Whitelab
Faecal microbiome laboratory test

The faecal microbiome or microflora is a collection of microorganisms, mainly bacteria and fungi, living in the gut. These microbes form a complex ecosystem and have an impact on human health. Mapping the entire microbiome that makes up the gut flora. Identification of microbes undetectable by culture. The relative proportions of bacterial strains found in the gut flora. Identification of bacterial species required for intestinal function. Proportion of bacteria involved in inflammatory processes. Presence of pathogenic bacteria, fungi. It is recommended in cases of frequent abdominal distension, diarrhoea, constipation, gastrointestinal, autoimmune diseases, digestive disorders, food intolerances, obesity, diabetes, lethargy, fatigue, skin lesions.

The faecal microbiome varies from person to person and its composition can vary over time. Conventional microbiological methods cannot yet determine the detailed microbiome composition, nor can changes associated with a pathological condition be studied. With the advent of modern analytical techniques such as PCR technology and next-generation sequencing, it is now possible to analyse bacteria and fungi at high resolution, identify specific species and isolate microbial community types. Microbiome analysis is not based on culture but on molecular biology methods. This provides information on all microbial subtypes in a unique way.

The strains and species that make up the intestinal flora are responsible for maintaining the optimal functioning of the intestinal tract, as well as the immune system and endocrinological balance. In case of inappropriate diet and balance, the system can be upset, indicating inflammatory processes, increasing the risk of developing a number of diseases such as irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel diseases, obesity, diabetes, thyroid disease, cardiovascular disease, insulin resistance.