Melbourne Functional Medicine

Microbiome & Gut Health Test

Type

Blood Testing

Duration

30 min

Results

5 days

Comprehensive gut microbiome analysis assessing bacterial diversity, beneficial vs harmful bacteria ratios, digestive function markers, and gut-related health indicators. Home collection kit with detailed interpretation and dietary recommendations.

Digestive and gut health blood tests evaluate markers related to gastrointestinal function, inflammation, and infection. These may include calprotectin (a stool marker for intestinal inflammation that helps distinguish IBS from IBD), H. pylori testing (the bacterium that causes stomach ulcers and is linked to gastric cancer), bile acid levels, and various antibody tests. Gut health is increasingly recognized as central to overall wellness, with the gut microbiome influencing immune function, mental health, nutrient absorption, and systemic inflammation. Testing can help identify treatable conditions causing chronic digestive symptoms.

Key Details

Tests
Varies by panel
Fasting Required
Varies
Sample Type
Blood draw and/or stool sample
Turnaround
3–7 business days
Common Use
IBS/IBD differentiation, gut health assessment

Who Is This For?

Anyone with chronic digestive symptoms like bloating, pain, diarrhea, or constipation. People suspected of having inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's or ulcerative colitis). Those with a history of stomach ulcers or H. pylori infection. Anyone interested in optimizing their gut health as part of a broader wellness strategy.

What's Included

Specific markers vary by panel
May include H. pylori antibodies, celiac markers, or stool analysis

Preparation Required

Preparation varies by specific test. Blood-based tests generally don't require fasting. Stool-based tests require a sample collection kit provided by the lab. Some tests may require stopping certain medications (e.g., proton pump inhibitors for H. pylori) — check with your provider.

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