Microbiome testing

Start with a map of the gut.

A stool test gives a detailed snapshot of the bacteria in the gut, so a protocol can be built on data rather than guesswork.

Order the test · $199 How it works
Method
16S rRNA sequencing
Lab
CLIA-certified
Results
2 to 3 weeks
Plan
10 weeks, with a practitioner

Every gut is different.

Microbiome testing gives a detailed snapshot of the gut ecosystem, identifying imbalances, overgrowths or deficiencies that may be contributing to health challenges.

That data is what a Gut Balancing protocol is tailored to, so the formulas chosen answer what is actually there.

How it works

4 steps, all from home. Kits ship to and from US addresses only.

  1. 1

    Order your kit

    The Microbiome Stool Test arrives at your door with easy-to-follow collection instructions.

  2. 2

    Register the kit ID

    Before you send anything, register your kit ID at gutbalancing.org. The analysis cannot begin without it.

  3. 3

    Collect and ship

    Collect the sample at home and send it to the CLIA-certified lab with the prepaid USPS label in the box.

  4. 4

    Get your results

    Your report arrives in 2 to 3 weeks through a secure portal. Your practitioner releases the customized 10-week plan.

Read the full collection instructions

What the test shows, and what it does not

Knowing the limits of a test is part of reading it well.

It shows

  • The bacteria in the gut, read by 16S rRNA gene sequencing
  • Bacterial diversity, and beneficial and pathogenic species
  • Each microbe identified against several 16S databases in parallel, with reference ranges
  • Compounds of interest to shift the microbiome, in the report overview
  • A symptom survey that helps identify other areas of support

It does not measure

  • Fungi such as Candida. 16S sequencing reads bacterial DNA only
  • Intestinal permeability or inflammatory markers
  • Digestive enzyme activity
  • The small intestine. A stool sample reflects the colon, so it cannot diagnose SIBO

From results to a protocol

A practitioner turns the report into a plan

Customized suggestions are released through a practitioner access code, so they come with your history, age and diagnosis in view. Practitioners at The Balancing Network interpret the findings and choose the Researched Elements formulas that answer them.

Formulas such as these are often used in combination, based on individual results.

Need a practitioner? Email pipeline@researchedelements.com

Ways to start

All through Gut Balancing, part of The Balancing Network.

  • Microbiome Stool Test

    $199

    Choose this if you already have a practitioner who knows this test and has access to the Gut Balancing model to interpret your results.

    Order the test

  • Stool Test with 10-Week Plan

    $269

    Choose this if you do not have a practitioner with access to the model, and you would like the report and your customized 10-week plan.

    Order test and plan

  • 10-Week Plan

    $99

    Choose this if you already have your results, you do not have a practitioner, and you would like to add the customized 10-week plan.

    Add the plan

Membership and disclosures

Microbiome testing services are facilitated through The Balancing Network PMA, not directly through Researched Elements Shop. Researched Elements supplements are available exclusively to PMA members. Questions? Email contact@researchedelements.com.

These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. For more information, visit www.gutbalancing.com.

Open original