Steps of the test
Step 01
Schedule your gut microbiome test.
Step 02
Receive the kit at your home address
Step 03
Collect your Stool Sample within 2 Days of receiving the kit
Step 04
Send the Stool Sample back
Got questions? Consult a Gut Expert
Book a consultation with Sova's Gut Health Expert and Chief Science Officer Max Kushnir. Get recommendations on your condition and which course of action is right for you.
Book a ConsultMeet Our Gut Experts
Max Kushnir
Co-Founder of Sova Health
Geneticist M.Sc. (Cancer Genomics)
Gargi Sareen
Certified Nutrition Scientist
BSc. Nutrition & Dietetics
Dr. Swaramya C
Medical Advisor
M.S. & M.B.B.S.
Obstetrics & Gynecology
Madhurima
Certified Nutrition Scientist
M. Sc. Clinical Nutrition
Sumaiyya
Certified Nutrition Scientist
M.Sc. nutrition and dietetics
Prerna Pant
Certified Nutrition Scientist
M.Sc. Foods and Nutrition
Mariyam
Certified Nutrition Scientist
M.Sc Nutrition and Dietetics
Mahima Madaan
Certified Nutrition Scientist
MSc Food and Nutrition
FAQs
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Can this test identify root causes for Food Intolerances? What is the connection between the Gut Microbiome and Food Intolerances & Allergies
Yes. The Gut Microbiome Test helps in identifying triggers that are causing allergies and intolerance or sensitivity related symptoms. Food intolerances are mostly caused due to gut imbalance and can be reversed. Food allergies and intolerances are different. If you’re allergic to a food, your immune system is triggered - you may experience Skin rashes, hives, itchiness, swelling or breathlessness. In a healthy gut, there will be beneficial bacteria to help us digest the food we eat. Most food Intolerances are caused by lack of these beneficial bacteria. Once the food is not digested properly, you may experience gas, Flatulence, burping, diarrhea and abdominal pain. If the correct bacteria are re- introduced to your gut, you can manage intolerances and have your favorite foods with discomfort. The Gut Microbiome Test tells you exactly which bacteria is missing in your gut, linking it to the food you may be intolerant to. Once you know the root cause of the intolerance, it can be easily fixed by reintroduction of that bacteria via supplements and diet.
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How long does it take to receive the Gut Microbiome Test Report?
It takes generally 4 weeks, from the day we receive the sample, to generate and share the report with you. Our care manager will share a PDF report via email and Whatsapp once it’s prepared.
Feel free to write to support@sova.health or Whatsapp us on +91 70420 28525 regarding any further queries. -
Should I be physically present at your lab at any time during this process?
No, we operate remotely, pan India and globally. Our test can be ordered online, and an easy-to-use sampling kit will be delivered to your address and picked up once the sample is ready. Please notify us once the sample is ready and we will arrange to pick up the kit from your address through our courier partner. And this whole logistics would be prepaid, and the cost is included in the test price.
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What sample is needed for the test?
Stool Sample. We need a small amount of stool sample, preferably collected in the morning during your first pass.
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How do I benefit from this test?
This test not only provides you with the current status of your gut health and disease risk analysis but extends beyond to provide you with personalized recommendations to improve your overall health. In summary we provide :-
-A snapshot of the intestinal microbiota.
-Pathogen and probiotic characterization.
-Qualitative disease risk estimates based on gut microbiota.
-Personalized and unique 3 phase nutritional recommendation based on gut microbiota.
-Personalized supplement [probiotic and prebiotic] recommendation based on gut microbiota.
The recommendations, if implemented, can significantly improve the general wellbeing and health, but may also aid in the management of specific diseases [Ex. IBD, IBS etc.] -
How is the Gut Mircobiome test different from a stool test or a blood test?
A Gut Microbiome Test focuses on analyzing the microorganisms in the gastrointestinal tract, providing crucial insights into the composition and diversity of the microbial community. This information is valuable for understanding the microbiome's potential impact on health, including digestion, immune function, and metabolism.
In contrast, a stool test can assess factors like blood, parasites, and substances, serving more as an elimination test to identify potential causes of specific conditions rather than pinpointing the root cause directly.
A Blood Test, designed to analyze blood components, takes a broad approach by examining red and white blood cells, hormones, nutrients, and markers of organ function. -
What does the Kit include?
The kit basically is a stool collection kit with a specialized tube containing a liquid, which is used to transport the sample without contamination and DNA degradation. Along with this all-other tools that are required to collect the sample viz., gloves, stool collection frame, protective bubble envelope with desiccant etc., will be included too. Clear instructions, with infographics about the collection process, and the relevant dos and don’ts will be sent to you along with the kit.
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I am already taking probiotics, should I take this test?
While probiotics are generally recognised as safe and beneficial, it's crucial to understand your individual need for them. Identifying your specific probiotic requirements involves determining which probiotic species or combination would best support your health. In some cases, you may not be taking probiotics containing species that are necessary for you. The Gut Microbiome Test offers insight into the probiotic species present in your gut, allowing you to tailor your probiotic intake to your specific needs. By identifying missing or low levels of particular species, this test helps you optimise your probiotic regimen for better gut health.
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I am taking antibiotics. Can I collect the sample?
No. Please collect the sample after you complete your antibiotic course [which is usually 3-5 days], wait for a couple of more days [total of a week], and then collect the sample. However, if your doctor/physician have asked you to take the test during the course, or you are on long term antibiotic medication for a chronic disease, then you can collect the sample without any wait.We request you highlight the consumption of any antibiotic if the sample is collected during or just after antibiotic consumption.
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I am already following a well-planned diet. Why should I take this test?
That’s great! However, is it personalised for you based on your microbiome? This personalisation is critical, since all the food you eat passes through the intestine where these microorganisms act on them, helping in overall digestion. Different microorganisms act on different foods to produce different metabolites, which might be good or bad for our health. Since our recommendations are based on your unique microbiome, its personalized to you.
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Is this a diagnostic test?
No!! It is a wellness test. The test would tell you about the current status of your gut health, impact of that on other health issues, and provide you with personalized dietary, probiotic, and prebiotic recommendations for significantly improving your wellness.
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Can this test help for Lactose Intolerance?
Most of Indians have some level of sensitivity to Dairy Products. This test helps you understand the microbiome imbalances causing Lactase intolerance and charters a path toward fixing it.
