Does Viome Work?

Unsure if the Viome Gut Intelligence test is right for you? Here we answer some of the most common questions about this microbiome-testing kit.

If you're like us, you're always looking for ways to improve your health, which is why we're happy to say that we've recently discovered Viome and their at-home test kits! In this blog post, we will discuss what the Viome Gut Intelligence test is and the reasons it's such a valuable tool for improving your health. We'll also take a look at some of the supplements that Viome recommends and see how they can benefit you.

What is the Viome Gut Intelligence test kit?

The Viome Gut Intelligence test kit is a stool test that analyzes the microbes in your gut. This information is then used to make personalized supplement and food recommendations based on your specific needs. This means that you're not taking supplements that you don't need, and you're also not missing out on any nutrients that could be beneficial to you.

Note: It also means that you're taking the supplements that you specifically need, so if your significant other swipes your probiotic formula and mixes it into their drink, they might find out they've taken something that is not the most helpful to their microbiome (let the bloating commence)!

How is the Viome Gut Intelligence test performed?

The Viome Gut Intelligence test is a simple at-home test that you can do in just a few minutes. All you need to do is collect a small sample of your stool (don't worry, somehow they make it feel less gross than you'd imagine). Now, depending on addons (you may opt to also take Viome's Health Intelligence Test or Full Body Health Test to get a better idea of what you're dealing with), you'll need to draw a tiny amount of blood (but this can be done easily with a finger-prick test) and gather your saliva. Then, simply seal everything up and send it in.

You'll also want to spend some time filling out the questionnaire in the app, which includes some basic questions on your current situation, health goals, and measurements--and yes, before you ask, Viome provides the measuring tape, which is great because taking those measurements really helps to quantify any progress you may make after implementing their suggestions.

Will Viome diagnose me?

Your Viome results will show you which microbes are present in your gut, and how they're balanced (or imbalanced). While this information cannot be used to diagnose gut health issues you may have (e.g., SIBO, leaky gut, etc.), it can identify the microbes by name that do reside in your gut. And that's important because, without the correct microbes in your gut, you may not be able to properly digest your food and absorb the nutrients you need.

What other types of data can Viome provide?

In addition to identifying which microbes are in your gut, Viome will also provide you with information on the function of those microbes. For example, some microbes are responsible for breaking down fiber, while others produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) that help to support a healthy gut lining.

If you take the blood test (aka Viome's Health Intelligence Test), you'll also receive information on markers related to inflammation, immune function, and nutrient deficiencies. And if you take the oral health test (featured as part of the Full Body Health Test), you'll be provided with information on the microbes that are present in your mouth and their potential role in gum disease. Be sure to check out the main product page to view all of their offerings and what they entail.

How Important are Viome's Food Recommendations?

The food recommendations are an important part of the Viome Gut Intelligence test, and they are based on the microbes that are present in your gut at the time of taking the test. Eating foods on the "Enjoy" list will help to increase the number of beneficial microbes in your gut, while avoiding foods on the "Limit" or "Avoid" list will help to decrease the number of harmful microbes.

Of course, you're not going to be able to avoid all the foods on the "Limit" or "Avoid" list all the time, and that's okay. Just try to limit them as much as possible, and be sure to eat plenty of the foods on the "Enjoy" list to keep your gut healthy and happy.

Are all super foods created equal?

Personalized Results - The Avoid List

As you may have guessed, not all superfoods are created equal. In fact, some of them may do more harm than good. For example, many so-called "healthy" foods like spinach are very high in oxalates, which can damage the gut lining and lead to leaky gut. So if your microbiome does not house microbes that can sufficiently tackle the oxalates coming in from your diet, they will remain in your gut and continue to cause damage.

When testing, we noticed that things like grass-fed beef, cauliflower, and pistachios made the "Avoid" list (see Personalized Results - The Avoid List). You will find if you select any option in the list, you will be informed why. In our case, the following output was rendered for Cauliflower:

The analysis of your data indicates foods high in certain type of fiber or sugar may be overfermenting in your microbiome contributing to discomfort. Temporarily removing cauliflower from your diet may improve the way you feel. Adding foods back on a structured schedule will allow you to determine which foods are best for you and your microbiome.

Looking further down the page, a list of scientific studies correlated with the findings appears.

Can all the healthy microbes I need come from my diet?

It is highly unlikely that you can get all the healthy microbes you need from the standard American diet alone. Most people's diets are woefully lacking in the variety of healthy microbes needed for optimal gut health. This is one of the reasons why Viome's probiotics and other supplements are so important--they help to fill in the gaps in your diet and provide your gut with the healthy microbes it needs to function properly.

What types of Supplements does Viome offer?

Viome offers a variety of customized supplements, including probiotics, prebiotics, enzymes, and more. Probiotics are live bacteria that help to increase the number of healthy microbes in your gut, while prebiotics are non-digestible fibers that help to feed the healthy microbes already present in your gut. Enzymes help to break down the food you eat so that your body can more easily absorb the nutrients.

Will Viome cure me?

Viome cannot present you with a magic pill. However, the information they provide can be used to make dietary and lifestyle changes that may help to improve your gut health. Additionally, the probiotics, prebiotics, enzymes, and other supplements they offer can help to fill in the gaps in your diet and provide your gut with the healthy microbes it needs to function properly.

What is the benefit of testing at home?

One of the benefits of testing at home is that you can do it in the comfort of your own bathroom. No need to undress or be poked and prodded by a doctor! With Viome's Gut Intelligence test, there's no need to take off work, drive across town, or sit in a waiting room. Another benefit is that it is a relatively quick and easy process. Simply collect a sample of your bodily fluids and send it off to the Viome labs. Within a few weeks, you will have your results and can begin working on improving your gut health.

How will I feel after implementing Viome's recommendations?

The goal of Viome is to help you feel your best. After implementing their recommendations, many people report feeling more energetic, less bloated, and more regular. However, everyone is different, and your results may vary. If you're looking for a way to improve your gut health, Viome's Gut Intelligence test kit and supplements may be a good place to start.

Is Viome worth the price?

The Viome test kit is definitely worth the price. Considering all the information you get from the test, as well as the customized supplement recommendations, it is a small price to pay for optimal gut health. Plus, the Viome team is always available to answer any questions you may have about your results or how to best improve your gut health.

So if you're interested in learning more about your gut health and how to improve it, we recommend giving Viome a try. Your gut will thank you!