Gut Microbiome Testing

Gut Microbiome Testing

Australia's most comprehensive testing
& expert review

Australia's most comprehensive testing
& expert review

Get answers when standard tests show "nothing wrong" but you still have symptoms. Our comprehensive gut testing reveals what others miss—and we guide your healing until you're better.

Get answers when standard tests show "nothing wrong" but you still have symptoms. Our comprehensive gut testing reveals what others miss—and we guide your healing until you're better.

Watch this video to see how we can help (5 min)

Watch this video to see
how we can help (5 min)

WATCH NOW

Trusted by 2,000+ Australians

Trusted by 2,000+ Australians

Metagenomic sequencing

Metagenomic sequencing

Microbiologist review included

Microbiologist review included

You've had standard stool tests.
Blood work. Maybe even a colonoscopy.
Everything came back "normal."

You've had standard stool tests. Blood work. Maybe even a colonoscopy. Everything came back "normal."

Yet you're still dealing with bloating, irregular bowels, fatigue, brain fog, and digestive discomfort that won't go away.


Here's why standard tests miss your problem: They only look for acute infections like Salmonella or Giardia. They can't see bacterial ecology imbalances, fungal overgrowth, depleted beneficial bacteria, or what your gut bacteria are actually producing.


We use advanced gut microbiome testing that analyses your complete gut ecosystem using DNA sequencing technology—revealing the root causes standard pathology tests can't detect.


More importantly: Every test is personally reviewed by our microbiologist AND naturopathic team. You don't get abandoned with a PDF report. We interpret your results, create your healing protocol, and support you until you're better.

Yet you're still dealing with bloating, irregular bowels, fatigue, brain fog, and digestive discomfort that won't go away.


Here's why standard tests miss your problem: They only look for acute infections like Salmonella or Giardia. They can't see bacterial ecology imbalances, fungal overgrowth, depleted beneficial bacteria, or what your gut bacteria are actually producing.


We use advanced gut microbiome testing that analyses your complete gut ecosystem using DNA sequencing technology—revealing the root causes standard pathology tests can't detect.


More importantly: Every test is personally reviewed by our microbiologist AND naturopathic team. You don't get abandoned with a PDF report. We interpret your results, create your healing protocol, and support you until you're better.

Yet you're still dealing with bloating, irregular bowels, fatigue, brain fog, and digestive discomfort that won't go away.


Here's why standard tests miss your problem: They only look for acute infections like Salmonella or Giardia. They can't see bacterial ecology imbalances, fungal overgrowth, depleted beneficial bacteria, or what your gut bacteria are actually producing.


We use advanced gut microbiome testing that analyses your complete gut ecosystem using DNA sequencing technology—revealing the root causes standard pathology tests can't detect.


More importantly: Every test is personally reviewed by our microbiologist AND naturopathic team. You don't get abandoned with a PDF report. We interpret your results, create your healing protocol, and support you until you're better.

See how our testing works
(5 min)

WATCH NOW

Book your free 15-minute evaluation call

BOOK FREE CALL

Why standard tests miss your gut problems

Why standard tests miss your gut problems

Standard GP stool tests and pathology screening are designed to catch acute infections—food poisoning, bacterial infections requiring immediate treatment, or contamination parasites like Giardia.


But they're not designed to identify:


  • Bacterial imbalances that cause chronic bloating, gas, and irregular bowels

  • Fungal overgrowth, parasites, and chronic infections

  • Depleted beneficial bacteria that protect your gut lining and immune system

  • What your bacteria are producing—healing metabolites like butyrate, or inflammatory toxins like LPS


This is why you can have "normal" test results but still suffer daily symptoms—or have been diagnosed with IBS, SIBO, histamine intolerance, or autoimmune conditions like IBD, Crohn's, or ulcerative colitis without understanding the root cause.


Our comprehensive testing also helps identify gut imbalances connected to:


  • Skin conditions (eczema, acne, rosacea, psoriasis)

  • Hormone issues (endometriosis, PCOS, irregular cycles)

  • Autoimmune conditions (rheumatoid arthritis, Hashimoto's, IBD)

  • Nervous system symptoms (anxiety, brain fog, mood swings)


Our comprehensive gut microbiome testing uses research-grade DNA sequencing to analyse your complete gut ecosystem—identifying 200-800+ bacterial species, fungal overgrowth, parasites, beneficial bacteria levels, and functional markers that standard tests can't detect.

What makes our gut testing different

What makes our gut testing different

Comprehensive DNA Analysis


We use research-grade metagenomic sequencing or PCR-based testing (depending on your case) that identifies:


  • 200-800+ bacterial species (not just 5-10 pathogens)

  • Fungal species like Candida, Saccharomyces

  • Parasites including Blastocystis and Giardia

  • Beneficial bacteria levels (Akkermansia, Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium)

  • Inflammatory markers and leaky gut indicators

  • Functional markers: Whether your bacteria are producing beneficial compounds (butyrate, vitamins) or toxins, and inflammatory metabolites.


How We Compare to GI-MAP Testing


Many Australians searching for "GI-MAP test Australia" find us—and discover we offer something more comprehensive.

GI-MAP does include a PCR-based test that identifies pathogens, parasites, and some beneficial bacteria. And it is more detailed than a standard GP stool test as it includes useful markers like zonulin (leaky gut) and calprotectin (inflammation).


If you've been considering GI-MAP testing, our comprehensive programs provide everything GI-MAP offers plus expert interpretation, personalised protocols, and support until you're healed—often for similar investment when you factor in the full program value.

✅ Prana Thrive Testing

Our approach goes
beyond GI-MAP:

More comprehensive bacterial analysis (metagenomic sequencing available)


Dual expert review

(microbiologist & naturopath)


Personalised healing protocols based on YOUR results


Ongoing support through your healing journey


Follow-up testing included to confirm resolution

⚠️ GI-MAP Testing

GI-MAP
has limitations

GI-MAP
has limitations

Identifies 50-100 bacterial species (we identify 200-800+)


Limited fungal detection

(we comprehensively test all fungi)


Often sold as test-only

(no interpretation or support included)


Generic recommendations

(not personalised protocols)


No follow-up or retesting included

Dual expert review -

the Prana Thrive difference

Dual expert review -

the Prana Thrive difference

Smiling woman
Smiling woman

Meet Victoria: Your Microbiologist

Every test result is personally analysed by Victoria, our in-house microbiologist. Victoria doesn't just validate automated reports—she identifies subtle markers, catches patterns that algorithms miss, and provides clinical context for your findings.


No other gut health clinic in Australia has a microbiologist reviewing every single test.


After Victoria's analysis, Amanda (our naturopath who's reviewed 2,000+ microbiome tests) creates your personalised healing protocol based on proven patterns and your unique results.


You're not handed a PDF and told "good luck." You're guided by two experts who understand exactly what your results mean and how to heal them.


Complete Support System - Not Just Testing


We don't sell tests separately because data without guidance rarely leads to healing.

Every program includes:

✓ Comprehensive testing (PCR or metagenomic sequencing)
✓ Dual expert review (Victoria + Amanda personally analyse your results)
✓ 60-90 minute results consultation explaining everything in plain English
✓ Step-by-step healing protocol specific to your results (not generic advice)
✓ Ongoing support through your 3-6 month healing journey
✓ Protocol adjustments as you progress
✓ Follow-up testing to confirm your gut has healed


You don't just get answers - you get results.

Every test result is personally analysed by Victoria, our in-house microbiologist. Victoria doesn't just validate automated reports—she identifies subtle markers, catches patterns that algorithms miss, and provides clinical context for your findings.


No other gut health clinic in Australia has a microbiologist reviewing every single test.


After Victoria's analysis, Amanda (our naturopath who's reviewed 2,000+ microbiome tests) creates your personalised healing protocol based on proven patterns and your unique results.


You're not handed a PDF and told "good luck." You're guided by two experts who understand exactly what your results mean and how to heal them.


Complete Support System - Not Just Testing


We don't sell tests separately because data without guidance rarely leads to healing.

Every program includes:

✓ Comprehensive testing (PCR or metagenomic sequencing)


✓ Dual expert review (Victoria + Amanda personally analyse your results)


✓ 60-90 minute results consultation explaining everything in plain English


✓ Step-by-step healing protocol specific to your results (not generic advice)


✓ Ongoing support through your 3-6 month healing journey


✓ Protocol adjustments as you progress


✓ Follow-up testing to confirm your gut has healed


You don't just get answers - you get results.

Gut microbiome testing vs standard tests:
the comparison

Gut microbiome testing vs standard tests:
the comparison

What We Test

What

We Test

Standard GP

Stool Test

Standard GP

Stool Test

GI-MAP Test

GI-MAP

Test

Our

Comprehensive Testing

Our

Testing

Bacterial

Species

Identified

Bacterial

Species

Identified

❌

5-10

pathogens only

❌

5-10

pathogens only

⚠️

50-100

species

⚠️

50-100

species

✅

200-800+

species

✅

200-800+

species

Fungi/Candida Detection

Fungi/

Candida Detection

⚠️

Limited

⚠️

Limited

⚠️

Limited

⚠️

Limited

✅

Yes - comprehensive

✅

Yes - comprehensive

Parasite

Detection

Parasite

Detection

⚠️

Sometimes

(if requested)

⚠️

Sometimes

(if requested)

✅

Yes

✅

Yes

✅

Yes -

advanced

detection

✅

Yes -

advanced

detection

Beneficial

Bacteria Levels

Beneficial

Bacteria

Levels

❌

No

❌

No

⚠️

Limited

⚠️

Limited

✅

Yes -

detailed analysis

✅

Yes -

detailed

analysis

What Bacteria

Are Producing

What

Bacteria Are

Producing

❌

No

❌

No

❌

No

❌

No

✅

Yes -

metabolites

& toxins

✅

Yes -

metabolites

& toxins

Expert

Interpretation

Expert

Interpretation

⚠️

GP review

(5 min)

⚠️

GP review

(5 min)

❌

Usually

sold separately

❌

Usually

sold separately

✅

Microbiologist

& Naturopath

included

✅

Microbiologist

& Naturopath

included

Personalised

Protocol

Personalised

Protocol

❌

No

❌

No

❌

No

❌

No

✅

Yes -

specific to

your results

✅

Yes -

specific to

your results

Ongoing

Support

Ongoing

Support

❌

No

❌

No

❌

No

❌

No

✅

Yes -

until you're

healed

✅

Yes -

until you're

healed

*Comprehensive programs include testing, expert review, personalised protocol, ongoing support, and follow-up testing - everything you need for lasting results, not just data.

*Comprehensive programs include testing, expert review, personalised protocol, ongoing support, and follow-up testing - everything you need for lasting results, not just data.

See Exactly What We Test For
(5 min video)

What your test results reveal

What your test results reveal

Bacterial Imbalances


  • Any pathogenic bacteria overgrowing (e.g., Klebsiella, Citrobacter, Proteus)

  • Which protective bacteria are depleted (affecting your immunity and gut lining)

  • Your diversity score and what it means for your health

  • SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth) and IMO (intestinal methane overgrowth) markers


Hidden Infections & Chronic Patterns


  • Parasites that standard tests miss (e.g., Blastocystis, Dientamoeba fragilis)

  • Post-infectious dysbiosis (lingering effects from food poisoning, gastro, or overseas travel)

  • Fungal infections when present (picked up via culture and DNA analysis)

  • Histamine-producing bacteria (causing food intolerance symptoms)


Functional Analysis


  • Are your bacteria producing healing compounds? (Butyrate strengthens your gut lining; B vitamins support energy)

  • Or inflammatory toxins? (LPS linked to "leaky gut"; TMA linked to cardiovascular issues)

  • Leaky gut indicators (zonulin and other permeability markers)

Clinical interpretation -

What it all means

Clinical interpretation - What it all means

Our team identifies the root causes behind conditions like:


  • IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) - identifying specific bacterial imbalances causing your symptoms

  • SIBO/IMO (small intestinal bacterial or methane overgrowth)

  • Histamine intolerance - overgrowth of histamine-producing bacteria

  • Post-infectious IBS - gut dysbiosis after food poisoning, gastro, or antibiotics

  • IBD patterns (inflammatory bowel disease - Crohn's, ulcerative colitis)

  • Leaky gut with food sensitivities (intestinal permeability driving reactions)

  • Fungal or parasitic infections when present


Plus gut connections to:


  • Skin conditions (eczema, acne, rosacea, psoriasis)

  • Hormone imbalances (endometriosis, PCOS, irregular cycles)

  • Autoimmune conditions (rheumatoid arthritis, Hashimoto's)

  • Mental health symptoms (anxiety, depression, brain fog)

How we help you heal IBS
(The AIM Method™)

How we help you heal IBS (The AIM Method™)

Our proven AIM Method™ has helped over 2,000 clients heal complex IBS cases. Unlike conventional approaches that just manage symptoms, we use a systematic three-phase process to identify your root cause and guide you to lasting healing.

Analyse

Research-grade microbiome testing reveals what standard medical tests miss -

SIBO, dysbiosis, infections, and gut lining issues driving your symptoms.


Integrate

Personalised healing protocol built specifically for YOUR test results -

targeted antimicrobials, gut repair, and strategic nutrition (not generic templates).


Monitor

Ongoing support for 3-6 months with protocol adjustments, follow-up consultations, and retest to confirm you've healed at the microbial level.


Here's exactly how this unfolds for you:

Analyse

Research-grade microbiome testing reveals what standard medical tests miss - SIBO, dysbiosis, infections, and gut lining issues driving your symptoms.


Integrate

Personalised healing protocol built specifically for YOUR test results -

targeted antimicrobials, gut repair, and strategic nutrition (not generic templates).


Monitor

Ongoing support for 3-6 months with protocol adjustments, follow-up consultations, and retest to confirm you've healed at the microbial level.


Here's exactly how this unfolds for you:

Our testing to healing process

Our testing to healing process

Step 1: Free Evaluation Call (15 minutes)


Discuss your symptoms and health history. We'll determine if comprehensive testing is right for you, or if you'd benefit from starting with foundational changes first.


Book your free evaluation call

Step 2: Test Kit Delivery


  • Sent directly to your door anywhere in Australia

  • Simple collection process (5 minutes at home)

  • Prepaid return postage included

  • Discreet packaging

Step 3: Laboratory Analysis (2-4 weeks)


Your sample undergoes advanced DNA sequencing and bioinformatics analysis at our partner laboratory.

Step 4: Expert Review


Before your consultation, Victoria (microbiologist) and Amanda (naturopath) thoroughly analyse your results together—identifying patterns, validating findings, and preparing your personalised protocol.

Step 5: Results Consultation (60-90 minutes)


Via video call, we explain:

  • What we found (in plain English, not medical jargon)

  • Why you have symptoms (the root causes, not just labels)

  • Your personalised healing protocol (step-by-step plan)

  • Timeline and expectations (realistic healing milestones)

You'll leave with complete clarity and a clear path forward.

Step 6: Your Healing Protocol


Your protocol is specific to YOUR test results and may include:

  • Targeted antimicrobials (if pathogenic bacteria, fungi, or parasites are present)

  • Specific probiotics for your bacterial depletions (not generic strains)

  • Gut lining repair (compounds that heal intestinal permeability)

  • Dietary guidance (temporary modifications, not restrictive forever)

  • Lifestyle recommendations (stress, sleep, movement—all affect your microbiome)

Step 7: Ongoing Support


  • Follow-up consultations (check-ins at key milestones)

  • Protocol adjustments (we adapt as your symptoms improve)

  • Retesting at 3-4 months (confirm your gut has healed, not just symptom suppression)


Most clients notice initial improvements within 2-4 weeks. Significant healing typically occurs within 3-6 months.

Who should get comprehensive gut testing?

Who should get comprehensive gut testing?

✅ Testing

You're an ideal candidate if:

You've had gut symptoms for 6+ months with no clear answers


Standard medical tests show "nothing wrong" but you're still suffering


You've tried elimination diets, probiotics, and supplements without lasting results


You have symptoms beyond digestion (skin issues, fatigue, brain fog, mood changes)


Your symptoms started after food poisoning, antibiotics, or overseas travel


You're tired of guessing and want data-driven answers

🤔 Not Testing

You may not need testing if:

Your symptoms are mild and occasional (not chronic)


You haven't tried basic dietary changes yet (we can guide you on this during your free call)


You're looking for a quick fix (healing takes commitment over 3-6 months)


You're not ready to follow a protocol (testing without action won't help)

You may also benefit if you've been diagnosed with:


  • IBS, SIBO, or histamine intolerance but treatments aren't working

  • Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD, Crohn's, ulcerative colitis) and want to understand your microbiome triggers

  • Skin conditions (eczema, acne, rosacea, psoriasis) that haven't responded to topical treatments

  • Hormone issues (endometriosis, PCOS, irregular cycles) with digestive symptoms

  • Autoimmune conditions where gut health plays a role

  • Anxiety, depression, or brain fog alongside digestive issues


Not sure if testing is right for you?


Book a free 15-minute evaluation call - we'll give you honest guidance, even if testing isn't the next step.

See how our testing works
(5 min)

WATCH NOW

Book your free 15-minute evaluation call

BOOK FREE CALL

5 STAR REVIEWS

Real results from real Australians

Real results from real Australians

 "After suffering for two years with chronic stomach pain, bloating, nausea and anxiety, and exhausting every medical treatment, I am finally free from all of my symptoms. Prana Thrive's testing found what my GP and gastroenterologist missed."

— Bernard, Melbourne, VIC

"I no longer suffer from tummy aches, bloating, or rush to the toilet after meals. My confidence has finally returned. The microbiologist review made all the difference—Victoria caught patterns my previous practitioner completely missed."

— Claire, Brisbane, QLD

"Standard tests showed nothing, but Prana Thrive's comprehensive testing found parasites and bacterial imbalances. Four months later, I'm eating foods I hadn't touched in years. My skin cleared up, my energy came back, and I finally have answers."

— Sarah, Perth, WA

Read more client success stories

Stop guessing. Start healing.

Stop guessing. Start healing.

You've tried enough random supplements.
Followed enough restrictive diets.
Seen enough practitioners who couldn't explain your symptoms.

It's time for answers.


Book your free 15-minute evaluation call to discuss:

✓ Your symptoms and health history
✓ Whether comprehensive testing is right for you
✓ How our approach differs from what you've tried
✓ Your path to healing

Book your free 15-minute evaluation call

Book your free 15-minute evaluation call

BOOK FREE CALL

No pressure. No obligation. Just clarity on what's causing your symptoms and whether our comprehensive testing with expert support can help.

Because "your tests are normal" doesn't mean nothing's wrong.

It means you need better testing.

Australia-wide
gut microbiome testing service

Australia-wide
gut microbiome testing service

We're proudly based in Perth, Western Australia,
and work with clients across the entire country:

Perth & WA
(Fremantle, Joondalup, Mandurah, regional WA)

Sydney & NSW

Melbourne & VIC

Brisbane & QLD

Adelaide & SA

Hobart & TAS

Canberra & ACT

Darwin & NT


Regional and remote areas across Australia

All consultations are conducted via secure video call.

Your test kit ships Australia-wide with prepaid return postage included.

Whether you're in Perth or Cairns, you get the same comprehensive testing & expert review from our microbiologist Victoria and naturopath Amanda.

Frequently asked questions
about gut microbiome testing

Frequently asked questions about gut microbiome testing

Is gut microbiome testing covered by Medicare or private health insurance?

No, comprehensive microbiome testing is not covered by Medicare or private health insurance in Australia. Standard pathology stool tests (which only screen for acute infections) are bulk-billed, but they can't detect the bacterial imbalances, fungal overgrowth, or dysbiosis patterns that cause chronic symptoms. While our programs are an out-of-pocket investment, many clients find they save money compared to months or years of trial-and-error with supplements, restrictive diets, and practitioners who couldn't identify the root cause.

Is gut microbiome testing covered by Medicare or private health insurance?

No, comprehensive microbiome testing is not covered by Medicare or private health insurance in Australia. Standard pathology stool tests (which only screen for acute infections) are bulk-billed, but they can't detect the bacterial imbalances, fungal overgrowth, or dysbiosis patterns that cause chronic symptoms. While our programs are an out-of-pocket investment, many clients find they save money compared to months or years of trial-and-error with supplements, restrictive diets, and practitioners who couldn't identify the root cause.

Is gut microbiome testing covered by Medicare or private health insurance?

No, comprehensive microbiome testing is not covered by Medicare or private health insurance in Australia. Standard pathology stool tests (which only screen for acute infections) are bulk-billed, but they can't detect the bacterial imbalances, fungal overgrowth, or dysbiosis patterns that cause chronic symptoms. While our programs are an out-of-pocket investment, many clients find they save money compared to months or years of trial-and-error with supplements, restrictive diets, and practitioners who couldn't identify the root cause.

How is this different from ordering a gut microbiome test online myself?

Many Australians order direct-to-consumer gut tests online - whether international brands like Viome, Thorne, and Ombre, or Australian companies selling testing kits through pharmacies and practitioners. These tests give you data in a PDF report, but most people struggle to interpret the results or know what to do next. Our programs include dual expert review - Victoria (microbiologist) validates findings and identifies subtle patterns that automated reports miss, while Amanda (naturopath) creates your personalised healing protocol based on 2,000+ tests reviewed. More importantly, we provide ongoing support through your 3-6 month healing journey, adjusting protocols as needed and retesting to confirm resolution. You're not abandoned with data - you're guided to healing.

How is this different from ordering a gut microbiome test online myself?

Many Australians order direct-to-consumer gut tests online - whether international brands like Viome, Thorne, and Ombre, or Australian companies selling testing kits through pharmacies and practitioners. These tests give you data in a PDF report, but most people struggle to interpret the results or know what to do next. Our programs include dual expert review - Victoria (microbiologist) validates findings and identifies subtle patterns that automated reports miss, while Amanda (naturopath) creates your personalised healing protocol based on 2,000+ tests reviewed. More importantly, we provide ongoing support through your 3-6 month healing journey, adjusting protocols as needed and retesting to confirm resolution. You're not abandoned with data - you're guided to healing.

How is this different from ordering a gut microbiome test online myself?

Many Australians order direct-to-consumer gut tests online - whether international brands like Viome, Thorne, and Ombre, or Australian companies selling testing kits through pharmacies and practitioners. These tests give you data in a PDF report, but most people struggle to interpret the results or know what to do next. Our programs include dual expert review - Victoria (microbiologist) validates findings and identifies subtle patterns that automated reports miss, while Amanda (naturopath) creates your personalised healing protocol based on 2,000+ tests reviewed. More importantly, we provide ongoing support through your 3-6 month healing journey, adjusting protocols as needed and retesting to confirm resolution. You're not abandoned with data - you're guided to healing.

What testing technology do you use?

We use both PCR-based testing (like GI-MAP) and metagenomic sequencing (research-grade DNA analysis), choosing the most appropriate method for each client's case. PCR testing is highly sensitive for detecting specific pathogens, parasites, and functional markers. Metagenomic sequencing provides broader bacterial diversity analysis and can identify 200-800+ species. During your evaluation call, we'll discuss which testing approach suits your symptoms, health history, and clinical picture. Both methods are far more comprehensive than standard pathology stool tests.

What testing technology do you use?

We use both PCR-based testing (like GI-MAP) and metagenomic sequencing (research-grade DNA analysis), choosing the most appropriate method for each client's case. PCR testing is highly sensitive for detecting specific pathogens, parasites, and functional markers. Metagenomic sequencing provides broader bacterial diversity analysis and can identify 200-800+ species. During your evaluation call, we'll discuss which testing approach suits your symptoms, health history, and clinical picture. Both methods are far more comprehensive than standard pathology stool tests.

What testing technology do you use?

We use both PCR-based testing (like GI-MAP) and metagenomic sequencing (research-grade DNA analysis), choosing the most appropriate method for each client's case. PCR testing is highly sensitive for detecting specific pathogens, parasites, and functional markers. Metagenomic sequencing provides broader bacterial diversity analysis and can identify 200-800+ species. During your evaluation call, we'll discuss which testing approach suits your symptoms, health history, and clinical picture. Both methods are far more comprehensive than standard pathology stool tests.

Do I need to prepare for the test? Can I take it while on antibiotics or probiotics?

No fasting or special preparation required. You collect a simple stool sample at home using the kit we send you, then post it back in the prepaid envelope. However, we recommend avoiding antibiotics for 4 weeks before testing (if medically safe to do so) and stopping antimicrobial supplements for 2 weeks before collection, as these can temporarily alter your microbiome and affect accuracy. Probiotics are fine to continue. We'll give you detailed preparation instructions with your test kit. If you're currently on antibiotics for an active infection, we'll discuss optimal testing timing during your evaluation call.

Do I need to prepare for the test? Can I take it while on antibiotics or probiotics?

No fasting or special preparation required. You collect a simple stool sample at home using the kit we send you, then post it back in the prepaid envelope. However, we recommend avoiding antibiotics for 4 weeks before testing (if medically safe to do so) and stopping antimicrobial supplements for 2 weeks before collection, as these can temporarily alter your microbiome and affect accuracy. Probiotics are fine to continue. We'll give you detailed preparation instructions with your test kit. If you're currently on antibiotics for an active infection, we'll discuss optimal testing timing during your evaluation call.

Do I need to prepare for the test? Can I take it while on antibiotics or probiotics?

No fasting or special preparation required. You collect a simple stool sample at home using the kit we send you, then post it back in the prepaid envelope. However, we recommend avoiding antibiotics for 4 weeks before testing (if medically safe to do so) and stopping antimicrobial supplements for 2 weeks before collection, as these can temporarily alter your microbiome and affect accuracy. Probiotics are fine to continue. We'll give you detailed preparation instructions with your test kit. If you're currently on antibiotics for an active infection, we'll discuss optimal testing timing during your evaluation call.

How long until I see results and start feeling better?

Testing turnaround: 2-4 weeks from when the lab receives your sample until your results consultation is scheduled. Healing timeline: Most clients notice initial improvements within 2-4 weeks of starting their protocol (reduced bloating, more regular bowel movements, better energy). Significant healing typically occurs within 3-6 months - this is how long it takes to rebalance bacteria, heal gut lining damage, and address root causes (not just suppress symptoms). We retest at 3-4 months to confirm your gut has healed at the microbial level, not just symptom improvement. Sustainable healing takes time, but it's worth it to finally be free from chronic symptoms.

How long until I see results and start feeling better?

Testing turnaround: 2-4 weeks from when the lab receives your sample until your results consultation is scheduled. Healing timeline: Most clients notice initial improvements within 2-4 weeks of starting their protocol (reduced bloating, more regular bowel movements, better energy). Significant healing typically occurs within 3-6 months - this is how long it takes to rebalance bacteria, heal gut lining damage, and address root causes (not just suppress symptoms). We retest at 3-4 months to confirm your gut has healed at the microbial level, not just symptom improvement. Sustainable healing takes time, but it's worth it to finally be free from chronic symptoms.

How long until I see results and start feeling better?

Testing turnaround: 2-4 weeks from when the lab receives your sample until your results consultation is scheduled. Healing timeline: Most clients notice initial improvements within 2-4 weeks of starting their protocol (reduced bloating, more regular bowel movements, better energy). Significant healing typically occurs within 3-6 months - this is how long it takes to rebalance bacteria, heal gut lining damage, and address root causes (not just suppress symptoms). We retest at 3-4 months to confirm your gut has healed at the microbial level, not just symptom improvement. Sustainable healing takes time, but it's worth it to finally be free from chronic symptoms.

What if I've already had a SIBO breath test? Do I still need comprehensive testing?

SIBO breath tests only detect bacterial overgrowth in your small intestine - specifically hydrogen and methane gases produced by bacteria. They can't identify: Which specific bacteria are overgrowing (breath tests just measure gas, not species) Fungal overgrowth (doesn't produce hydrogen/methane) Parasites (completely invisible on breath tests) Large intestine dysbiosis (breath tests only sample small intestine) Beneficial bacteria depletions (breath tests don't measure protective species). Many of our clients had "negative" SIBO breath tests but comprehensive stool testing revealed parasites like Blastocystis, histamine-producing bacteria overgrowth, or severe beneficial bacteria depletion - all of which cause SIBO-like symptoms (bloating, gas, irregular bowels) but require completely different treatment protocols. If your SIBO breath test was negative but you still have symptoms, comprehensive microbiome testing often reveals what was missed.

What if I've already had a SIBO breath test? Do I still need comprehensive testing?

SIBO breath tests only detect bacterial overgrowth in your small intestine - specifically hydrogen and methane gases produced by bacteria. They can't identify: Which specific bacteria are overgrowing (breath tests just measure gas, not species) Fungal overgrowth (doesn't produce hydrogen/methane) Parasites (completely invisible on breath tests) Large intestine dysbiosis (breath tests only sample small intestine) Beneficial bacteria depletions (breath tests don't measure protective species). Many of our clients had "negative" SIBO breath tests but comprehensive stool testing revealed parasites like Blastocystis, histamine-producing bacteria overgrowth, or severe beneficial bacteria depletion - all of which cause SIBO-like symptoms (bloating, gas, irregular bowels) but require completely different treatment protocols. If your SIBO breath test was negative but you still have symptoms, comprehensive microbiome testing often reveals what was missed.

What if I've already had a SIBO breath test? Do I still need comprehensive testing?

SIBO breath tests only detect bacterial overgrowth in your small intestine - specifically hydrogen and methane gases produced by bacteria. They can't identify: Which specific bacteria are overgrowing (breath tests just measure gas, not species) Fungal overgrowth (doesn't produce hydrogen/methane) Parasites (completely invisible on breath tests) Large intestine dysbiosis (breath tests only sample small intestine) Beneficial bacteria depletions (breath tests don't measure protective species). Many of our clients had "negative" SIBO breath tests but comprehensive stool testing revealed parasites like Blastocystis, histamine-producing bacteria overgrowth, or severe beneficial bacteria depletion - all of which cause SIBO-like symptoms (bloating, gas, irregular bowels) but require completely different treatment protocols. If your SIBO breath test was negative but you still have symptoms, comprehensive microbiome testing often reveals what was missed.

I live in regional/rural Australia. Can I still access your services?

Absolutely! We work with clients across all of Australia - from major cities to remote regional areas. All consultations are conducted via secure video call (Zoom), and your test kit ships directly to your address with prepaid return postage. As long as you have internet access for video consultations, we can support you wherever you're located. We've successfully helped clients in rural Queensland, remote Western Australia, Tasmania, and everywhere in between.

I live in regional/rural Australia. Can I still access your services?

Absolutely! We work with clients across all of Australia - from major cities to remote regional areas. All consultations are conducted via secure video call (Zoom), and your test kit ships directly to your address with prepaid return postage. As long as you have internet access for video consultations, we can support you wherever you're located. We've successfully helped clients in rural Queensland, remote Western Australia, Tasmania, and everywhere in between.

I live in regional/rural Australia. Can I still access your services?

Absolutely! We work with clients across all of Australia - from major cities to remote regional areas. All consultations are conducted via secure video call (Zoom), and your test kit ships directly to your address with prepaid return postage. As long as you have internet access for video consultations, we can support you wherever you're located. We've successfully helped clients in rural Queensland, remote Western Australia, Tasmania, and everywhere in between.

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