiotics can help.

Frequently asked questions

My Proteobacteria level is elevated. What does that mean?
First, this group takes up more space than the others. This is often seen after antibiotics, after an infection, or with a low-fiber diet, and in many cases it returns to normal on its own. Also check which individual species stand out in the results. If symptoms persist, discuss the results with a doctor.

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Why this value appears in your results

The Proteus level supplements the pH value in the results. Because this bacterium releases ammonia during protein breakdown, a high level often corresponds to a more alkaline gut environment. Read together, the two values show whether putrefactive processes are currently predominant in the colon or whether the fiber-fermenting side has the upper hand.

When the proportion is elevated

An elevated level is often observed with diets heavily focused on meat and sausage, as well as with low fiber intake or after antibiotics. People typically report bloating with a pungent odor. As an isolated finding, the level is simply an indication of the gut environment. It warrants adjusting your diet, not worrying.

When the proportion is low

A low level or no detection is the desired result. Proteus is not part of the core flora, but rather a fringe inhabitant. If the genus is barely present, this points to a more acidic environment and a well-populated mucous membrane. There is nothing to do here other than carry on as before.

What you can do

Proteus thrives on large portions of meat, sausage, aged cheese and a diet low in plant foods. Sluggish digestion also promotes protein breakdown in the colon. You can curb this by eating more soluble fiber from oats, apples, carrots and psyllium husks, having moderate portions of protein and drinking enough water. Moving around after meals supports transit, so less undigested protein reaches the lower gut.

Frequently asked questions

Why does my stool smell so pungent when Proteus is elevated?
Protein breakdown produces ammonia, sulfur compounds and amines. These are exactly the substances that the nose perceives as pungent. An association with an elevated Proteus level is often observed, but it is never the only reason. Diet, the pace of digestion and other microbes also play a role.

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Why this value appears in your results

Providencia rounds out the Enterobacteriaceae overview in the results. On its own, the level tells us little because detections are so rare. It becomes meaningful only as part of a pattern with Proteus, Klebsiella, and Morganella: if several of these protein-metabolizing genera rise together, this points to a putrefactive environment in the large intestine.

When the proportion is elevated

An elevated level is unusual and is often associated with a high-protein diet, travel, or the period after antibiotic use. Symptoms are not necessarily present. It is worth taking an objective look at the other results: if the pH and other protein metabolizers are also abnormal, adjusting your diet may help. Persistent symptoms should be discussed with a doctor.

When the proportion is low

No detection is the norm for Providencia. The vast majority of results are negative because this genus does not play a permanent role in the human large intestine. A low result requires no action and, conversely, tells you nothing about how diverse the rest of your gut flora is.

What you can do

Providencia can thrive with a high-protein diet that is also low in fiber, and with sluggish digestion that leaves food residues in the large intestine for a long time. You can counter this with moderate portions of meat, more legumes, vegetables with every meal, and plenty of water. Soluble fiber from oats or psyllium husks lowers the pH and makes the environment less appealing to protein metabolizers.

Frequently asked questions

I have Providencia in my results and can hardly find any information about it. Why?
Because the genus is rarely found in the gut of healthy people and has therefore been studied little. It is included in the results for completeness, so the Enterobacteriaceae group is fully represented. Based on current knowledge, a single finding in a small amount has no consequences. Only repeatedly high levels accompanied by symptoms warrant a discussion with a doctor.

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Why this value appears in your results

Since Pseudomonas is normally hardly present in the gut, its level is primarily an indication of environmental exposure. A positive result is often associated with travel, tap water from unfamiliar sources, or raw foods. The genus is also considered an indicator of a more oxygen-rich gut, which may point to a thin protective layer.

When the proportion is elevated

An elevated level usually means that many microbes are currently coming in from outside or that the protective flora has gaps after antibiotics. In healthy people, the finding often disappears on its own within a few weeks. If the level remains high across several checkups or symptoms develop, it is advisable to talk to a doctor.

When the proportion is low

No detection or hardly any detection is the norm and exactly what you would expect. Pseudomonas is not part of the usual population of the large intestine. A low level also says nothing about the quality of your gut flora, since this genus is a rare visitor anyway.

What you can do

Pseudomonas gets replenished through water: water left standing in bottles, water filters that aren't cleaned, ice cubes from an unknown source, and unwashed raw vegetables. Reducing these sources is the simplest step: replace water filters regularly, rinse drinking bottles daily, and wash salad thoroughly. In the gut itself, a dense, fiber-fed flora helps because it keeps the environment low in oxygen and leaves little room for this genus.

Frequently asked questions

I have Pseudomonas in my test results, but I feel fine. Is that a problem?
In people without symptoms, a single finding is usually not significant. The genus comes from the environment and often simply passes through. Keep an eye on the result at a later checkup, and pay attention to water hygiene in your daily routine. If symptoms develop or you have a weakened immune system, discuss the finding with a doctor.

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Why this value appears in your results

This finding adds to the picture of fungi and shows which yeasts are present at all. Since Rhodotorula usually comes from the environment, a single positive result is rarely significant. It becomes interesting only when it occurs repeatedly and in larger quantities, while the protective bacterial flora is also weak.

When the proportion is elevated

Higher levels are occasionally seen after antibiotics or with a very high-sugar diet, when yeasts generally have more room to grow. More frequent contact with damp environments also plays a role. In people with normal immune defenses, this is usually not associated with any symptoms. If symptoms persist nonetheless, a doctor should assess them.

When the proportion is low

No detection is the usual, unremarkable result. Rhodotorula has no known beneficial role in the gut, so its absence is not a deficiency and requires no action. Protective groups, fiber-degrading bacteria, and overall diversity are much more important when assessing your gut than this finding.

What you can do

Yeast growth in general is encouraged by high intake of free sugars and alcohol, as well as by a gut bacterial flora depleted after antibiotics. Exposure from external sources can be reduced by keeping wet areas clean and dry, changing sponges and towels regularly, and washing fruit and vegetables thoroughly. A varied intake of vegetables, legumes, whole grains, and fermented foods remains the basis for a stable gut environment.

Frequently asked questions

Where does this yeast come from?
Rhodotorula prefers damp places: showers, sinks, potting soil, water, and food. The pink residue in shower grout often comes from this yeast or related microbes. It can enter the digestive tract via hands or food. A positive stool test therefore usually indicates exposure from an external source.

Does this result require treatment?
If your immune system is functioning normally and you have no symptoms, a positive result is not considered to require treatment. The usual approach is to look at the overall picture and, if there is any uncertainty, repeat the test after a few weeks. If you have a known immune deficiency, are undergoing chemotherapy, or have an indwelling catheter, any fungal finding should be assessed by a doctor.

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Why this value appears in your results

The level indicates how well your gut is equipped to produce butyrate. Together with Faecalibacterium prausnitzii and Eubacterium rectale, Roseburia forms the core group responsible for this. Because it responds strongly to dietary fiber, the level is a good indicator of whether enough fermentable material is reaching the large intestine.

When the share is high

High levels are considered favorable and often occur with a fiber-rich diet containing plenty of whole grains and legumes. They suggest that sufficient amounts of starch and plant fiber are reaching the large intestine. An excess of this genus has not been described. A high level alone does not indicate that you have any symptoms.

When the proportion is low

Low levels are often seen with a low-fiber diet, after antibiotics, and with a highly processed diet. Studies also find them in chronic inflammatory bowel diseases and metabolic abnormalities. Since this genus produces butyrate, low levels may mean a more limited energy supply for your mucosal cells. This is not a diagnosis.

What feeds it

Roseburia prefers starch and cereal fibers. Oats, barley, whole-grain rye, legumes, and cooked and cooled potatoes or rice provide just that. Flaxseed and psyllium husks are also well utilized. Eat a wide variety of plants throughout the week and increase your fiber intake gradually. Alcohol, lots of sugar, and long periods without plant-based foods have the opposite effect.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between Roseburia and Faecalibacterium?
Both produce butyrate, but work with different raw materials. Roseburia prefers starch and cereal fibers such as xylan, while Faecalibacterium is better suited to resistant starch and pectin. The two genera therefore complement each other well. A varied plant-based diet with grains, legumes, and fruit supports both at the same time.

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Why this value appears in your results

The level shows how well your gut breaks down resistant starch. If this specialist is missing, some of the starch goes unused, and other bacteria get less to feed on. In a test result, Ruminococcus is therefore an indicator of whether the first stage of your fiber digestion is working reliably.

When the share is high

High levels are usually seen with a diet rich in starch and fiber, such as one with plenty of whole grains, legumes, and cooled potatoes. This is generally considered beneficial. Some people notice temporarily more gas when levels rise very quickly, because fermentation in the colon increases and the gut flora needs time to adjust.

When the proportion is low

Low values are often observed with a low-fiber diet, after antibiotics, or with a diet high in processed foods. Resistant starch then remains partly undigested, leaving butyrate producers short of food. A low value is not a finding in itself, but a reason to take a closer look at the sources of starch on your plate.

What feeds it

Resistant starch is the main food source. You can find it in cooled potatoes, pasta, and rice; legumes; green bananas; oats; and whole-grain bread made with a long fermentation. Some of it remains when reheated. Start with small portions and gradually increase them over a few weeks, so your gut flora has time to adjust.

Frequently asked questions

Why are cooled potatoes better than freshly cooked ones?
When cooked potatoes, rice, or pasta cool, some of the starch changes structure and becomes resistant to your own enzymes. This resistant starch travels to the large intestine, where it serves as food for bacteria such as Ruminococcus. So yesterday’s potato salad contains more of it than a freshly cooked side dish.

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Why this value appears in your results

Reporting it separately prevents confusion. Without this, this beneficial yeast would show up in the general fungal findings and cause unnecessary concern. The value also shows whether a supplement you are taking is actually reaching the gut. Together with the other results, it helps determine which part of a fungal finding is intentional.

When the proportion is elevated

A high value suggests that you are taking a corresponding supplement and that it is reaching the gut well. This is considered desirable, not abnormal. After stopping, the finding falls in many people within a few days. If your immune system is severely weakened or you have a catheter in place, discuss taking it with your doctor.

When the proportion is low

No finding is unremarkable if you are not taking a supplement, because this yeast is not part of the natural gut flora. If you are taking one and still nothing is found, it’s worth checking the dose, storage, and expiry date; heat can damage live cultures. A deficiency does not result from a lack of this yeast.

What you can do

It is taken in the form of products from a pharmacy or store, usually as a powder or capsule; it is practically never found in foods. Because it does not establish itself permanently, it is no longer detected shortly after the last dose. Cool, dry storage preserves the number of live microorganisms. For your own flora, a variety of vegetables, legumes, and whole grains remain essential.

Frequently asked questions

Isn't this also a fungus I should get rid of?
It is a fungus, but one used deliberately. Saccharomyces boulardii has been used as a probiotic for decades and has been studied particularly in connection with taking antibiotics. A finding in the stool while taking it is expected and intended. It is not assessed in the same way as a finding of Candida species.

Can I take it together with antibiotics?
As a yeast, it does not respond to antibacterial agents, which is why it is often studied alongside antibiotics. It is best to check with a doctor or pharmacist whether and when taking it is right for you, especially if you have a weakened immune system or an indwelling catheter in hospital.

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Why this value appears in your results

This value rounds out the picture of fungi and shows whether filamentous fungi are present in the stool in addition to yeasts. Because they mostly come from food and the environment, a single finding is not very meaningful. Repeatedly high results may be a reason to look at food storage, living conditions, and tolerance of certain foods.

When the proportion is elevated

More frequent findings are observed in people who eat a lot of nuts, dried fruit, blue cheese, or fruit that has been stored for a long time, as well as in damp homes with visible mold. In people with normal immune defenses, this generally does not cause symptoms. In people with severely weakened immune systems, however, doctors monitor filamentous fungi closely, so this should be managed by a medical professional.

When the proportion is low

Absence is the norm and an unremarkable result. Molds are not part of the normal gut flora, so their absence does not mean there is a gap. At this point, protective bacterial groups, diversity, and pH are much more important for assessing your gut health than a negative fungal finding.

What you can do

Everyday sources of spores include moldy or long-stored fruit, nuts and dried fruit, mold-ripened cheese, damp bread, potting soil, and damp rooms. Fresh products, cool and dry storage, sealed food containers, and regular airing reduce exposure. A varied diet rich in vegetables, legumes, and whole grains, with little added sugar, remains the foundation for a resilient gut environment.

Frequently asked questions

Do I have mold in my gut?
A positive stool test does not prove colonization. Mold spores are ubiquitous in the air and in food, and pass through the digestive tract without growing there. In people with a normal immune system, this is considered a transient finding. Repeatedly high values are more reason to check how food is stored and the humidity in your home than to treat a fungal infection.

Should I avoid nuts and dried fruit?
You don't need to eliminate them completely, as they provide valuable fiber and fats. Instead, pay attention to quality and storage: buy fresh products in small quantities, store them in a cool, dry, dark place, and discard nuts that taste bitter or musty. Fruit that is visibly spoiled should be thrown away entirely, not just the affected part.

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Why this value appears in your results

Serratia appears in the report as one of several Enterobacteriaceae values. On its own, the value carries little weight because a positive result usually comes from outside the body. It is useful as part of the overall pattern: if several members of this family are elevated, that suggests gaps in the protective flora that opportunistic germs can move into.

When the proportion is elevated

A positive result or elevated value can often be traced to water and the environment, for example after traveling or when a water filter has not been cleaned for a while. In people without symptoms, an isolated finding is usually insignificant. If the value remains elevated at a follow-up test or symptoms develop, it should be assessed by a doctor.

When the proportion is low

No detection is the norm for Serratia and requires no further attention. The genus is not part of the gut flora but comes from the environment. Accordingly, a negative result says nothing about how well or poorly the rest of your gut microbiome is balanced. Other values in the report are relevant for that.

What you can do

Detection is encouraged by damp sources in everyday life: old water filters, drinking bottles that are rarely cleaned, showerheads with buildup, and unwashed raw produce. Regularly cleaning these sources is the most effective way to reduce exposure. In the gut, as with all opportunistic microbes, competition matters: a fiber-rich diet with vegetables, legumes, and whole grains keeps the protective flora strong and leaves little room.

Frequently asked questions

Serratia sounds alarming. Is a single detection dangerous?
For healthy people, an isolated detection in stool is generally meaningless. The genus comes from the environment and usually leaves the gut on its own. It is mainly relevant for people with severely weakened immune systems or in clinical settings. If symptoms persist, talk to your doctor.

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Why this value appears in your results

The level serves as an indicator of the gut environment. Streptococci multiply preferentially where plenty of readily available sugar arrives and transit is sluggish. An abnormal finding is therefore less a statement about a single bacterium than a clue to how your gut is currently functioning and what regularly ends up on your plate.

When the proportion is elevated

Elevated levels are often observed with diets high in sugar and white flour, as well as in people who experience bloating and fullness shortly after eating. Slow transit and reduced stomach acid are also discussed in this context. The finding alone is not a diagnosis; it invites you to look at diet and symptom patterns together.

When the proportion is low

Low or undetectable levels are unremarkable and require no action. Streptococci are not among the bacteria you want to deliberately encourage. If they are completely absent, that tells you little about the quality of your gut flora. The protective groups, butyrate producers, and overall diversity are more informative.

What you can do

Their growth is encouraged by frequent servings of sugar, soft drinks, white flour, alcohol, and constant snacking. You can help reduce them by leaving four to five hours between meals, eating less free sugar, and including more vegetables, legumes, and whole grains, as well as foods rich in bitter compounds such as arugula, chicory, and artichoke. Chewing thoroughly and eating slowly also support transit.

Frequently asked questions

Do I have a streptococcal infection if the value is elevated?
No. The stool test shows bacteria that are part of the normal gut flora, not a throat infection. The species known to cause symptoms in the throat are detected with a swab. An elevated gut value is interpreted as a sign of an altered gut environment. If you have a fever, pain, or persistent symptoms, a medical professional should assess them.

Do I need to take antibiotics now?
Elevated streptococci in a stool sample are not, by themselves, a reason for antibiotic treatment, and that decision can only be made by a medical professional anyway. In practice, the first step is to address the gut environment: less free sugar, regular meals, and a greater variety of plant foods. A follow-up test after about three months can show whether the value has changed.

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Why this value appears in your results

The value is included in the report because Sutterella can tell us something about the mucosa-associated flora. This layer is the point of contact between intestinal contents and the immune system. Studies sometimes observe a markedly elevated proportion in people with irritable bowel symptoms or chronic inflammatory bowel disease, but it is not suitable as a diagnostic criterion for these conditions.

When the proportion is elevated

An elevated proportion is considered a sign of a shift in the mucosa-associated flora. Some studies find it more often in people with persistent digestive symptoms, while other studies show no difference. A high value alone therefore tells us little. Always interpret it alongside the other values in your report.

When the proportion is low

A low proportion or no detectable amount is considered unremarkable. Sutterella has no known function that the body would otherwise lack. Mucosal protection depends more on a stable mucus layer and enough butyrate producers. A low value therefore requires no targeted measures.

What you can do

A varied diet helps keep the mucosa-associated flora stable: different vegetables, legumes, whole grains, berries, and nuts throughout the week. Foods rich in polyphenols, such as olive oil, green tea, and dark berries, support the mucus layer. A shift is encouraged by low-fiber processed foods, frequent alcohol consumption, and repeated antibiotic use without a subsequent rebuilding phase.

Frequently asked questions

Is Sutterella a bad bacterium?
It’s not that simple. Sutterella is found in many people without symptoms and is considered a normal resident there. Only when it increases significantly is it classified as a problematic microbe, because it lives so close to the mucous membrane. Research is mixed on this point. The overall picture of your results is more informative than the individual value.

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Why this value appears in your results

The value shows how much lactic acid is produced and processed further in the gut. A high proportion may indicate abundant lactate production, for example due to a diet high in sugar or after intense training. The value also helps assess the interplay between lactic acid bacteria and the downstream consumers in the colon.

When the proportion is elevated

Elevated levels are observed more often in studies among endurance athletes after intense exertion. Veillonella is considered a beneficiary of the resulting lactate. Regardless of sports activity, a high proportion may also indicate a diet high in sugar and refined carbohydrates. It describes a pattern, not a diagnosis.

When the proportion is low

A low proportion is considered unremarkable. Lactate is also used in the gut by other bacteria, such as Anaerostipes, which produce butyrate from it. So a low Veillonella finding does not indicate a gap in metabolism and does not require any specific action. The overall picture of bacterial diversity and adequate fiber-degrading bacteria is more important.

What you can do

The balance is best maintained when lactic acid is quickly processed further. Fiber from oats, barley, and legumes, as well as cooled potatoes or rice, helps by feeding butyrate producers. Less sugar and fewer soft drinks reduce the lactate load. During intensive training, adequate recovery time and a vegetable-rich, carbohydrate-conscious diet can help.

Frequently asked questions

I do a lot of sports. Is a high value a good sign?
Veillonella is found more often in endurance athletes because it uses the lactate produced during exercise. Whether this improves performance is currently being studied, and no definitive conclusions have been reached. A high value is therefore neither a badge of honor nor a warning sign. The bacterial diversity and butyrate production potential shown in your results are more informative for your day-to-day health.

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Why this value appears in your results

Individual bacterial values tell you little unless you know how to interpret them. The ratio brings together many individual findings in a single overview. It shows whether your gut flora as a whole is working more toward fermentation and maintaining the intestinal lining, or whether putrefaction and fermentation processes are gaining ground. This gives you a simple starting point for the other values in your results.

When the level is high

A high value means that the protective groups clearly predominate. This is considered a favorable sign: fiber is being used effectively, the intestinal lining is supplied with energy, and unwanted microbes have less room and food. A high value does not guarantee freedom from symptoms, but it does point to a resilient baseline in your gut.

When the level is low

A low value shows that harmful germs take up a lot of space in proportion. This is often associated with a low-fiber diet, lots of meat and sugar, antibiotic treatment, or ongoing stress. Symptoms such as bloating or irregular bowel movements are reported more often in these cases. The value is an indication of your gut environment, not a judgment about your health.

What affects the level

Plant diversity has the greatest effect on the ratio: vegetables, legumes, oats, flaxseed, nuts, and fruit provide food for the protective side. Fermented foods such as sauerkraut, kefir, or plain yogurt provide live cultures. Less alcohol, fewer highly processed products, regular exercise, and enough sleep work in the same direction. Changes usually take a few weeks.

Frequently asked questions

Does an unfavorable ratio mean that I’m sick?
No. This metric describes a snapshot of your stool sample, not a diagnosis. Even people without symptoms sometimes have an unfavorable ratio, and conversely, symptoms can occur despite good values. It makes sense to consider the number alongside your symptoms and the other values in your report. If symptoms persist, medical evaluation is the right course.

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Why this value appears in your results

Because this group in the gut consists almost entirely of Akkermansia, its share is an indicator of the mucus-layer-dwelling fraction of your gut flora. Studies often describe it in connection with an intact gut barrier. This value therefore complements the other barrier metrics in your report.

When the share is high

A high share of the total flora is considered favorable for most people and is often observed with a high-fiber diet or after longer periods without food. However, very high levels are a matter of debate because these bacteria break down mucus, and a thin mucus layer with insufficient fiber intake could theoretically be harmful. The evidence is mixed.

When the proportion is low

A low proportion is frequently observed in studies in connection with a low-fiber diet, obesity, and metabolic abnormalities. Levels often fall after antibiotics, too. Since this group is closely associated with the mucus layer, a low level is interpreted as an indication of a less well-nourished intestinal barrier. A single test result is not proof of this.

What feeds it

Polyphenol-rich foods play a major role here: blueberries, cranberries, pomegranate, dark grapes, green tea, and chocolate with a high cocoa content. There are also fibers from oats, flaxseed, chicory, and onions. Longer breaks between meals and regular exercise are also associated with higher levels. Sugar and highly processed foods have the opposite effect.

Frequently asked questions

Why does Verrucomicrobia consist almost entirely of Akkermansia?
This genus is widespread in soil and water, but essentially only one species has become established in the human gut. Akkermansia muciniphila specializes in the mucus layer and occupies a niche there that other relatives cannot. That is why the genus-level and individual values in your results are usually very close.

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Why this value appears in your results

The intestinal barrier separates the contents of the gut from the body. Zonulin is one of the few markers that can indirectly provide insight into its condition. Elevated levels are frequently observed in studies of celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and after alcohol exposure. The result describes a state but does not identify a cause or provide a diagnosis.

When the level is high

A high level is interpreted as an indication of a more permeable barrier. This is often observed with a low-fiber diet, high alcohol consumption, intense endurance exercise, acute infections, and ongoing stress. Symptoms may not be present. A single elevated level does not justify self-diagnosis; instead, consider repeating the test after a few weeks.

When the level is low

A low or unremarkable level suggests that the connections between intestinal cells are currently functioning stably. The body needs some zonulin, as this protein is part of normal regulation. A low level does not rule out symptoms, since digestive problems often have causes other than barrier function.

What affects the level

Fiber and butyrate producers support the barrier: oats, barley, legumes, vegetables, flaxseed, and resistant starch from cooled potatoes. Polyphenols from berries, olive oil, and green tea are also associated with a stable barrier. High alcohol consumption, very high-fat meals, lack of sleep, and ongoing stress can have a negative effect. Taking breaks to rest matters too.

Frequently asked questions

Is leaky gut a recognized diagnosis?
Increased intestinal permeability has been described scientifically and is observed in several diseases. However, leaky gut is not recognized as a condition in its own right and is a subject of controversy in the scientific community. Your zonulin level provides an indication of the current state of your barrier. If symptoms persist, consult a doctor.

How reliable is zonulin measurement?
Commercially available testing methods are debated in the scientific community. There is evidence that the antibodies used detect proteins related to zonulin as well. The level also fluctuates with diet, exercise, and infections. So read the result as a guide in the context of your other values, not as a definitive measurement.

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