Gut Microbiome Tests in IBD: Do we need one?

IBD & Gut Microbiome Tests: Are they useful? Should you buy one?


What we know about the gut microbiome and IBD

Research shows us that people with IBD tend to have:

  • Lower diversity of beneficial gut bacteria, such as Firmicutes, Bacteroides, and F. prausnitzii

  • More harmful bacteria like Enterobacteriaceae and R. gnavus


What we don’t (yet) know about the gut microbiome & IBD

  • Are these changes cause or effect of the disease?

  • Can we manipulate these specific strains to improve the disease and if so how?

  • Does doing this impact medication efficacy?

  • And lots of other questions!


So, should you buy a gut microbiome test? Not just yet.

We need more research and understanding of the role of the microbiome and specific species in IBD before functional stool testing can be useful in guiding specific treatment and dietary support in IBD, over an above what we would already recommend to IBD patients to support gut health.

In fact, gut microbiome stool testing - even in the healthy individual - is still in its infancy, and the science just isn’t there yet to guide personalised advice.


But, what can you do to support your gut microbes?

Save your money and stick with what is evidence-based:

  • Mediterranean diet (adapted for IBD stage)

  • Prebiotic fibres

  • Polyphenol-rich foods

  • Work with an IBD specialist nutrition professional to guide you as to whats right for you.


If you would like support with your IBD, we can help you.

We are a nutrition and dietetics clinic specialising providing exceptional care to improve the quality of life of people living with IBD. We bring clarity around food and IBD and remove uncertainty and fear around food.

Our IBD specialist Nutritionist (Clemmie) and specialist gastroenterology and IBD Dietician (Jess) both have IBD too so ‘get it’ and are so passionate about helping others with IBD.

If you would like support with your IBD, please book your first consultation or a free enquiry call using the button below. We look forward to working with you.

Disclaimer: All content found on the nalmclinic.com website, including: text, video, or other formats have been created for informational purposes only. The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor, consultant or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.

We are all wonderfully unique and what works for one person may not work for another so please seek help and advice before changing your diet to work out the right way forward for you.

Clemmie Macpherson