Key Features to Look For:
- Sample Preservation: Ensures bacteria remain intact during shipping.
- Ease of Use: Clear instructions and tools for hygienic collection.
- Compatibility: Works with specific lab testing methods.
- Safety: Leak-proof containers and biohazard labeling.
- Collection Method: Comprehensive sampling for better accuracy.
- Certifications: CLIA or CAP standards for reliability.
- Cost: Ranges from under $100 to several hundred dollars.
- Turnaround Time: Results can take from a few days to weeks.
Highlighted Kits:
- Thryve Gut Health Test Kit: Offers dietary advice and custom probiotics for $199.
- Viome Gut Intelligence Test: Uses RNA-based analysis for detailed insights.
- Everlywell Gut Health Test: Measures food sensitivities starting at $199.
- Genova Diagnostics GI Effects®: Provides advanced gut health markers with detailed analysis.
- Biohm Gut Test: Focuses on both bacteria and fungi using dual-sequencing.
- uBiome Explorer Kit: Once a budget-friendly option, now discontinued.
- Begin Rebirth RE-1™: A synbiotic supplement that complements microbiome testing.
Quick Comparison
| Kit | Price | Preservation | Analysis Type | Shipping | Unique Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thryve Gut Health Test | $199 | Color-changing solution | DNA sequencing | Prepaid mailer | Custom probiotics |
| Viome Gut Intelligence | Varies | RNA preservative | RNA sequencing | Secure shipping | Tracks microbial activity |
| Everlywell Gut Test | $199+ | Dry preservation | IgG food sensitivity | Prepaid return | Focus on food sensitivities |
| Genova Diagnostics GI | Varies | PCR & MALDI-TOF MS | 16S rRNA & whole genome | Overnight FedEx | Advanced gut health markers |
| Biohm Gut Test | Varies | Swab-based collection | 16S & ITS rRNA sequencing | Prepaid mailer | Analyzes bacteria & fungi |
| uBiome Explorer Kit | $89 | Stabilizing liquid | DNA sequencing | Discontinued | Budget-friendly (no longer available) |
| Begin Rebirth RE-1™ | Varies | Lyosublime™ system | N/A (Supplement) | N/A | Synbiotic blend for gut balance |
Choosing the right kit depends on your goals - whether you want dietary advice, advanced microbial analysis, or support for microbiome balance. Each kit offers unique features to match different needs.
Genova Diagnostics 1-day Stool Collection
How to Choose Stool Collection Kits
Selecting the right stool collection kit is crucial for preserving the integrity of your microbiome sample. Here's a breakdown of the most important factors to consider when choosing a kit that aligns with your testing needs and preferences.
Sample preservation is a top priority. To ensure accurate microbiome analysis, your sample must remain stable from collection to lab processing. High-quality kits include stabilizing solutions or preservatives that prevent bacterial degradation and protect DNA and RNA during shipping and storage. For instance, some kits use specialized buffer solutions that keep samples stable at room temperature for several days, reducing the risk of compromised results.
Ease of use plays a big role in ensuring accurate sample collection. Kits with clear instructions, simple steps, and hygienic tools make the process more user-friendly. Look for kits that include tools like collection paper or containers that fit over the toilet, along with swabs or scoops for transferring the sample. These features minimize mess and confusion, reducing the likelihood of errors during collection.
Compatibility with testing platforms is another important consideration. Different labs use various analysis methods, such as 16S rRNA sequencing, whole genome sequencing, or metatranscriptomics. Some kits are designed to work exclusively with their own platforms, while others offer broader compatibility. Choosing the wrong kit could result in unusable samples or incomplete data, wasting time and money.
Safety features ensure that samples are handled securely during shipping and storage. Look for kits with leak-proof containers, tamper-evident seals, and proper biohazard labeling to minimize exposure to pathogens. For example, Zymo Research kits include reagents that neutralize infectious agents, providing added safety for both the user and lab staff. Many kits also come with pre-paid, insulated mailers to maintain sample integrity and comply with postal regulations.
Collection method impacts the quality of your results. Swab-based collection may only capture surface microbes, which can lead to contamination from skin bacteria. On the other hand, scooping from multiple areas of the stool provides a more comprehensive representation of your gut microbiome. Since gut bacteria are unevenly distributed, collecting samples from different sections is key for a thorough analysis.
Regulatory certifications can indicate the reliability of a kit. Look for certifications like CLIA or CAP, which reflect adherence to high laboratory standards. Some kits also have FDA Breakthrough Device designation, which can enhance their credibility and may even make them eligible for insurance reimbursement.
Cost considerations vary widely, with prices ranging from under $100 to several hundred dollars depending on the features and depth of analysis. Kits with FDA Breakthrough Device approval may offer the added benefit of potential insurance coverage, helping offset costs.
Turnaround time is another factor to keep in mind. Results can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks. While faster results are often preferred, they should not come at the expense of accuracy or data quality. Some premium kits offer expedited processing for an additional fee, allowing you to prioritize speed if needed.
Balancing these factors - preservation, ease of use, compatibility, safety, collection method, certifications, cost, and timing - will help you choose a stool collection kit that meets your specific health goals and budget. The right choice depends on what matters most to you.
1. Begin Rebirth RE-1™
Begin Rebirth RE-1™ is a gut health supplement designed to rebuild and support your microbiome with a powerful 3-in-1 formula that combines prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics. Unlike stool collection kits that simply analyze your gut bacteria, RE-1™ actively works to restore balance to your microbiome.
Each serving delivers an impressive 500 billion CFU through its Lyosublime™ system, ensuring optimal absorption without requiring refrigeration. This innovative approach makes it stand out from traditional gut health solutions.
Advanced Sample Preservation Technology
The Lyosublime™ system in RE-1™ ensures the viability of its Human Origin Strains (HOSt®) without relying on conventional preservatives. Each sachet provides 4.5g of fiber sourced from Galactooligosaccharide (GOS) and Inulin, which promote the growth of beneficial bacteria. Manufactured in Japan using advanced stabilization techniques, the formula remains effective at room temperature, eliminating concerns about potency loss during shipping or storage. This stable delivery method also makes it a great addition to microbiome testing routines.
Works Alongside Microbiome Testing
RE-1™ doesn’t just improve gut health - it pairs seamlessly with microbiome testing. Clinical studies reveal that 94% of users experienced reduced bloating and abdominal discomfort within 7 days, and 87% reported fewer allergies and recurring infections. The HOSt® strains, derived from healthy human microbiomes, help restore balance to your gut, offering measurable results that can be tracked through follow-up testing.
Safe and Convenient for All
RE-1™ is crafted with a strict allergen-free formula. It’s vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free, and non-GMO, with no artificial preservatives. Additionally, it avoids common allergens like nuts, shellfish, sesame, corn, and sugar. Packaged in individually sealed sachets, it stays potent during transit and doesn’t require refrigeration. Japanese manufacturing standards ensure consistent quality and safety.
Ideal for DNA or RNA Sequencing
Although RE-1™ isn’t a stool collection kit, its targeted 7-day reset protocol is a perfect complement to microbiome analysis. By helping restore microbial balance, it allows for clear before-and-after comparisons using DNA- or RNA-based sequencing techniques. This makes it an excellent partner for anyone tracking their microbiome health journey.
2. Thryve Gut Health Test Kit
The Thryve Gut Health Test Kit offers a detailed look into your microbiome, combining advanced analysis with tailored dietary advice and custom probiotic supplements - all for $199. This kit provides a thorough breakdown of your gut's bacterial makeup while employing cutting-edge technology to maintain sample quality from start to finish.
Sample Preservation Technology
Thryve uses a unique color-changing preservative that ensures the integrity of your sample for up to 21 days at room temperature. To collect your sample, simply use the provided swab and place it into the preservative, which changes color to confirm proper collection.
Microbiome Testing and Insights
Thryve's platform analyzes over 10,000 bacterial species using next-generation sequencing. The results offer insights into how your gut health impacts areas such as mood, digestion, skin, and energy levels. With more than 5,000 samples analyzed to date, their process is designed to provide precise results that are easy to understand, even for those without a scientific background. Personalized reports include dietary recommendations tailored to the unique bacterial profiles found in your gut.
Safe and Convenient Shipping
The kit includes sterile swabs, a preservative vial, and a pre-paid return envelope, making the shipping process simple and secure.
Advanced Sequencing Technology
Thryve employs next-generation sequencing technology to deliver an in-depth analysis of your gut's bacterial composition. Based on your results, the platform creates custom probiotic formulations, offering a personalized approach to improving gut health.
3. Viome Gut Intelligence Test
Viome has carved a niche for itself among stool collection kits with its RNA-based metatranscriptomic technology. This approach goes beyond traditional DNA analysis to provide insights into microbial activity, enabling more specific dietary and supplement recommendations.
Sample Preservation Technology
The Viome kit comes with a specially designed RNA preservative in the collection tube, which also contains sterile glass beads. Once you've collected your sample, shaking the tube ensures the preservative mixes thoroughly with the sample. This solution is a game-changer - it keeps the RNA stable for up to 28 days at room temperature, making it ideal for shipping times that can vary from one to twelve days. Thanks to this preservation method, the RNA remains intact during transit without the need for refrigeration, ensuring accurate results.
Focus on RNA Sequencing
While most microbiome tests focus on DNA analysis, Viome takes a different route with metatranscriptomics. This RNA sequencing method offers a detailed view of active microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, archaea, yeast, fungi, and eukaryotes, across 400 biological pathways. This comprehensive analysis allows Viome to tailor dietary and supplement recommendations to individual needs. In fact, published studies show that people following Viome's guidance have seen over a 30% improvement in clinical scores for conditions like IBS, depression, anxiety, and diabetes.
Safe and Convenient Shipping
Viome prioritizes simplicity and security in the shipping process. The kit includes a sample tube with preservative, a sturdy safety bag, and a prepaid mailing envelope for U.S. customers. Samples are shipped at room temperature in a sealed bag that includes an absorbent pad for added safety.
Once received, samples are processed in a CLIA-certified lab to ensure high-quality results. Viome also takes data privacy seriously, using multiple layers of encryption to separate personal information from health data, ensuring your information stays secure throughout the process.
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4. uBiome Explorer Kit
The uBiome Explorer Kit was once a popular option for microbiome testing, widely used by both researchers and consumers. Priced at $89, it provided an accessible way to explore gut microbiome health. Here’s a closer look at how its design supported reliable DNA sequencing.
Sample Preservation Technology
The kit included a straightforward preservation system to keep samples intact during shipping. At its core was a vial containing a stabilizing liquid that safeguarded the sample in transit. The collection process was simple: instead of requiring a direct stool sample, users swiped used toilet paper with the provided cotton swab and then placed the swab into the stabilizing liquid. This design made the process less invasive and more user-friendly.
Safety and Shipping Features
To ensure secure handling, uBiome implemented a multi-layer packaging system. Once users capped the vial, they were instructed to shake it to mix the sample with the preservation liquid. The sealed vial was then placed into a padded shipping envelope, offering extra protection against leaks or damage. Importantly, the kit was designed for room-temperature shipping, eliminating the need for refrigeration or special handling.
Designed for DNA Sequencing
The uBiome Explorer Kit utilized the company’s precision sequencing™ platform, which combined full metagenomic and marker-based sequencing technologies. This advanced approach allowed for the detection of a wide range of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and archaea. For those seeking even deeper insights, the ExplorerPlus version provided a more detailed analysis of the microbiome ecosystem through DNA sequencing.
Note: uBiome ceased operations after filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, following concerns about its accounting practices and methodologies.
5. Everlywell Gut Health Test
The Everlywell Gut Health Test offers a convenient way to check your digestive health from the comfort of home. Prices start at $199 for the Food Sensitivity Test and $299 for the Food Sensitivity Comprehensive Test. This test measures IgG antibody responses to various foods, helping pinpoint potential dietary factors that might impact your gut health. The company’s careful sample handling and shipping practices add to its credibility.
Sample Preservation Technology
Everlywell uses a dry preservation method for samples. You’ll apply your sample to a card, let it air-dry, and then ship it. Once the sample reaches the lab, it’s rehydrated to ensure its quality is intact. This method ensures the sample remains stable at room temperature during transit.
Safety and Shipping Requirements
Each kit includes a prepaid return label and clear instructions for packaging. Samples are placed in a biohazard bag, and you’ll need to note the collection date and your name on the card. Once the samples arrive at the lab, they’re checked for any damage. If there’s an issue, Everlywell’s customer service team will send a replacement kit. Processed samples are stored for 7 to 30 days in case retesting is needed.
Compatibility with Microbiome Testing Platforms
Everlywell partners with CLIA-certified U.S. laboratories to ensure dependable results. After registering your test, you can track its progress from the moment you collect your sample to when results are delivered.
6. Genova Diagnostics GI Effects® Comprehensive Profile
The Genova Diagnostics GI Effects® Comprehensive Profile provides a thorough look into digestive health, inflammation markers, and microbial balance. It goes beyond standard microbiome testing to deliver a detailed understanding of your gut's ecosystem.
Sample Preservation Technology
This test kit is designed with a strong focus on preserving sample quality. Genova Diagnostics employs a combination of PCR, culture, and microscopy to ensure comprehensive analysis. For identifying and quantifying gut bacteria, it uses the 16S rRNA gene polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) technique. Additionally, for bacterial and fungal identification, the lab relies on MALDI-TOF MS technology, which maintains sample integrity and can accurately identify over 28,000 microbial species [38,40].
Compatibility with Microbiome Testing Platforms
The kit integrates advanced sequencing technologies for a more detailed analysis. It combines 16S rRNA gene PCR with next-generation sequencing, and for those seeking even deeper insights, there’s an optional Microbiomix add-on. This add-on employs shotgun sequencing (whole genome sequencing), considered the gold standard for studying gut microbiota. It examines your microbiome's genetic potential, including the production of metabolites like hexa-LPS, TMA, histamine, vitamins, branched-chain amino acids, urease, GABA, and hydrogen sulfide. Genova’s platform also identifies at least 25% more DNA compared to other metagenomic classifiers [38,40].
Safety and Shipping Requirements
The kit includes biohazard bags for sample tubes and comes with a prepaid FedEx shipping label for overnight delivery. To ensure accuracy, samples should be shipped within 24 hours of collection on weekdays using FedEx overnight services. Store your samples in the refrigerator until they are ready for shipping, but avoid freezing them. Use a FedEx location or schedule a pickup instead of using drop boxes. It's important to avoid sample collection during menstruation or if you have actively bleeding hemorrhoids, as these conditions can impact test results.
Suitability for DNA Sequencing Applications
This kit supports advanced DNA sequencing methods alongside traditional culture techniques for precise gut microbiota analysis. The optional Microbiomix platform, with its shotgun sequencing capabilities, delivers comprehensive genomic insights, making it one of the most detailed DNA-based microbiome testing options available. By combining traditional and advanced approaches, the test ensures a reliable and thorough microbiome evaluation.
7. Biohm Gut Test
The Biohm Gut Test takes a unique approach by analyzing both bacterial and fungal species, giving you a broader look at your gut ecosystem compared to other stool collection tests mentioned earlier.
Sample Collection and Preservation
This test uses a straightforward swab-based system. You simply swipe the provided swab on used toilet paper until it's fully coated, then place it into a specially designed collection tube. Once secured, the tube is placed in a clear bag and prepaid mailer for shipment. When the sample arrives at the lab, it undergoes a quality check to ensure there’s enough material for accurate testing.
Advanced Microbiome Testing Technology
Biohm employs 16S and ITS rRNA sequencing, which are industry-standard methods for analyzing both bacteria and fungi. With thousands of consumer tests completed, the platform relies on validated methods that have been featured in over 100 research studies. Their lab follows a meticulous seven-step process:
- Quality Control
- DNA Extraction
- PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction)
- Library Preparation
- Sequencing
- Report Generation
- Wellness Recommendations
This structured approach ensures consistent, reliable results across all samples. Using next-generation sequencing, Biohm can identify tens of thousands of bacterial and fungal species, offering a deeper analysis than tests focused solely on bacteria. The combination of detailed sequencing and a reliable shipping process ensures dependable outcomes.
Secure Shipping and Safety Measures
The test kit includes everything you need for safe sample collection and transport. Samples are only processed after they arrive at the lab, where DNA extraction occurs in a controlled environment to maintain sample integrity.
Dual-Sequencing for Comprehensive Insights
Biohm’s ability to extract DNA for genetic analysis provides detailed insights into both bacterial and fungal populations. Its dual-sequencing method - using both 16S and ITS rRNA techniques - makes it a powerful tool for understanding the complexity of your gut microbiome. On top of that, the platform prioritizes data security with measures like multifactor authentication, ensuring your genetic information stays protected throughout the analysis.
Conclusion
The seven microbiome testing kits we reviewed highlight a variety of methods for analyzing gut health. Choosing the right stool kit is essential for obtaining reliable insights into your microbiome. These kits range from whole genome sequencing to those that analyze both bacterial and fungal populations, catering to different health needs.
To get the most out of your test, it’s important to pick a kit that aligns with your goals. Whether you're seeking basic wellness insights or a deep dive into strain-level data for targeted interventions, there’s a kit designed for you. Validated preservation methods are especially important - they ensure your sample stays stable during shipping, preventing contamination or degradation that could compromise results.
Advances in sequencing technology now allow for a detailed view of your gut's ecosystem. This level of analysis provides tailored recommendations for diet, lifestyle, and supplements, helping you make informed decisions about your health. Instead of just listing microbes, many kits now offer actionable insights like personalized nutrition plans, probiotic suggestions, and lifestyle changes based on your unique microbiome profile. These practical features turn raw data into meaningful steps toward better gut health.
While prices vary, the value lies in the long-term benefits these tests bring to your health journey. Each kit’s unique features allow you to make decisions that are specific to your microbiome.
For accurate results, it’s crucial to follow the collection instructions carefully. Sampling multiple areas and avoiding contamination will help ensure the test's reliability.
Once you receive your results, consider pairing them with targeted interventions, such as Begin Rebirth RE-1™, a synbiotic blend designed to support microbiome balance.
FAQs
What should I look for in a stool collection kit for microbiome testing?
When picking a stool collection kit for microbiome testing, prioritize ease of use. The collection process should be straightforward and hygienic, so you're not left feeling uneasy. Kits with features like sample stabilization are a big plus - they help preserve the microbial sample during shipping and storage. Pre-paid shipping options can also save you time and hassle.
It's also important to select a kit with clear, easy-to-follow instructions. Make sure it's compatible with the microbiome testing service you're using to avoid any issues with your results. Some kits offer wipe-based or swab-based collection methods, which can make the process more comfortable and practical.
How do sample preservation methods affect the accuracy of microbiome testing?
The way a stool sample is preserved is key to getting accurate microbiome test results. Using proper methods - like freezing or solutions such as RNAlater - helps keep the microbial composition stable, even during extended storage. These approaches are excellent at minimizing changes in the microbial communities over time.
Other options, such as ethanol-based preservation, FTA cards, or specialized room-temperature kits, can also work but might slightly alter microbial diversity or abundance. Selecting the right preservation method is essential to keep the sample as close to its original state as possible, ensuring more reliable microbiome analysis.
Can microbiome test results guide dietary and lifestyle changes for better gut health?
Microbiome testing can shed light on the makeup of your gut bacteria, offering insights that might help you tweak your diet and lifestyle to promote better gut health. These tests can highlight imbalances or deficiencies in your gut microbiome, which could potentially be addressed with specific adjustments.
That said, it's worth keeping in mind that the scientific community hasn't yet agreed on what defines a 'healthy' microbiome. Because of this, microbiome testing should serve as a helpful guide, not the sole foundation for making health decisions. It's always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional to interpret the results and figure out the best course of action.