Microbiome test: for whom and how does it work?

Last updated: 10-4-2025

On this page, we discuss the following topics:

• Why would you take a microbiome test?
• How does the microbiome test work?
• What is the process of the test for you in practice?
• What do you learn from the results?

Why would you take a microbiome test?

If you often suffer from things like:

• a bloated feeling
• constipation or diarrhea
• rumbling intestines
• abdominal pain or cramps
• gas
• and/or fatigue

this could possibly be related to the composition of the bacteria in your intestines. Your gut microbiome has a significant impact on your health. Gut bacteria help with digestion, vitamin production, and the functioning of your immune system. Furthermore, the gut microbiome is connected to your brain (via the vagus nerve), influencing your feeling of satiety and mood. If you've been experiencing (above-mentioned) gut issues for a while and can't find a clear cause, a microbiome test could provide insight into the composition of your gut microbiome: we provide you with a detailed report of the bacterial composition, along with practical tips for nutrition and lifestyle changes to improve your gut health.
It could also be that you're simply curious about your gut health and the bacteria in your intestines. Many of our clients don't have specific (gut) complaints but still want to know if their microbiome is healthy – also considering healthy aging. In that case, a test is also suitable!

How does the microbiome test work?

Our microbiome test measures which bacteria live in your intestines and in what quantity. Microbiome tests from other providers, on the other hand, sometimes only measure one or a few types of bacteria – these tests are often cheaper. But to get a complete picture, it's important to identify *all* the bacteria. The balance (ratio) between different types tells us a lot about your gut health.
MyMicroZoo uses the 16S rRNA gene sequencing analysis. This is a reliable method to identify all bacteria based on their genetic material.
The 16S rRNA gene is present in all bacteria, but each bacterial species has an extra unique segment. This unique segment allows us to precisely determine which bacteria live in your gut and in what quantities.

Quality and Reliability

The 16S rRNA gene sequencing analysis is carried out by experienced laboratory technicians in a certified laboratory. This laboratory meets the ISO 27001 and ISO 17025:2017 standards.
An ISO certification (or IEC certification) is an international recognition that an organization (in this case, a laboratory) operates according to established quality and safety rules. There are different ISO standards, each with a different meaning.
Our lab has the following certifications:

• ISO 27001 is a standard for information security: the laboratory ensures that sensitive data is well protected from loss, theft, or misuse.
• ISO 17025 is a standard specifically for laboratories. It proves that a laboratory is technically competent and provides reliable (consistent and accurate) test results. 

We follow the highest standards to guarantee a reliable result. Our laboratory has over 30 years of experience with the most advanced techniques for studying bacterial DNA.

In the laboratory, technicians process your stool sample using PCR and sequencing techniques. This allows them to identify all the bacteria living in your gut. We then compile a list of all these bacteria. In the results report, we organize this information in an easy-to-understand manner.

What is the process of the test for you in practice?

We are happy to explain to you how the test works in practice:

1. Order: place your order online. Within a few days, you will receive a test kit with all the necessary materials by mail.
2. Collect sample: use the provided materials to collect a small amount of stool. This is hygienic and simple.
3. Send back: send your sample back to our laboratory in the return envelope.
4. Analysis: our technicians analyze your sample using techniques such as PCR and sequencing.
5. Questionnaire: once we have received your test sample, you will receive a link to an online questionnaire. Fill it out truthfully, so that we can indicate in the results report which of your eating and lifestyle habits support a healthy microbiome and which do not.
6. Receive results: after about four weeks, you will receive a code to log in to your personal online report.
7. Discuss the results with a dietitian (optional): you can get help understanding the report, for example, to better comprehend the content or apply the tips to your diet and lifestyle. If you experience gut issues, we recommend consulting a dietitian.

What do you learn from the results?

You will receive a clear and organized report tailored to your microbiome. It contains information about:

• The composition of your microbiome: an overview of all the bacteria living in your gut, including their ratios (in percentages).
• The diversity of your microbiome: a score that indicates the variation in bacteria. The more variation, the better it is for your gut.
• Beneficial bacterial species: an explanation of which beneficial (desired) bacteria are present in your gut, why they are important, and how you can promote their growth.
• Bacteria that may cause issues: an explanation of bacteria that could be linked to your complaints. These could be pathogens, or even beneficial bacteria present in excessive amounts.

For each of these scores, we also provide:

• Personal scores indicating the balance between beneficial and undesirable (harmful) bacteria.
• Dietary advice: personal and practical tips to improve your gut health through nutrition.
• Lifestyle advice: personal and practical tips to support your dietary habits.

On this page we explain in more detail what you can expect from the report.

It is currently not possible to get a microbiome test through a (family) doctor or have it reimbursed. The test is not a medical diagnosis but can provide valuable information to work on better gut health (together with a dietitian). On this page, you will find an overview of certified specialists who can help you interpret your results or apply the dietary and lifestyle tips. Depending on your health insurance, a consultation with a dietitian might be reimbursed.

Want to learn more about the role of your microbiome in your health? The results of the test can help you look more closely at potential causes of your complaints and make conscious choices for your well-being. Order the test kit here.