Gut Microbiome Testing Australia
In short: Microba gut microbiome tests are ordered through a practitioner, not off a shelf.
You post a single stool sample, and a few weeks later you get a report on the bacteria living in your gut and what they appear to be doing.
There are three levels: Essentials, Extended and Comprehensive. Which one suits you depends on your symptoms and what has already been ruled out.
A microbiome report can provide useful information, but knowing what to do with it is what matters.
Going through it with a nutritionist who works with these reports regularly can help turn the findings into two or three practical steps you can take.
Clinical Nutritionist’s Perspective
“A microbiome report can provide useful information about your gut ecosystem, but more data does not automatically mean better care. The most valuable findings are those interpreted carefully in the context of your symptoms, dietary intake, medical history and individual goals.”
— Ola Krawczyk, Clinical Nutritionist
Compare Microba Microbiome Explorer Tests
Feature | Essentials | Extended | Comprehensive |
|---|---|---|---|
Current Price | $449 | $479 | $549 |
Microbiome composition | Included | Included | Included |
Diversity and richness | Included | Included | Included |
16 microbiome markers | Included | Included | Included |
7 GI markers | Not included | Included | Included |
18 pathogen markers | Not included | Not included | Included |
Referral required | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Interpretation | Booked separately* | Booked separately* | Booked separately* |
Suitable age | Adults 18+ | Adults 18+ | Adults 18+ |
Turnaround | 2–4 weeks** | 2–4 weeks** | 2–4 weeks** |
*Microbiome report interpretation is booked separately unless specifically included in a program, package or promotional offer.
**Turnaround time is approximately 2–4 weeks after the sample is received for processing and may vary.
In short: A microbiome report on its own is a long list of names. What changes anything is what you do with it.
Ola is a Microba Certified Nutritionist and reads these reports every week. Microbiome Report Interpretation turns your results into two or three practical nutrition priorities, shaped around your symptoms, your health history and what you actually eat.
Book a free 15 minute health assessment to work out which test suits you, or book report interpretation if you already have your results.
Choose Your Microbiome Test
Which Microbiome Test Is Right for Me?
The most comprehensive test is not automatically the most appropriate choice. The best option depends on your symptoms, health history and reason for testing.
Essentials may be suitable if you:
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Want an overview of your gut microbiome
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Want to understand microbial diversity and richness
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Are interested in selected microbial functions
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Do not currently require gastrointestinal physiology markers or pathogen screening
Extended may be suitable if you:
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Experience ongoing digestive discomfort or changing bowel habits
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Want microbiome profiling together with gastrointestinal physiology markers
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Want information about selected markers related to intestinal inflammation, digestive function and immune activity
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Do not currently require the pathogen-screening panel
Comprehensive may be suitable if:
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Digestive symptoms are persistent or complex
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Possible pathogen exposure is being investigated
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A practitioner considers pathogen screening relevant
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Microbiome, gastrointestinal physiology and pathogen information are required in one report
If you are uncertain which test to choose, contact Ola before purchasing.
Microbiome Report Interpretation
Microbiome reports contain detailed information about microbial composition, diversity, functional potential and, depending on the selected test, gastrointestinal physiology or pathogen markers.
Professional interpretation is booked separately unless it is specifically included in a program, package or promotional offer.
During your consultation, the most relevant findings are reviewed alongside your symptoms, diet and health history. You may receive personalised guidance around fibre, plant diversity, prebiotic foods, polyphenol-rich foods, meal structure and other nutrition strategies appropriate to your individual needs.
Microbiome Report Interpretation Consultation: $160 | 60 minutes | Online Australia-wide
Important Information
Gut microbiome testing is not a substitute for medical assessment, diagnosis or treatment.
Microbiome results should be interpreted by a suitably trained healthcare practitioner alongside symptoms, medical history, diet, lifestyle and relevant pathology. The microbiome component of Microbiome Explorer does not independently diagnose, treat, cure or prevent a medical condition.
Seek prompt medical assessment for rectal bleeding, unexplained weight loss, black stools, persistent vomiting, fever, severe or worsening abdominal pain, anaemia or a significant change in bowel habits.