What is Microbiome Testing and When Might I Need It?

If you’re battling persistent digestive issues, a gut imbalance could be to blame. Microbiome testing offers a personalized look at your body’s internal ecosystem, revealing potential causes and triggers. Here’s what you should know.

Do you ever feel like your gut has a mind of its own? In a way, it does. Your stomach and intestines are home to a complex community of microorganisms, including over 1,000 species of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, known as your gut microbiome.

When this internal ecosystem falls out of balance, it can manifest in a variety of ways, from mild discomfort to chronic digestive disorders like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

If you’re not sure what’s causing your uncomfortable gastric symptoms, Elemental Acupuncture can provide answers. Bethany Leddy, DACM, MSOM offers microbiome testing to get to the root of the issue.

By analyzing your unique microbiome, Dr. Leddy can pinpoint what’s going on in your gut and how to best support its natural balance with holistic treatments, including acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine.

Decoding your gut with microbiome testing

What exactly is microbiome testing? Essentially, it’s a way to get a detailed look at the microscopic organisms living in your gut. The test analyzes a stool sample to identify the various types of bacteria, fungi, and other microbes present.

The results provide valuable information about the diversity and balance of your microbiome. A healthy gut generally has a wide variety of microbial species.

Your test may also highlight specific strains of bacteria — some beneficial, and some that might be contributing to imbalances. It’s a personalized report that can offer valuable clues about your digestive (and overall) wellness.

When should you get a test?

If you’re struggling with recurring digestive issues, microbiome testing can help you understand what’s happening in your body. Consider testing if you’re dealing with symptoms like persistent bloating, cramping, gas, diarrhea, or constipation.

Gut imbalances may also manifest in more subtle ways, such as unexplained fatigue, mood changes, joint inflammation or skin issues. These symptoms can sometimes be linked to conditions like IBS, IBD, Crohn’s disease, or ulcerative colitis.

If you’re already making healthy changes but not seeing much improvement, this test can show you where to adjust. While microbiome testing isn’t a substitute for diagnosis, it can help identify potential triggers and contributing factors.

How to naturally support your gut health

At Elemental Acupuncture, we offer a range of natural, holistic options to support your gut health. Dr. Leddy can help you find what works best for you.

Acupuncture, for example, can gently restore balance to your digestive system. By stimulating the flow of vital energy (qi), this traditional Chinese practice can help regulate bowel movements, improve your digestion, and even ease bloating, cramps, and gas.

Dr. Leddy may also recommend specific herbal medicines and/or a personalized nutrition plan to target imbalances in your gut. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution for digestive disorders — each person’s microbiome is unique, and what works for someone else may not be right for you.

Are you ready to finally understand what your gut is telling you? Schedule an appointment today for microbiome testing at Elemental Acupuncture in Bryant Park, New York City, and Tuckahoe, New York, online or by phone.