Purpose:
This test measures the abundance of bacteria in the gut to assess chronic inflammation of the intestines. Proper preparation ensures accurate results.

1. Timing and General Preparation

• Collect the sample only when you are not experiencing acute diarrhea (unless this is part of your symptoms).
• Avoid collecting during menstruation if possible.
• Ensure your stool sample is collected into the container provided.  Avoid urine or water contamination.
• Follow all collection and storage instructions provided.  The stool sample can be stored at room temperature for 14 days.

2. Antibiotics

• Avoid antibiotic use for at least 4 weeks before collecting your stool sample.
  • Antibiotics can significantly alter gut bacterial composition and suppress microbial growth, leading to misleading results.
  • If you have recently completed an antibiotic course, wait a minimum of 4 weeks before taking the test (preferably 6–8 weeks for accurate microbiome recovery).
• If antibiotic use is medically necessary and cannot be paused, inform your healthcare provider.   The test may still be performed, but results must be interpreted in that context.

3. Probiotics and Prebiotics

• Stop probiotic supplements at least 1 week before sample collection.
  • This helps ensure the test reflects your natural gut flora, not temporary changes from supplements.
• Prebiotics (fiber supplements like inulin, FOS, or resistant starch): ideally stop 3–5 days before testing.
• Fermented foods (e.g., yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi) can be continued unless directed otherwise, but avoid introducing new fermented foods right before testing.

4. Other Medications and Supplements

Some substances can influence gut flora and should be noted or paused if possible (always check with your doctor first):

Medication / Supplement	Recommendation	Notes
Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) (e.g., omeprazole)	Ideally stop 5–7 days prior	May alter bacterial diversity
Laxatives or stool softeners	Avoid 3 days prior	Can change stool consistency and bacterial recovery
Antifungal or antiparasitic drugs	Avoid for 2–4 weeks prior	Affect microbial balance
Herbal antimicrobials (e.g., oregano oil, berberine, garlic extracts)	Avoid for 2 weeks prior	May reduce bacterial load
Fiber supplements (psyllium, inulin, etc.)	Avoid for 3–5 days	Can alter bacterial abundance
Digestive enzymes	May be continued unless advised otherwise	Usually minimal impact

Record all recent medications and supplements and provide to healthcare provider.

5. Diet and Lifestyle Before Testing

• Maintain your usual diet for at least 3 days before collection (do not start a new diet).
• Stay hydrated but avoid alcohol 24 hours before the test.
• Avoid colon cleansing or enemas within 5 days of collection.

6. Sample Collection and Handling

See Dysbiosis Information Sheet for instructions.

7. Summary Checklist

✅ No antibiotics for 4+ weeks
✅ No probiotics for 1 week
✅ No herbal antimicrobials for 2 weeks
✅ Maintain usual diet
✅ Avoid laxatives, colon cleanses, and alcohol
✅ Record all medications and supplements