Gut Microbiome Test – Personalized Gut Health & Microbiome Analysis

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  • You can find details about our gut microbiome test here
  • Liquid buffer that preserves sample quality for 1–2 years at ambient temperature
  • 16S rRNA V3/V4 DNA sequencing with Illumina
    • In the InnerBuddies B2B Gut Health Operating System we also support full-length 16S sequencing with Oxford Nanopore and whole-genome shotgun metagenomics
  • We use an ISO-certified EU-based laboratory
  • Bead beating is used in the lab to improve lysis efficiency and support a more accurate balance of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria
  • Standard reference databases:
    • SILVA taxonomic database
    • MetaCyc pathway database
  • We calculate:
    • Taxa abundance (microbial composition)
    • Pathway abundance (microbial functions)
  • Your recommendations are based on a combination of:
    • Survey data
    • Your 3-day food diary
    • Your stool sample data
  • Our personalized recommendations also take into account:
    • Diets (e.g., vegan, low-FODMAP)
    • Allergies (we support all 14 EFSA/FDA allergies)
    • Intolerances
    • Relevant gut health conditions (such as IBS and IBD)
  • Our supplement recommendations (probiotics and prebiotics) are based on all scientifically validated probiotic strains
Single human gut microbiome test

The different types of gut health tests

You are currently on the Single test page.

  • Single gut test

    A one-time deep dive into your gut microbiome. Perfect if you are curious about your gut health and want to have a baseline to start with.

    All single tests include:

    • Base analysis

    Options:

    • Nutrition advice
    • Food diary advice
    • Supplement advice
    • Recipe advice

  • Gut membership

    Multiple deep dives into your gut microbiome. Perfect if you want to track your progress and discover the influence of your lifestyle changes.

    All memberships include:

    • Base analysis
    • Nutrition advice
    • Food diary advice
    • Supplement advice

    Options:

    • Essential: 1 test per year (for 2 years)
    • Plus: 2 tests per year
    • Premium: 3 tests per year

From stool sample to gut health insights in 5 steps

A simple, guided process - no laboratory visits, no complicated instructions.

  • 1. Connect your personal code to a user - Log in via the website and add your kit.

  • food recipe platform

    2. Complete the food diary - Fill in the products with corresponding quantities / units.

  • 3. Complete the survey - Fill in the answers with corresponding comments.

  • 4. Take a stool sample - Collect your stool sample and post it in the nearest postbox.

  • 5. View the results - Access the dashboard and check your recommendations.

The different types of recommendations

  • Nutrition advice

    Our experts provide you with nutritional recommendations based on your analysis and survey that nourish your bacteria functions.

    What do you get:

    Foods to increase and decrease with their corresponding portion size, intolerance tag, and impact score.

  • Food diary advice

    Our experts provide you with dietary adjustments based on your food diary that allows you to make more gut-friendly choices.

    What do you get:

    Targeted tips and swaps on the food items that you eat and drink during the three days prior of taking a stool sample.

  • Supplement advice

    Our experts provide you with pre- and probiotic suggestions based on your analysis and survey that targets your specific needs.

    What do you get:

    Probiotic strains and prebiotic foods or compounds with their corresponding evidence level, health goal, and safety considerations.

  • Recipe advice

    Our partner Noory provides you with daily menus based on our nutrition advice that enables you to easily stick to the recommendations.

    What do you get:

    A three-month subscription to Noory platform that generates meal plans based on your foods to increase and decrease.

Scientific references

A curated set of peer-reviewed publications relevant to personalized nutrition, microbiome-informed recommendations, and validated analysis standards (16S V3/V4, shotgun metagenomics, SILVA, MetaCyc).

Peer-reviewed research Links to peer-reviewed publications supporting personalized nutrition and validated microbiome analysis standards.

Academic context (Maastricht University)

InnerBuddies’ scope aligns with established academic research in microbiome science and nutritional interventions, including Maastricht University-linked publications (e.g., work involving Prof. Koen Venema who is involved directly with InnerBuddies). Explore UM research output via Maastricht University CRIS .

Personalized nutrition vs. generic advice Evidence that tailored guidance can improve dietary behaviour and outcomes.
Microbiome-informed personalization Evidence that gut microbiome features can help explain or predict individual responses.
Validated methods and reference databases Peer-reviewed standards (utilized by InnerBuddies) underpinning 16S V3/V4, shotgun metagenomics, SILVA taxonomy, and MetaCyc pathways.

Note: References are provided for transparency and scientific context. Individual results can vary; this is not medical advice.

Which stool tests are available?

We often get asked: Can you test other things in the same stool sample? Below is an overview of common stool test types and what InnerBuddies does and does not provide.

Budget bacteria panel (typically 20 to 40 bacteria)

Some providers test a fixed list of about 20 to 40 bacteria using a panel approach. It is often cheaper, but provides a more limited picture than DNA sequencing.

  • Limited to a fixed set of bacteria
  • Less suitable for seeing nuance in diversity
  • Often less context for truly personalized advice
Not the same as DNA sequencing

Parasite test (O and P)

Detection of parasites via microscopy or PCR, typically ordered via a clinician or lab for specific symptoms or travel history.

  • Parasites and cysts
  • Sometimes protozoa (PCR panel)
Not included with InnerBuddies

Calprotectin (inflammation marker)

Marker for intestinal inflammation. Typically requested via a clinician for medical triage and interpretation.

  • Inflammation activity
  • Medical interpretation required
Not included with InnerBuddies

Occult blood or FIT

Screening test for blood in stool, usually part of a preventive or medical pathway via a healthcare provider.

  • Hidden blood
  • Screening or diagnostic pathway
Not included with InnerBuddies

Bacterial pathogens (PCR panel)

Targeted testing for specific pathogens, often relevant for acute symptoms.

  • Pathogen panel
  • Acute infection focus
Not included with InnerBuddies

Digestion markers

Markers such as elastase or fat residue (lab dependent), sometimes used when digestion issues are suspected.

  • Enzyme and digestion markers
  • Depends on indication
Not included with InnerBuddies

Why InnerBuddies often provides more value

Not every stool test answers the same question. A budget panel can be useful for a quick, limited snapshot. But if you want to understand your gut flora in more depth and what to do next, a microbiome test based on DNA sequencing is typically more informative.

  • Broader picture: DNA sequencing provides a more complete profile than a fixed panel list.
  • More nuance: better visibility into diversity, balance, and relative abundance patterns.
  • Actionable translation: you receive personalized nutrition and lifestyle recommendations based on your data.
  • Built for action: the gut microbiome test is designed to answer what now, not only what do I see.

Tip: Choose a test based on your goal. For medical diagnostics, a healthcare provider is typically needed. For gut microbiome insights and practical guidance, InnerBuddies is the better fit.

Note: InnerBuddies focuses on a microbiome test and personalized guidance. For medical diagnostics such as inflammation markers, occult blood, or pathogens, a healthcare provider is typically required.

Summary: InnerBuddies provides a microbiome test, a gut microbiome test with DNA sequencing and personalized nutrition advice.

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Based in which country
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NL Flag Netherlands
UK Flag United Kingdom
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Microbiome Test Kit

Basic gut microbiome analysis including Diversity, Keystone Bacteria and Gut Health categories
€179
€185
$279

Personalised Nutrition Advice

Receiving personalised nutrition advice which is based on the individual gut microbiome analysis
€30
🔄 Subscription only

Personalised Food Diary Advice

Receiving personalised advice on the food diary that consumers fill in
€30

Personalised Supplement Advice

Receiving probiotics and prebiotics personalised advice which is based on the individual gut microbiome analysis
€45
🔄 Subscription only

Personalised Recipe Advice (3-month subscription)

Subscription-based access to food recipes which are personalised based on the individual gut microbiome analysis
€59
🔄 Subscription only

EU GDPR compliance

Does it comply with the EU GDPR regulation and is the data stored in the European Union?

Annual Subscription (1 Test)

Offers an annual subscription with 1 gut microbiome test per year included
€185
€225
£600
$1188

Annual Subscription (2 Test)

Offers an annual subscription with 2 gut microbiome tests per year included
€334
€360

Annual Subscription (3 Test)

Offers an annual subscription with 3 gut microbiome tests per year included
€459
€475

Science-Backed

Is the company aligned with a university and does the product provide science-backed results?
⭐⭐
⭐⭐

About Human Gut Microbiome Science

Our advanced gut microbiome test and microbiome analysis measures a broad spectrum of clinically relevant gut bacteria using high-resolution sequencing technology. We identify key bacterial groups linked to digestion, metabolism, immune regulation, inflammation, and long-term gut health. This includes beneficial fiber-fermenting bacteria, short-chain fatty acid producers, mucosal support bacteria, and species associated with gut imbalance. Understanding what bacteria we measure helps translate raw microbiome data into meaningful, personalized gut health insights rather than just a list of microbes.

  • Microbiome diversity

    Microbiome diversity refers to the richness and balance of different bacterial species in your gut ecosystem. A diverse microbiome is generally associated with resilient digestion, stronger immune function, better metabolic flexibility, and reduced risk of chronic inflammation. Low diversity, often detected through a gut microbiome diversity test, may correlate with gut imbalance, IBS-like symptoms, reduced microbial resilience, and less stable gut health over time.

  • Positive bacteria

    Positive bacteria are microbial species scientifically associated with beneficial functions such as fiber fermentation, butyrate production, gut barrier support, and anti-inflammatory effects. These bacteria help maintain a stable gut environment and are often linked to better digestive comfort, metabolic health, and long-term microbiome stability.

  • Negative bacteria

    In contrast, negative bacteria are species that, when relatively overrepresented, may be associated with gut dysbiosis, inflammation, reduced microbial diversity, or unfavorable metabolic activity. Importantly, microbiome balance—not the presence of a single species—determines overall gut health.

  • Microbial pathways

    Microbial pathways represent the functional potential of your microbiome—what your bacteria are capable of doing metabolically. These include fiber fermentation, vitamin synthesis, short-chain fatty acid production, bile acid metabolism, and inflammation-modulating pathways. Pathway analysis transforms microbiome sequencing into actionable biological insight, forming the basis of personalized gut health recommendations.

  • Healthy Cohort

    A Healthy Cohort refers to a scientifically defined reference population with microbiome patterns associated with stable gut health, good metabolic function, and lower inflammatory signatures. Comparing your microbiome against a healthy cohort enables deeper interpretation beyond simple bacterial counts.

  • Target Group Longevity

    The Target Group Longevity represents microbiome patterns commonly observed in individuals with long-term metabolic resilience, stable inflammation control, and healthy aging trajectories. Aligning your microbiome toward this profile is a core objective of personalized microbiome optimization and preventive gut health strategies.

    This is exclusive InnerBuddies IP.

  • Gut Microbiome Health Index (GMHI)

    The Gut Microbiome Health Index (GMHI) is a composite score derived from microbiome composition patterns observed in large population datasets. It reflects how closely your microbiome profile aligns with patterns typically seen in healthier gut ecosystems versus dysbiotic profiles. A higher GMHI generally indicates stronger microbial balance, while a lower score may suggest areas where personalized nutrition and lifestyle adjustments could support improvement.

    InnerBuddies has an exclusive IP license from EAFIT University in Latin America to use their GMHI index in its platform.

  • Data-Driven Personalized Nutrition Based on Your Gut Microbiome

    Your nutrition recommendations are generated using advanced analysis of your gut microbiome composition, bacterial diversity, and functional metabolic pathways, combined with insights from your 3-day food diary. InnerBuddies links real dietary intake data with microbiome functional pathway activity to understand how your gut bacteria interact with nutrients such as fiber, polyphenols, fats, and carbohydrates. This unique data-driven approach enables precise, microbiome-based nutrition guidance tailored to your individual microbial profile. All recommendations are developed within evidence-based nutritional frameworks and reviewed under the professional boundaries established by our dietician team, ensuring safe, practical, and personalized dietary advice that supports gut health, microbial balance, and metabolic function.

    This is exclusive InnerBuddies IP.

  • Evidence-Based Probiotic and Prebiotic Recommendations

    Your supplement recommendations are based on scientifically validated probiotic strains and targeted prebiotic fibers supported by clinical research. We analyze your gut microbiome profile to identify beneficial bacteria that may be underrepresented and map these findings to specific probiotic strains and complementary prebiotics known to support microbial balance. In addition, we consider the documented objectives and target populations for which each probiotic strain has been studied, helping align recommendations with your individual microbiome characteristics and nutritional context. This strain-level, evidence-based approach focuses on precision rather than generic probiotics, supporting beneficial bacteria, gut microbiome stability, and digestive function. All suggested probiotics and prebiotics are selected based on scientific evidence and microbiome compatibility.

    This is exclusive InnerBuddies IP.

Why your gut deserves InnerBuddies?

We collaborate with leading laboratories, research institutes, and innovation hubs to ensure accurate testing, scientific results, and personalised recommendations.

  • Accurate testing: Your stool sample is stabilized in a protective buffer and analysed with 16S rRNA sequencing in our ISO-certified laboratory, ensuring high-quality data.
  • Scientific results: Our experts combine microbiome knowledge, nutritional science, and AI technology to always give the best results.
  • Personalised recommendations: Your recommendations include personalised nutrition and supplement advice designed to ease bloating, improve immunity, and boost vitality.

Goodbye guesswork - Hello results

Struggling with abdominal pain, low energy, or irregular digestion? Your gut microbiome could be out of balance – but generic diets won’t fix it.

Our analysis identifies which bacterial pathways need support, which foods your gut thrives on, and what supplements can make a big difference.

✅ Fewer intestinal issues

✅ Better mood & more energy

✅ Improved overall wellbeing


Frequently Asked Questions Gut Microbiome Testing

Answers to the most common questions about the InnerBuddies gut microbiome test, methodology, and privacy.

General

What is a gut microbiome test?

A gut microbiome test is a stool-based laboratory analysis that examines the trillions of bacteria living in your digestive system. Our at-home microbiome test uses advanced DNA sequencing to measure bacterial diversity, beneficial and harmful microbes, and overall gut health. The results help you understand digestion, metabolism, immunity, and how your microbiome may influence symptoms like bloating, low energy, or gut imbalance.

How does an at-home microbiome test work?

Our microbiome test kit is simple to use at home. You collect a small stool sample, send it to our certified laboratory using the prepaid return package, and we perform DNA sequencing of your gut bacteria. Within a few weeks, you receive a detailed microbiome report with personalized nutrition and lifestyle recommendations to improve your gut health.

What does your microbiome test analyze?

Our gut microbiome analysis measures bacterial diversity, key beneficial bacteria, potentially harmful bacteria, and important microbial functions linked to digestion, metabolism, and inflammation. The test also evaluates your overall gut health score and identifies areas where your microbiome may be imbalanced (dysbiosis).

How accurate is a microbiome test?

Our microbiome test uses validated DNA sequencing technology (16S rRNA sequencing) performed in ISO-certified laboratories. This method is widely used in scientific microbiome research and provides a reliable overview of your gut bacterial composition. While microbiome testing is not a medical diagnostic tool, it offers valuable insights for optimizing nutrition and gut health.

Who should take a gut microbiome test?

A gut microbiome test is helpful for people who experience digestive issues such as bloating, irregular bowel movements, or gut discomfort, as well as individuals interested in optimizing their health, metabolism, and immune function. Many people use microbiome testing to better understand how diet, lifestyle, and supplements affect their gut bacteria.

Can a microbiome test help with IBS or gut symptoms?

A microbiome test cannot diagnose medical conditions, but it can reveal imbalances in gut bacteria that are often associated with digestive symptoms such as bloating, irregular digestion, and gut discomfort. Understanding your microbiome may help guide dietary and lifestyle changes that support gut balance and overall digestive health.

How often should you take a microbiome test?

The gut microbiome changes over time due to diet, lifestyle, antibiotics, and environment. Many people repeat a microbiome test every few months to track progress and see how their gut bacteria respond to nutrition and lifestyle changes. Longitudinal testing provides deeper insight into improving gut health over time.

What makes your microbiome test different?

Our microbiome test combines advanced DNA sequencing, scientific gut health analysis, and personalized nutrition guidance. Instead of only showing raw bacteria data, we translate your microbiome into clear insights and actionable recommendations designed to help improve digestion, metabolism, and overall gut balance.

How long does it take to get microbiome test results?

After your sample arrives at our laboratory, microbiome sequencing and analysis typically takes 3 to 4 weeks. Once complete, you will receive an email and will receive access to your full gut microbiome report online, including your gut health score, bacterial diversity, and personalized recommendations.

How can you improve your gut microbiome?

Improving your gut microbiome usually involves dietary changes, increasing fiber intake, consuming prebiotics and probiotics, reducing processed foods, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Your personalized microbiome report provides tailored recommendations based on your unique gut bacteria composition.

Methodology & transparency

What are the limitations of a microbiome test?

Microbiome testing provides a snapshot of gut bacteria at the time of sampling. Results can vary with diet, recent illness, travel, medications, and sample collection. It is not a diagnostic test and should not replace medical evaluation for persistent or severe symptoms.

What can a microbiome test NOT tell you?

A microbiome test does not diagnose disease, does not replace colonoscopy or clinical labs, and typically does not directly measure viruses or parasites unless explicitly included. It focuses on bacterial patterns and gut health insights for nutrition guidance.

Do antibiotics affect microbiome test results?

Yes. Antibiotics can significantly alter gut bacteria. For the most meaningful baseline, it’s often recommended to avoid testing immediately after antibiotics and to consider retesting later to track recovery (follow your clinician’s advice if you have a medical condition).

Lab quality & reliability

Where is my stool sample analyzed?

Samples are analyzed in a ISO-certified professional laboratory in Austria using standardized sequencing workflows (Illumina MiSeq) and quality-control steps. The goal is reproducible measurement of bacterial composition and diversity from stool samples.

How do you ensure sample quality and reliable results?

Reliability depends on correct sample collection, safe transport, laboratory QC, and validated bioinformatics. We use standardized protocols and quality checks to detect insufficient sequencing depth or low-quality reads before producing your report.

Is 16S sequencing clinically validated?

16S sequencing is widely used in scientific research for profiling gut bacteria. It is best suited for microbiome composition and diversity insights, not as a stand-alone medical diagnostic tool.

Personalization, recommendations, and accountability

How are the recommendations generated?

Recommendations are based on your microbiome profile combined with your questionnaire and your 3-day food diary. The output focuses on actionable nutrition and supplement guidance aligned with current microbiome science.

Are recommendations medical advice?

No. Recommendations are educational and intended for wellness and nutrition support. If you have a medical condition, are pregnant, take medication, or have severe symptoms, you should consult a qualified healthcare professional before making major changes.

Privacy & data security

What happens to my data and is it GDPR-compliant?

Your personal data and test results are handled according to applicable privacy and security standards, and we aim for GDPR-aligned processing for EU customers. You should review the privacy policy for details on retention, deletion, and consent controls.

Can I delete my account and results?

You can request deletion of your personal account data and results according to the deletion process described in the privacy policy. This supports transparency and user control.

Note: If you have persistent or severe symptoms, consult a qualified healthcare professional. This product provides wellness and nutrition insights and does not diagnose disease.

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